Wiley Handbook of Science and Technology for Homeland Security, 4 Volume Set

EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING FOR DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS

LINDA WARREN

Launch Consulting, Richland, Washington

SANDRA DAVIS

ECO Resource Group, Bainbridge Island, Washington

CHRISTOPHER T. CYR

Critigen, Portland, Oregon

1 INTRODUCTION

Emergency response planning is designed to support operations during any type of emergency, and is built on the principles set forth in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the National Response Framework (NRF). Emergency Response Plans (ERPs), also known as emergency operations plans, serve as guidances for agencies and staff, should an incident occur. The ERP documents are required for water agencies by the Bioterrorism Act, and are suggested for any agency. A basic ERP should provide staff with procedures and contact information for use during potential emergency events for which the agency should prepare [particularly events identified as threats in the vulnerability assessment (VA)]. ERPs should be one part of an overall preparedness program that includes staff training, emergency exercises, business continuity planning, and yearly revisions. Such a program has the goal of utility resiliency. Any ERP should be consistent with other agency plans, as well as local ERPs, and should be developed in coordination with stakeholders.

1.1 Return on Investment for a Utility Preparedness Program

Preparedness planning and exercises can make even a major emergency more manageable and help speed recovery efforts. Utility emergency plans have been ...