People often ask what I read to supplement my profession. I read four books per year. (Hilariously, I also have the same amount of people who also ask me “HOW THE HELL DO YOU FIND THE TIME TO READ?!?!?”)

While I am sure I can read more, if I inundate my little brain with too much stuff, I would never implement the things I glean from reading.

As we close out 3Q, and since we are teaching the FEMA COOP Manager TtT course, I am finishing up Reading Raven Rock.

Interesting perspective to historical processes and def a fun government read esp when it comes to continuity operations.

As we start 4Q, I have opted to switch to a more specific book. Since I already follow Nada, I am looking forward to reading some of her thoughts on Targeters.

You know I love to hunt.

What are you reading this quarter?

(Gimme some ideas on what you are reading for my 1Q 2020 time.)

@rusnivek

Not all emergencies or disasters happen in broad daylight…or even better yet, M-F 8A-5p. That’s why it’s imperative that your staff trains for situations that come up during weird hours.

Our staff attended the DuPage County Airport exercise that simulated an aircraft w/ mechanical issues then crashing.

Obviously a tough situation, but definitely plausible/realistic (few years ago).

We had many all-hazards providers from across the area to respond and are thankful for their participation in the full-scale exercise.

Now, interesting to hear that there were several real world calls that occurred during the exercise that decreased the response effort.

Lemme be straight: THAT IS WHAT HAPPENS IRL!

So as a planner or leader, don’t be discouraged with this variance because this is exactly why we train for these types of situation. Rarely, will we have a day that everyone is working wIth 100% capacity.

Look at it this way, being able to provide the same capability with decreased staffing Is a win for your department.

If you fudge your exercises to showcase you are perfect 100% of the time, real Emergency Managers now you are a fraud.

Be real. Make your training real and best serve your partners.

@rusnivek