CERT Responder Magazine_Vol 2 Issue 3

Mission:

CERT Responder Magazine is dedicated to providing CERT and first responders with information and tools to assist communities in times of crisis, as well as offering a platform for responders to share their stories.

Staff

PUBLISHERS: Bob Abrams, Fran Sherman Chris Wahoski

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Alan Altis, Sarah Lovegreen, Jay Manley, Emily Rosenblum, Linda Spall, Chris Wahoski , Sally Wing, George Wright

EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Fran Sherman

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING: Bob Abrams

OFFICE MANAGER: Chris Wahoski

Letter from CERT Responder Magazine

Dear subscribers,

Thank you for subscribing to CERT Responder Magazine and your continued support

It is our hope that you are finding the magazine informative, and that we are supplying the information you are looking for in your ongoing efforts to assist your community in disaster preparedness.

We continue to look for stories and products that we believe are beneficial to your teams, but we would really like to get your feedback about what you like in the magazine, and what you would like to see in the future.

As stated in previous issues, our commitment is to keep you updated on current events as well as letting the first responders know how valuable you are when a crisis occurs. Please keep up the great work and commitment, as you are a great commodity to your community!

As they say in the United States Army “I got your 6” (I got your back). We at CERT Responder Magazine have your six.

“Serving those who serve their communities” CERT

Responder Magazine

CERT

Quick Shelter Canopy

Immediately establish a CERT presence on the disaster scene with ProPac’s Quick Shelter canopy.

Like all ProPac CERT equipment, our CERT Quick Shelter canopy delivers a lot for your money. It measures 10 ft. W x 10 ft. L and you can adjust the height clearance to 7 ft. The canopy is made of commercial grade, UV protected 500 Denier nylon that is a fire rated top over a heavy duty powder coated aluminum frame that’s corrosion and scratch resistant.

The ProPac Quick Shelter meets both the CPAI-84 and ULC-S-109 fire codes. ProPac’s Quick Shelter comes with accessories & graphics. A heavy duty carry bag with wheels and an extra strong staking kit are included. We finished it off with bold, bright CERT identification graphics on 2 sides, top and eaves. Art setup and production are included. Our disaster response customers agree the ProPac Quick Shelter has proven to be durable, high quality and easy to set up.

The ProPac Quick Shelter is high quality from the ground up, not a flimsy promotional piece that will bend at the first sign of a breeze. Plus, it’s fast and easy to put up. No tools are required.

WILDFIRE ANIMAL RESCUE

BY LINDA SPALL

The National Interagency Fire Center posted that as I write today, there are 115 large fires that have burned 2.2 million acres in 14 states. Though the U.S. Forest Service told us “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires,” we know that nature alone can start a fire by.lightning, or in extremely rare occasions, spontaneous combustion of dry fuel such as leaves. On the other hand, US population is approximately 328,355,612 and California and Texas rank first in both population and in wildfires. The understandable migration of folks who want to escape the cities and build their homes close to nature have created towns, businesses, and residents where stakes may be all too high. We have seen the loss of lives, homes, and wildlife, and also, families’ domesticated animals. What happens to them?

We love our animals. When evacuating homes, we do our utmost to bring the pets with us, but in some cases, we simply can’t. Rescuers must prioritize and follow the correct procedures in order to get people to safety, thus our pets must be left behind. Some die from smoke inhalation or burning, some escape frantically into the wild.. Tragically, horses and cows and other livestock are shot by the owners to spare them from having to die a horrible death by

the fire when there is no escape. Thankfully, animal rescue groups rise to the challenge and work to save the animals. They find them immediate shelter, trace the owners, rehabilitate, and find new permanent homes when needed. Networking with other rescue organizations, they coordinate operations and find solutions based on needs. Size matters in caretaking, so resources must include care of large animals as well as exotic pets and spe

cial needs. Llamas, turtles, goats, cows, and various livestock, besides family pets need to be rescued. Organizations rely on staff, volunteers, and donations. With the recent fires that have occurred, CERT Responder Magazine tips our hat to the hundreds of animal rescue groups in the United States. We salute their staff: the thousands upon thousands of volunteers who donate time, money, supplies, food, and in some cases, risk their lives to rescue,

comfort, and care for our pets, livestock and wildlife in a disaster.

Below, are just a few examples of not-for-profit groups who provide help with animals involved in wildfires. Each one is unique.

