By Ken Kehmna, Senior Policy Advisor, Western Fire Chiefs
Wildfires, hurricanes, floods, and more each demand a unique approach to minimize damage and save lives. Being prepared for all-hazards means having the tools, strategies, and communication systems ready to adapt to any emergency. Having the right technology to enable swift and effective action is critical.
One breakthrough in emergency management software is changing the game: the ability to import and integrate custom map layers as usable alerting zones. This innovation addresses a critical gap in disaster readiness—allowing emergency managers and first responders to tailor their response and emergency alert messaging to the specific demands of each disaster type.
The Role of Technology in All-Hazard Readiness
Customizable Zones
Traditional mass notification platforms often allow the integration of custom map layers as visual overlays. These layers are helpful for situational awareness but lack the functionality to take actions like alerting the public. Now, new technology enables imported layers to be transformed into actionable zones.
This means emergency managers and first responders can go beyond simply seeing geographical boundaries, they can use these zones to send targeted alerts, manage evacuations, and coordinate resources more effectively. Why is this so important? No single zone type can be used for all disasters. A wildfire evacuation zone might not be suitable during a hurricane response, and a flood zone’s boundaries will differ greatly from those of a fire. Custom zone integration makes responding to any disaster type more precise and effective.
Protective Communications
Another cornerstone of all-hazard readiness is protective communications.
Protective communications seek to enhance emergency response areas that are critical to all hazards. This means improving planning, access to real-time data, and targeted messaging. Unlike traditional mass alerts, which focus purely on getting alerts out to the public, protective communications enable precise, zone-based communication and streamlined workflows. By facilitating collaboration and more precise evacuations, protective communications ensure faster, smarter, and more effective action during any disaster, making it essential for all-hazard readiness.
For example, during a hurricane, evacuation orders can target storm surge zones, ensuring only those at risk are alerted. Traditional mass notifications stop there. However, real-time communication between responding agencies, instant access to evolving critical data for leadership, and rapid information sharing enhance coordination, save lives, and maintain control.
Why All-Hazard Readiness Requires Flexibility
Disasters are unpredictable, and many regions face multiple hazards. The U.S. West Coast, for example, frequently experiences wildfires and floods. On the East Coast, hurricanes and flooding have been the primary concerns, but the increasing prevalence of wildfires is adding a new layer of complexity.
No single emergency management tool comes preloaded with every zone type for every disaster. This makes flexibility key. The ability to import custom zones from authoritative sources, update them in real-time, and use them directly for response ensures readiness for any scenario.
A Call for Preparedness
All-hazard readiness is about being prepared for the unexpected. With advancements in emergency management technology, like actionable intelligence, custom zones, and multi-channel protective communications, emergency managers and first responders are better equipped than ever before.
By leveraging these tools, communities can adapt when necessary and be better prepared for the challenges they face. When seconds count, having the ability to respond swiftly, decisively, and accurately makes all the difference. True readiness means being prepared for everything, because disasters don’t wait.
