Joint Base trains for winter weather

Photo By Michelle Gordon | The Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was filled with leaders from throughout the installation Nov. 6 as they prepared for a mock winter storm headed for the National Capital Region.  

WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES

11.13.2014

Story by Michelle Gordon 

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling

WASHINGTON – The Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was filled with leaders from throughout the installation Nov. 6 as they prepared for a winter storm headed for the National Capital Region.

The mock storm was part of a tabletop exercise (TTX) coordinated by Emergency Manager Darryl Hart to ensure JBAB is ready for the coming winter season.

“Exercises like this prepare the base emergency support functions for severe weather threats,” said Hart. “We activate the EOC when a big storm occurs to support the agencies that have work do to around the base in the event of a tornado, a hurricane, or in this case, a winter storm.”

The TTX allowed JBAB support functions, such as public works, safety, police and fire departments, and Warfighter & Family Readiness (WFR), to talk through the steps their individual agencies would take during a snow emergency. It also provided an opportunity to evaluate and update their inclement weather continuity of operations procedures and standard operating procedures.

Comprised of three modules, the TTX focused on preparation, response and recovery. During each module, the support functions reviewed and discussed the steps taken during the different phases of a winter storm.

“The discussions allow us to capture lessons learned,” said JBAB Training and Readiness Officer Tim Trammell. “This is an opportunity for everybody to have a good discussion and ensure we’re all on the same page when it comes to preparation and response to winter storms, before we have our first snow on the ground.”

Throughout the exercise, mock weather updates were used to inform the EOC about current weather conditions to help solicit the appropriate responses and move the exercise forward.

Hart and Trammel served as evaluators and facilitators during the TTX. They listened to the discussions, provided feedback and encouraged the agencies to think through each scenario.

Throughout the TTX the subject matter experts discussed every step of a winter storm, from closing facilities early during the onset of the storm, to staffing the Furnari Restaurant and clearing roads during the storm, to recalling the JBAB staff once the storm has passed. However, according to Trammel, the most important step is the one that occurs before the first day of winter.

“Identifying the resources available and having those resources in place before the event happens is key. Communication is key,” he said. “Communicating and anticipating what might be needed is important before the EOC is activated, that’s why it’s called preparation.”

Hart echoes Trammel’s thoughts on preparedness. He said he doesn’t pay too much attention to the "Farmers' Almanac," but he’s confident the EOC is ready for any severe winter weather JBAB might encounter this year. He also strongly encourages preparation on an individual basis.

“People need to plan ahead for winter weather,” said Hart. “Keep a kit in the car in case you get stranded on the side of the road and have water, granola bars and a blanket to keep you warm until help arrives. At home, in the case of power outage, just have something set aside so you can stay safe and warm in case you lose power.”

• Date Taken: 11.13.2014
• Date Posted: 11.13.2014 15:41
• Story ID: 147765
• Location: WASHINGTON, DC, US