Rescuers must prioritize and follow the correct procedures in order to get people to safety, thus our pets must be left behind.

The Humane Society of United States has Animal Rescue Teams who travel the U.S. responding to disasters. They work in various capacities, caring for animals in emergency shelters (cleaning cages, feeding, exercising, and helping with supplies) and doing administration work. Volunteers must be 18 or over, take a variety of FEMA courses, and commit to one year of service, as well as one deployment a year. The alert calls for volunteers are based on needs and skills, and the responders reply. For further information or to donate, check out their info at http:// www.humanesociety.org/community/ volunteers.

The North Valley Animal Disaster Group in Chico, California (an affiliate of the Butte County Public Health Department) helps by educating the public on how to provide safety to pets, farm animals, and wildlife, assist with evacuation, identification (finding owners), and adopting and medical care. Working with The International Fund for Animal Welfare, they provide special highly technical training for rescuing animals during floods and fast flowing water. They work with helicopters, rope rescues, drysuits, boats, and their rescuers train with Butte County Search and Rescue. Teaching Technical Animal Rescue with large animals is included. Classes are given to volunteers in order to become a certified Disaster Service Worker, which includes FEMA courses ICS 100, 200 and 700. (For more information or to donate,www.nvadg.org).

Becky Salazar from Animal Disaster Services is amazing. Her group

operates under the direction of Yavapai County Emergency Management Services in Prescott, Arizona and provides temporary shelter for pets of evacuees. A team of volunteers feeds, walks, cleans and gives them love on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week until it’s over, at no cost to the pet owners. Small pets are usually housed at the local school, and the large ones stay at the rodeo or fairgrounds.

Formed in 1999, Animal Disaster Services became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2014. In that time, they have been active in many wildfires, including the very sad Yarnell Hill fire in 2013 when the 19 Hotshots were lost.

Becky remembers how an elderly gentleman under hospice care refused to evacuate without his dog. They force evacuated him and brought his dog to Animal Disaster Services. They both had a home to go to when it was all over. Becky wants to share the following good advice. “Be prepared to evacuate and put together a “go bag” for your pets. Start now and train them to walk on a leash and be happy in a kennel or enclosure. Many pets are not eager for either as they simply want to live within their homes.”

To donate or for more information, go to www.animaldisasterservices.com

The Haven Humane Society is a located in Anderson California. Not only is it responsible for housing the animals for Shasta County, City of Redding, and City of Anderson, they also are the Animal Control agency for City of Redding and City of Anderson. On July 26, 2018 the devastating Carr fire destroyed over 191,000 acres and came into the City of Redding causing mass evacuations.

Here is what Mark Storrey, the Chief Executive Officer told us of his life-saving, incredible group’s efforts.

Photos this page courtesy of credit

Mark Storrey, Haven Humane Society

“I could not have been more proud of our team. We immediately went into action to house the evacuated animals. We quickly outgrew our shelter and the Shasta Gateway outlet stores in Anderson (about 5 miles south of our shelter) donated six empty buildings in their strip mall outlet stores for our use. At the peak we had 623 small animals in wire crates at those buildings. In a matter of just a few days we took in over 930 evacuated animals. We were running 24 hour operations for about 10 days while at the mall. To say the least, the staff was amazing, exhausted, and were nothing short of superstars. Hundreds of volunteers stepped forward to help with the ani-

Be prepared to evacuate and put together a “go bag” for your pets. Start now and train them to walk on a leash and be happy in a kennel or enclosure.

mals and our needs. People donated animal food, supplies, AC units, fans, and human food to keep the team running, as well as laundry services and so much more. It was truly amazing to see our community come together during a time with so much devastation and loss.

I can tell you that throughout my life I have never been more proud to be a member of any team than I have been over the last few weeks with Haven Humane Society and our Shasta County community.”

(To donate or for more information go to HavenHumane.org)

CERT Responder thanks all the staff, volunteers, and citizens who donate to help make our world a better place. CERT

CERT Night at the Ball Park IN

ST. LOUIS

Lights and Sirens:

The Education of a Paramedic

BY KEVIN GRANGE

Publisher Berkley Books, Penguin Random House 2015

Back in the early 70’s, I was hooked on a TV program called “Emergency”. The storyline was about paramedics in the Los Angeles County Fire Department at Station 51. Episodes were full of action, resuscitations, quick decisions, camaraderie, and a bit of humor to ease the tension. I could only imagine how working real emergency calls in L.A. were different from the TV version. I had no clue when I chose Kevin Grange’s autobiographical book that he was a paramedic intern in the L. A. City Fire Department Station 38! (Still, a bonus for all “Emergency” fans!)

