Development

Successful Disaster Preparedness Involves Multiple Departments and Agencies

By William F. Vedra, Jr., Deputy City Administrator for the City of Grove City

Most residents will remember the EF1 tornado that struck Grove City April 3, 2018, with wind speeds estimated between 100 and 110 mph causing considerable damage to 900+ structures, leaving more than 700 customers without power and displacing multiple families. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries, and the community was met with an outpouring of support from neighboring communities, businesses and individuals.

The storm system had barely left the city limits when Grove City’s emergency response was activated, earning praise from the National Weather Service for speed, precision and preparation.

Maintaining that vigilance, in May 2022 multiple agencies came together to address a simulated severe weather event, requiring the mobilization of the Emergency Operations Centers of Grove City and the South-Western City School District (SWCSD). Five agencies, including Jackson, Pleasant and Prairie townships expertly managed the disaster from onset and rescue to damage assessment and recovery.

The functional exercise focused on implementing plans, policies and procedures; and included simulated scenarios to create opportunities for practicing specific functions in an emergency. Every department of the City is involved, from Police and Public Service to Information Services and Development.

In parallel with the May 5 training, SWCSD took the opportunity to implement a tiered, mass communications exercise, working with principals in all 31 buildings and coordinating with staff from around the district to test the efficacy of radio communications. “We are incredibly thankful for the City of Grove City and our partner agencies in helping the district see our on-paper scenarios played out in real time and in a safe environment,” said SWCSD Executive Director of Communications Evan Debo. “We find ourselves lucky to have such dedicated individuals across the board who make it a priority to keep this community safe.”

This is the third large-scale, crossagency functional exercise coordinated by the City since the disaster preparedness program began in 2016. Each is attended by highly qualified, third-party observers who provide comments and suggestions for potential improvements.

In attendance this spring was Dr. Donald Cooper, executive director for Event Safety Alliance, who has attended disaster training and safety planning events throughout the U.S. “The collaboration between the school system and the City is among the best examples of collaboration in the state and perhaps the country,” said Dr. Cooper.

Jeffrey Young, director of Franklin County Emergency Management and Homeland Security, agreed and shared praise for SWCSD’s marked improvements and superlative efforts. “This is a great example of local jurisdictions working to tackle [critical incidents] head on and create a more prepared and resilient community.” Part of disaster preparedness is staying aware of the various kinds of hazards and disasters; the other part is perfecting the communication that provides seamless action. Observer Jeff Warren, battalion chief for Norwich Township Fire Department, commented, “as the incident progressed, it was evident that their previous training had created a very clear and predictable flow of information. At times, it seemed effortless and automated.”

Southwest Franklin County is in good hands as Grove City continues its disaster preparedness program. Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps as well, including registering to receive emergency and event text alerts from the City of Grove City and Franklin County. Simply text the word GCALERT to 888777 to get started or visit alertfranklincounty.org for more information.

The Emergency Operations Center is fully engaged during a May 5 functional training exercise.

Grove City Police Sergeant Justin Gallo is joined by Jackson Township Battalion Chief Jason Burley, SWCSD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jamie Lusher and Grove City Director of Public Service Cindi Fitzpatrick as he addresses the crowd in a simulated press conference.