Once you have completed Module 1 of this course and are prepared to be an ESS responder, you can report to a call out with confidence knowing that your family, pet, home, and work needs have been met.
As an example, a typical apartment fire ESS call out is initiated by contact from the fire chief to the EPC or ESSD regarding the need to provide evacuees with food, clothing, and/or lodging for a specific length of time. The ESSD is alerted and briefed on the situation. Depending on the size of the incident, the ESSD or designate would call out ESS team members to assist with the response. The ESSD would remain in command, delegating authority to the ESS team, until all evacuees are cared for.
Depending on the method of call out your team has agreed upon, ESS responders may be contacted by:
- Telephone call
- Text message
- Community alert network message
- Commercial radio
If during a major disaster, communications are not available, predetermined ESS plans may include a pre-identified location for ESS responders to meet.