I also had no idea what the dedication, training, and the personal side of being a paramedic entailed until I read Kevin Grange’s absorbing book. Grange majored in creative writing at Seattle University, and you can certainly tell. His writing skills are excellent and take us on a journey of his career choice, schooling, internship, procedures and and emergency calls. From his journals, he draws us into his world by telling us not just the facts, but his personal thoughts. We know his fears, his angst, his victories, and his mistakes. He shares vivid details about his classmates, professors, and trainers. We

feel his emotions soar, and his ego deflated and rise again to face the challenges of studying seemingly endless details of procedures and medical terms. We experience his heartaches, such as when a classmate didn’t make the grade, and his joy at the small and big successes along the way.

He answers in layman’s terms—the difference between EMT and paramedic, protocol, and how easily 24 hours can turn gruesome to awesome. His moments with Earl and with Willie (patients who make him smile) and the impact of the horror of the loss of a life remind us about the tough emotional roller coaster our health care providers experience every day. Thought-provoking and introspective, the writing caused me to be amazed at how much I cared about Kevin’s success.

If you are a CERT member, TEEN CERT, or an EMT considering being a paramedic, or even remotely considering making any type of “prehospital care” a career, I strongly urge you to read Grange’s book. This book will show you the raw facts about what it takes. Well done and thank you, Kevin Grange, for a fast-paced, educational, and captivating read! CERT

BOOK REVIEW WRITTEN BY LINDA SPALL

Kevin Grange

SUPPORT FOR PROGRAMS YOUTH PREPAREDNESS

BY

Wentzville, Missouri’s Mayor, Nick Guccione, recently stated that “there are few volunteer programs with the endurance and commitment of the Mid America Teen Community Emergency Response Team, which I can proudly say is based in Wentzville.” He went on to say that “in 2015, the City of Wentzville unanimously voted to collaborate with Mid America TEEN CERT, in order to offer our community more options for citizen awareness and emergency preparation training. As Mayor, my hopes were that by Mid America TEEN CERT partnering with our Wentzville Police Department CERT, both teen and adult citizens would have the opportunity to take the training program, thereby helping Wentzville strengthen its overall community preparedness initiative.”

EMILY ROSENBLUM, HOSPITAL CORPSMAN, U.S. NAVAL HOSPITAL – YOKOSUKA, JAPAN

Not every youth preparedness program is as lucky to have the backing of their police and fire chiefs, city and mayor as Mid America TEEN CERT does, even though it wasn’t always like that. The program has had its share of speed bumps, but has stayed persisted in its goal to train as many [teen and adult] students as possible in the basics of disaster planning and preparedness and for the most part, has overcome many of the obstacles.

Having a youth preparedness program is not an easy task, and many cities and municipalities skate around establishing one due to liability and the fear of being sued. Some “preparedness-based” organizations, i.e. COADs (Community Organizations Active in Disasters) and others choose not to help promote a youth program because “preparedness is an adult responsibility” and kids just get in the way. And let’s be honest, youth programs get results (not to mention students), and many groups become envious of the continued success.

Youth preparedness programs such as Mid America TEEN CERT and across the country provide the knowledge and skills that youth need, to help build, sustain and improve our nation’s ability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. Youth are positive influencers by bringing the message of preparedness home to their families. They also become leaders by participating in these programs and becoming empowered to become leaders in their schools and communities.

Youth who are prepared are more confident during emergencies and disasters, and exhibit less anxiety during an actual event. There are several important considerations for educating and preparing youth for disasters. The first is to provide realistic information about disasters and coping mechanisms; youth with

unrealistic disaster risk perceptions were more likely to be afraid of disasters, believe less in their ability to cope, and be less aware of protective behaviors in comparison to youth with more realistic perceptions. Also, youth preparedness programs that enable first responders to work with youth can help to cultivate positive relationships and help youth to understand that first responders play a positive role in their communities.

