This morning was all about preparedness and drilling down disaster readiness focusing on senior citizens. Lots of discussion on evacuation triage/transport and accountability as well as shelter operations. 

Glad to see so many partners in public safety contributing to creative solutions for disaster preparedness. 

Additionally, so proud to see so many agencies building networks in class with each other.

Although we are often siloed in daily operations, we must collaborate and respond wth each other. This all-hazards approach is the cornerstone of emergency management. Whether local/state/Federal, it showcases Emergency Management’s ability to coordinate before, during, and after any disaster/emergency.

@rusnivek

A little reading tonight. Starting this new book.

What are you peeps reading? Tell me in the comments below.

@rusnivek

Great to see so many people out there showcasing the values of science to younger generations on EarthDay (April 22, 2017).

Also great to see so many parents participating in nurturing STEM programs to numerous kids.

With their future work with science – we can help our future generations protect our great nation.

Science is awesome!
@rusnivek

22 years ago. 

We remember the victims/survivors of the Oklahoma City Bombing. We must continue to be vigilant in protecting our great nation.

I like many of you, images from that day are seared into my mind. While many published images depict the building, death, and destruction, we must move forward and remember all those lives changed in Oklahoma City that day in 1995. 

If you ever get a chance to visit Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – I recommend you spend some time at the national memorial. It is well worth your time.

We must dedicate more resources to Homeland Security and all local, state, and Federal partners who are integral in everyday safety.

@rusnivek

Great start this morning at the Volusia County Emergency Operations Center to teach my favorite class – Social Media Tools & Techniques!

Great EOC location and outstanding learning environment to host this FEMA NDPTC course!

Today, we have all-hazards participants from across the state of Florida. #awesome

Including the entire contingent from Jacksonville Fire/Rescue! #JAX

We talked a TON about new platforms and techniques that agencies can put into place to increase their community engagement.

Engaging in-class table top social media activity (simulation) showcases the need to address consistent messaging with various government entities.

While typical emergency services (like Fire, EMS, Police) are still the cornerstone of immediate responses, we need to branch out and consider other government services that can easily amplify critical messaging during an emergency.

Additionally, we as professional communicators must branch out and think outside the communications box. Old school thinking like: “You don’t use AP style while tweeting?” – showcases the need to think about the target audience who will receive/digest our message. #amiright

We must encourage more partnerships between public safety agencies, which, in the end, will showcase the collaborative approach that defines Emergency Management.

“We must work closely with our partners in public safety to ensure a coordinated response and completion of our mission objectives.” – @rusnivek

Special thanks to Tom and all the PIO Pros who attend our training at the Volusia County Emergency Operations Center.

Reporting live from Florida…

@rusnivek