With funding support from the Delta Regional Authority, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Motorola Solutions Foundation, CUSEC recently completed a project to improve regional situational awareness and information sharing among its Member States. Based on previous exercises and real-world disasters, CUSEC identified shortcomings in regional information sharing and worked to address them during this project.
The primary intent of the project was to create a framework for sharing geographic information system (GIS) data between states through a “Regional Common Operating Picture” (RCOP). With the RCOP, CUSEC/DRA states now have a cloud-based solution for displaying near real-time status of critical and essential elements of information (EEIs) including transportation systems, power outages, shelter status, and more. Also, through a Safety Assessment App (SAP), new damage and safety assessment standards have been created that arm trained professionals with tools needed to quickly and accurately post safety status of critical facilities and residences following a disaster.
Technology infrastructure has also been improved to stimulate cross-border information sharing and cooperation for regional disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and severe storms. During the grant, more than 200 emergency managers and responders received training on new technology in GIS, safety assessment, and incident management software.
As evidenced in recent disasters and storms, the outcomes of the project, including the RCOP technology, have been immediately beneficial to state and local governments for response and recovery purposes. Because of the project, Member States will continue to improve life safety and reduce economic losses following disasters in this region.
CUSEC would like to thank the Delta Regional Authority, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Motorola Solutions Foundation, and the many individuals and organizations who worked to make this project possible.