Second, Mid America TEEN CERT tries to do is to utilize creative methods that include the use of interactive visual aids and hands-on opportuni ties where youth can be actively involved in expe riential learning to enhance their knowledge of preparedness. It is also important for schools to integrate disaster preparedness into core curriculum across subject mat ter. Disaster preparedness can be incorporated into science, history, economics, social studies, language arts, and mathematics courses. Teachers can also incorporate real world events to teach about disasters and emergency situations.

Lastly and most importantly, youth preparedness programs should promote interaction between youth and their families. Mid America TEEN CERT trains both teen aged students 12 years and older, but also adults, so that families can learn together about emergencies and develop disaster preparedness plans and kits, helping to ensure that everyone is involved and knowledgeable about these efforts. CERT For further information about classes, Mid America TEEN CERT or TEEN CERT in general, visit www.facebook.com/groups/MIDAMERICATEENCERT. You can also email Program Director Mark Rosenblum at mark.rosenblum@outlook.com

Focus On CERT SPOTLIGHT

Heather Mazurkiewicz

Florida State Certified Firefighter and Nationally Certified EMT

At 45 years old, Heather Mazurkiewicz left a CEO position and entered the North Collier Fire Academy. She is now a Florida State Certified Firefighter and Nationally Certified EMT and is a volunteer Firefighter with the Bayshore Fire & Rescue District and the Public Education & Information Officer for North Collier Fire Control & Rescue, overseeing programs like Community CPR and CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Teams).

Heather is also the Assistant State Director for Firefighter Cancer Support Network, a volunteer organization that assists firefighters and their families when faced with a cancer diagnosis.

She was recently recognized as the State of Florida’s Volunteer Firefighter of the Year and one of Southwest Florida’s Most Influential Women. She is a graduate of the US Chambers Institute of Organizational Management (IOM). IOM is a fouryear program combining practical and academic experience to assist participants in implementing cutting-edge ideas and best practices into their organizations.

Heather is a runner who runs races, along with her 11-year-old daughter Mia, in full Firefighter Gear to raise awareness about cancer in the fire service and the need for cancer coverage in Florida. Heather enjoys hunting, the top down on her jeep, and anything with peanut butter!!

WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT BEING A CERT COORDINATOR?

My favorite part of coordinating our CERT program is being able to interact with our residents on a good day. I have the pleasure of watching the light bulb turn on during the program when a particular module or lesson hits home with them and then upon the conclusion of the program, the sense of empowerment that has been instilled in them. So often the public feels they don’t have control in disaster or emergency situations. We get to give them the tools to show they do and arm them with the confidence to be able to do so.

WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT?

I’ve had quite a few pretty “monumental” accomplishments I have been fortunate enough to hold many leadership positions in my professional career and have been recognized for work I have done. Most recently I was recognized as the State of Florida’s Volunteer Firefighter of the year for 2018. However, my greatest accomplishment, gift and title will always be the mom of my 11-year-old daughter, Mia Noel. She is smart and beautiful with a side of sassy and I work every day to be an example to her.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN?

I love being outdoors. I enjoy hunting and shooting and I am usually training for a race. I run 5ks to 1/2 marathons in full firefighter turnout gear to raise awareness about Cancer being the number one killer of firefighters.

HOW CAN THE PUBLIC SAY

“THANK YOU” AND MAKE YOUR WORK

EASIER?

I tell everyone when they start the CERT program you can learn everything I am about to teach online, it’s my job to instill confidence. Upon completion, if they share the CERT program with friends and family and encourage them to attend then I know they believe in what they learned. Ther is no greater feeling than that.

WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCE?

I am a product of many people, however, my love for the CERT program is directly attributed to Battalion Chief Kevin Haines from the City of Coral Fire Department. I did a ride along with the Cape Coral Fire Department. He and the crew shared many experiences with me and he spoke about the program. That day was I quit my CEO job and signed up for the fire academy. He set the foundation for the type of instructor I strive to be and every day I work to do everything I can to show the public about the greatest profession in the world, firefighters and CERT Coordinator. CERT

why KNOT?

THE SHEET BEND

PART 5 IN OUR ONGOING SERIES

The SHEET BEND (WEAVER’S KNOT) is for tying different types of material together and joining different thicknesses of rope. This knot even joins together lines or materials that normally couldn’t be joined together. It is suitable for most non-critical applications.

• For tying two ropes together, even when rope sizes and materials differ greatly

• For more security use the doubled version (Becket Bend) which is the same as the single version but with an extra coil around the standing loop.

• Commonly used for joining threads that have parted in a loom or as a permanent knot tied in small material

3. Hold thick end and pull thin rope to tighten INSTRUCTIONS

1. Pass the thin rope through the thick rope bight

2. Wrap it around the bight and tuck it under itself

PATROL CIVIL AIR

Technical School

BY ALAN ALTIS

The 2018 class of the Civil Air Patrol’s (www.gocivilairpatrol.com) Pathfinder Technical School concluded with 14 new CERT trained members ranging from 12 to 17 years old. The course was held at Fort Leonard Wood from July 5th -12th. The Civil Air Patrol is the US Air Force Auxiliary and has among its 3 missions Emergency Services. This encompasses Search and Rescue, Disaster Relief, Aerial Photography for Disaster Assessment.

CAP uses aircraft and ground teams for its Emergency Services mission. Pathfinder Technical School is an Advanced SAR school for ground teams and is open to both cadets and senior members (adults) who are members of CAP. The school first started in 1983 and ran until the early 2000s. It was brought back in 2014 and has been the source of training for many ground team members, not only within MO, but from every state in the country.

Over the week-long course, in addition to CAP specific ground team training, course specific requirements, the stu-

dents were also provided CERT training under the direction of Cadet Lt. Col. Kole Tilson. The cadets were tested many times throughout the week with multiple mini-disasters to respond to. The week culminated with a large-scale disaster exercise where all their training was put to use.

In the past 2 years alone, graduates of the Pathfinder Technical School have participated in the response to Hurricane Harvey, 3 missing person searches and several ELT searches assigned by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center. CERT

For information on your local CAP squadron, please visit www.gocivilairpatrol.com/cap-unit-locator.

The Hard Facts About

ALZHEIMERS

ABY SARAH LOVEGREEN

lzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is an umbrella term used for diseases that cause abnormal difficulties with memory, language, problem solving, and other cognitive skills that affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities. To help ensure the safety of individuals and families, it’s critical that first responders are knowledgeable about the disease and its effects. People with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can unknowingly put themselves and others in danger.

As you interact with the community, it may be hard to tell if someone has dementia; however, given the high prevalence of Alzheimer’s, it is likely you have passed by people with dementia. Some signs that someone may have dementia include the following:

• A blank or confused facial expression

• Inappropriate attire (e.g., not dressed for the weather)

• Unbalanced or shuffling gait

• Person is not aware of unsafe actions or situations (e.g. walking along the side of a freeway)

• Age: Dementia is most common among the elderly, so the person’s approximate age can be a clue; however, dementia has been found in people as young as their 30s.

Approaching the person and initiating conversation will offer additional details as to whether or not the person needs assistance. When people with dementia are in unfamiliar settings, they may be easily agitated or afraid. To best help the person with dementia, approach him/her from the front. Speak slowly and use simple language. Introduce yourself, and tell the person you are there to help. Be aware of your body language, and keep eye contact with the individual.

One of the most common situations in which you will come in contact with a person with dementia is wandering. Nearly 70 percent of people with dementia wander. If not found within 24 hours, up to 50% of people risk serious injury or death. It is also important to note that wandering can take place on foot, in a car, or via public transportation.

A diagnosis of dementia can be devastating and highly stress-

ful to individuals and families. Caregivers and the person with dementia both experience stress as the person with dementia has difficulty with daily tasks, and the caregiver feels overwhelmed. Sometimes, that stress can turn into abuse or neglect. This can be in the form of physical abuse, self-neglect, and/or financial abuse. Whether or not you feel that the situation is an emergency, a call should be placed to Adult Protective Services so that a case file is prepared for the individual. Adult Protective Services, or APS, is the entity responsible for investigating abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults who are elderly or have disabilities.

The Alzheimer’s Association offers a number of free resources to people living with dementia and their loved ones. Our most popular service is our free Helpline, where anyone can call, 24 hours a day, 7 days week and speak to our team of experts. By calling 800-272-3900, individuals can learn more about dementia and available resources, find a support group, or have a free care consultation that will provide individualized guidance on living with the disease. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association Approaching Alzheimer’s: First Responder Training is a free online course to help first responders more effectively and efficiently respond to common calls involving a person with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. First Responders can complete all topics to earn a certificate or simply review those most relevant to their role by taking the free online training at

2018 NATIONAL CERT

Naples, Florida

Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony performed by Gun’s & Hoses “Pipes-n-Drums” Southwest Florida

CERT CONFERENCE

Opening Ceremony

James Cunningham, President Florida

CERT Association Fire Chief, North Collier Fire Control & Rescue District

Volunteer Florida David Mica Jr. Chief Executive Officer

Conference Hall Opening Comments

Awards

(Left to right) - Suuva Tai, Lori Freiburg, James Cunningham, David Mica Jr. and Carol Sjursen

Delores Bertolini - Distinguished Service Award

Ellen Pinder, Mitigation Planner Charlotte County Emergency Management - Silver Star Award

Dr. C. Ryan Akers - Preparing The Whole CommunityNational Youth Preparedness Initiative

Michael D. Thieman, Metro West Division Chief of External Affairs and Emergency Management - Outstanding Inclusive Initiatives in Emergency Management

2018 National CERT Team of The Year - Fort Lauderdale

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Tyler Krska - FEMA Emergency Management Specialist contact info Fema-prepare@Fema.dhs.gov or call 202.786.0947

Individual & Community Preparedness National Preparedness Directorate

Andrew Burrows - FEMA Citizen Responder Lead contact info andrew. burrows@fema.dhs.gov or call 202.212.7900

Individual & Community Preparedness National Preparedness Directorate

FEMA CERT & Citizen Registration Website: www.ready.gov/register

Patrick Palmer - 2018 National CERT Volunteer of the Year.

So You Want To Be A

SAR DRONE PILOT

BY JAY MANLEY

Part 1

So, you purchased your first drone, and now you want to use it for Search and Rescue. Great! Are you prepared? Probably not. What we need to discuss is the training, software, and preparations you should incorporate before attempting to use your drone for an actual search and rescue effort.

We all come from different backgrounds, and my search and rescue experience comes from nearly 20 years as a Civil Air Patrol member with many actual missions, hundreds of actual sorties, the CAP “Find” Ribbon, and a National Commendation Ribbon. I’m also qualified as an Incident Commander and hold the rank of Lt. Commander. On the lighter side, I have been a lifetime member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics for over 25 years. I am also a Part 91 single-engine pilot and glider pilot, and I got my Part 107 sUAS rating on the first day it was available.

Participating in real search and rescue missions, where real lives are at stake, has made me passionate about helping others better themselves in this area. After all, there is NO small role in saving a life or assisting with a rescue! And the last thing that I want to see is people assuming their personal importance in a search and rescue has more relevance than the person needing assistance.

So, what can you do to better prepare yourself to be able to operate a drone during an actual search? The first thing is practice. You think it’s easy finding someone with your new $1500 drone? Do this then: Go to your local supply store and get a big “human sized” chunk of 4” foam and cut

in the rough shape of a person. Put a pair of old blue jeans on it and a typical grey/blue/red t-shirt, then have a friend go out and hide it in a field, grove of trees, or partially obscured by some desert brush. This should happen when you don’t know where he’s at. Then, let him “brief” you on the general description of your target, which direction it was last seen going, and you launch your drone and try to find it and guide someone to the “rescue”. It might surprise you at just how hard it is to do in practice.

So now that you have your first challenge, lets discuss what you need to have in order to perform as a pilot for a mission. The very first thing to know is that if you are a Part 336 hobbyist pilot, that’s an instant disqualification legally. I will preface this next statement by first saying that the FAA is continually re-evaluating what is allowed, so my statements here are as of the date of the article being initially written, and I cannot guarantee that these will apply in the future. Right now, to operate in the capacity of a pilot, you must either a) have your Part 107 commercial sUAS license or b) operate under a Certificate of Authorization (COA) held by the agency asking you to perform the duties of a pilot. Public agencies (police, fire, others) conduct pub -

lic air operations as described in Title 49 of the United States Code (49 U.S.C.) sections 40102(a)(41) and 40125 require a COA.

Wow. If you’re like me, that reads like my economics book in college, the only book that could put me to sleep just from opening it! So, what does all the above mean? First – If you want to operate under Part 107 rules, you need to follow them to the letter. That means that if the mission requires you to fly over people (such as a search line) it can’t be done under Part 107 rules. If you want to fly 600’ high because it’ll help you see an area better, you cannot do that. Or, if you want to fly in airspace that is restricted from you flying in, again, this is not a rule you can break. You must follow all the Part 107 rules that you would when doing any other Part 107 flying.

The very first thing to know is that if you are a Part 336 hobbyist pilot, that’s an instant disqualification legally.

So, how do you get around that?

Maybe you want to fly near a burning building in a large city over people, or maybe you need to fly over that search line, or higher than Part 107 allows. That’s where you need to find a way to either a) get your own COA – not easy to do, or b) fly under another agency’s COA. If you are going to do the latter, don’t assume that a “nod” that you’re covered under it is good enough. Request a copy of it, make sure that they have a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in place between you personally and the agency BEFORE you fly. I know, you want to save a life, but the risks to you if you don’t do this is too high not to do it. If you work for said agency, typically you are covered, by the way.

Now, you’re likely getting the idea that it’s not as simple as charging your batteries, running out the door, and flying. Don’t let this dissuade you, however! Because you are doing some-

thing to give back to your community and the world, and the more you give, the more you get back. sUAS SAR does have requirements and training, much like anything worthwhile. Some of you are seasoned search and rescue professionals (or seasoned amateurs like myself), but some of you might be asking about how to start unraveling the knowledge on not only how to perform a search, but also how to understand your part of a larger effort. The first bits of learning should focus on the Incident Command structure. Fortunately, after many failed national emergencies, FEMA has stepped up to create a common IC training for every agency so that when you work cross-agency (which nearly all searches ultimately end up being, with police, other search agencies, rescue teams, and other groups participating). I would suggest that you take the online courses from FEMA:

• ICS 100 – Introduction to Incident Command Systems

• ICS 200 – ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incident

• ICS 700 – National Incident Management System – An Introduction

• ICS 800 – National Response Framework – An Introduction

Each of these has a course and a short test afterwards. You should carefully review the materials and pass the tests at the end of each. FEMA will send you a certificate in the mail as well, and you should retain each of them for your records. You can find all of these courses at http://www.training. fema.gov/nims/ and after completing these four, you might want to consider the classroom-only courses of ICS 300 – Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents and ICS 400 – Advanced ICS for Command and General Staff. Typically, these are offered by local emergency management organizations in your area and are multi-day courses. CERT

In the next article, I’ll discuss why understanding this system is so important and how being knowledgeable in command structures will make you a go-to resource. In the meantime, you can view my online course at https://courses. droneproacademy.com/courses/searchand-rescue-with-jay-manley/.

Building A

MISSOURI EMS MEMORIAL

BY GEORGE WRIGHT

For the last four or five years, several individuals have worked hard to start a project: to build a Missouri EMS Memorial here in Missouri. We have a fire memorial in Kingdom City and a law enforcement memorial in Jefferson City. But Missouri has does not have an EMS memorial.

Several people got together and worked on a drawing, redrawing it several times, and a rendering has been on display at the Missouri EMS annual conference, at ICE, a MEMSA meeting, and at several MAA meetings for the last several years.

One of the challenges was finding a permanent location in which to build this project with parking, good ground, and easy access.

A memorial would honor those that have given the ultimate sacrifice, their lives, in the line of duty. As of September 3, 1973 until today, 27 individuals have given the ultimate sacrifice. The memorial would also be available if there is any future loss of life of our EMS brothers and sisters. In addition, it would honor those that served years in EMS but have now passed away. The plans were to have a memorial service every year to honor those that have died in the LODD and those that served in EMS.

In November 2017, the Missouri EMS Memorial Foundation was established, with a 9-member board representing MAA, MEMSA, Air Ambulance, Survivors, Ground Ambulance districts, SAC, and those boots on the ground. An advisory

committee was also set up with the State Director of Supporting Heroes, a director from the National EMS Memorial, and an attorney, who has worked very hard and is doing it all at no cost to the foundation: getting all the paperwork for the state of Missouri and our 501 C3 prepared. The foundation is now a 501 C3 not-for-profit organization. The organization had website built at no cost to the foundation. The website is www.moemsmemorialfoundation.org

One of the challenges was finding a permanent location in which to build this project with parking, good ground, and easy access. There were several locations that were considered across the state with no luck. However, that is no longer the case. The lease was signed on Thursday, May 17, 2018. The home for the Missouri EMS memorial will be on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph Missouri.

This location was chosen and approved by the board of directors. The location is on the campus, off of Downs

Standing guard at the National EMS Memorial Service in Colorado Springs

Drive, right across from the Walter Cronkite museum and the summer home for the Kansas City Chiefs. St. Joseph is rich in history, with museums from the pony express, Jesse James, and many others.

These service walls will lead up to the main memorial, watching over our fallen EMS brothers and sisters.

The memorial project is to include granite service walls where members that served in EMS for a certain number of years, and others, can have their names placed. Today we have the applications for those names, so feel free to stop by and pick up an application. You can also obtain that information on the foundation’s website.

These service walls will lead up to the main memorial, watching over our fallen EMS brothers and sisters. The aforementioned 27 names will be etched in the Wall of Honor. This

monument, standing tall under the American, Missouri, and EMS flag, honoring their ultimate sacrifice, stands on a hill, a beautiful spot where families, individuals, visitors and organizations can come to reminisce and remember those that have served.

This project of course will come with a cost. The organization is looking for donations to help make this memorial a reality. We have sponsorship packages and donor envelopes, and will be planning more to help raise the funds.

Please visit the website at www.moemsmemorialfoundation. org. It has been a long time coming. We are hopeful that all Missouri EMS providers, organizations, and companies will get behind us and support this endeavor. CERT

Memorial service

Member of the team, Deputy state commander Ed Angle, presenting a medallion to a young lady at the National EMS memorial service.

Memorial service in Shelbina MO

AUTUMN EVENTS

SEPT. 21: Alzheimer’s Day

OCTOBER: Breast Cancer Awareness

NOVEMBER 4: Daylight Savings

NOVEMBER 11: Veteran’s Day

NOVEMBER 22: Thanksgiving

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Coordinate during disasters

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A “Second Responder’s” Guide to

Over half of American homes have an animal that is considered a family members, often more than one. When disaster strikes and the community volunteers of CERT answer the call, they deal with human AND animal evacuees. Both pets and livestock can be secured in temporary shelters and reunited with families when it is safe, but a disabled person with a Service Animal is in a different situation, they need to stay together except under the most dire circumstances. Service Animals are considered “durable medical equipment” under ADA Law, the same classification as a wheelchair, prosthetic limb, oxygen tank, or cane. You would never consider separating someone from these necessary items during an evacuation.

“You can’t predict, but you can prepare.” Handling Service Animals during a crisis or disaster is a simple matter of preparedness.

Are there members on your team that know who has Service Animals in your community or neighborhood? Identify those homes in your data system. Assign team members to become acquainted with their neighbors with Service Animals; make “house call” during NON-emergencies so that the dog will recognize your voice, because you will look & smell very differently in crisis mode.

Every Service Dog training program has some unique language for similar commends. Sit, stay, heel, are pretty universal but what is the command THIS dog has learned to toilet? To walk along side? To jump on/off a chair or bed? To get in/out of a car? Conversation with your disabled neighbor can reveal the dog’s “language”.

If your disabled neighbor must be evacuated from his/her home, be sure to ask for the Service Animal’s emergency “GO bag”. A well prepared handler will make sure his/her Service Dog’s bag has extra food, a leash, veterinarian info, copy of vaccination record and any prescriptions, any certification documents, and contact information of the certifying/training organization.

If your disabled neighbor must be evacuated from his/her home, be sure to ask for the Service Animal’s emergency “GO bag”.

Keep the handler and Service Dog together in transit. This will reduce stress and anxiety for BOTH of them. If the disabled handler must be hospitalized or is unconscious, allow the Service Dog to stay with him/her unless it is impossible. Depending on the disability, the dog may already be familiar with the local hospital! If the dog and handler must be separated, place the dog with family first, even if they are staying in a temporary emergency shelter. If no family is available, contact the certifying agency – the folks that trained the dog. If they are out of the danger zone & nearby, the dog will be best cared for with them. They may also have an agent or representative that could house the dog until it

If the dog and handler must be separated, place the dog with family first, even if they are staying in a temporary emergency shelter.

can be restored to its handler. If neither of the previous two options is available, and the dog must be taken to the nearest shelter, clearly identify the dog

as a Service Animal to the shelter staff. The dog should not be placed in the general population of shelter dogs. Reunite the Service Dog with his/her handler as soon as it is medically safe, even if they must remain in the hospital or emergency shelter together.

Canine Support Teams is ready to assist CERT volunteers with guidance and instruction to help you be better prepared for Service Animal encounters during a disaster or crisis. CERT

GROUND FLOOR OPPORTUNITY FOR THE RIGHT PERSON!

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CERT on the road

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