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Disaster Stress Management in an Emergency Operations Center

a large room with computers and monitors and computers on the waDisasters affect responders and community members, but they also bring trauma to those working inside emergency operations centers. Distance from the scene does not create a shield from stress. Secondary traumatic stress can impair leadership, so managing this stress is vital for effective emergency response.

A Holistic Strategy for Responders’ Well-Being

Full length of fireman drinking coffee while sitting in truck at fire stationFirst responders and emergency managers face constant, high-pressure stress from trauma, long hours, and critical decisions. This often leads to chronic stress, increasing risks of heart disease, mental health issues, and substance abuse. Their ability to help others depends on prioritizing their own well-being through proactive self-care.

Article Out Loud – A Holistic Strategy for Responders’ Well-Being

This is an article by Camilo Olivieri, an Article Out Loud from Domestic Preparedness, May 7, 2025. First responders and emergency managers face constant, high-pressure stress from trauma, long hours, and critical decisions. This often leads to chronic stress, increasing risks of heart disease, mental health issues, and substance abuse. Their ability to help others depends on prioritizing their own well-being through proactive self-care. Learn how first responders and emergency managers can thrive, ensuring they can better support those they protect and care for.

Bridging Communication Gaps: Lessons from Hurricane Helene

Comms Strike Team - Yancey CountyHurricanes in 2024 caused widespread damage to infrastructure, leading to a critical but often overlooked issue: isolation. Physical and technological disruptions left public safety personnel and government officials unable to perform essential tasks. While physical destruction was visible, the invisible breakdown of communication systems intensified the sense of isolation and fear among officials and the public.

Article Out Loud – Bridging Communication Gaps: Lessons from Hurricane Helene

This is an article by Greg Hauser, an Article Out Loud from Domestic Preparedness, April 30, 2025. Hurricanes in 2024 caused widespread damage to infrastructure, leading to a critical but often overlooked issue: isolation. Physical and technological disruptions left public safety personnel and government officials unable to perform essential tasks. While physical destruction was visible, the invisible breakdown of communication systems intensified the sense of isolation and fear among officials and the public. Learn how SWICs and emergency managers can implement plans to address these unique challenges to prepare for the next disaster.

Connectivity: The Foundation of Disaster Response and Preparedness

5G mobile signal Communication Mast (cell tower) Super fast data streaming concept. 3D illustration.In an era of increasingly frequent and severe weather events, the demands on first responders have never been greater. To navigate high-stakes, rapidly evolving situations, reliable connectivity and cutting-edge technology are essential. A fast, secure, and resilient communications network is the backbone of any effective disaster response.

Article Out Loud – Connectivity: The Foundation of Disaster Response and Preparedness

This is an article by Rodrigo (Roddy) Moscoso, an Article Out Loud from Domestic Preparedness, April 23, 2025. As satellite-to-cell tech grows more common, cell phone makers must move quickly to adopt it. This link can bridge emergency services and the public, no matter the disaster or condition of ground networks. Learn how real-time satellite communication offers vital access and resilience for users and first responders alike, saving lives.

April 2025

operator in a comms centerFeatured in this issue: Editor’s Note: Emergency Communications—Tough Lessons From the Maui Wildfires, by Catherine L. Feinman; Emergency Alerts: The Missing Link, by Rodrigo (Roddy) Moscoso; Hidden Barriers to Public Safety Interoperability, by Gabe Elias; AI Software in 911 Dispatch Centers: An Innovative Solution, by Tanya M. Scherr; A Systems Thinking Approach to Improving Emergency Communications, by William Chapman; Connectivity: The Foundation of Disaster Response and Preparedness, by Cory Davis; Know the Audience: Five Keys to Effective Communication, by Marc Hill; Bridging Communication Gaps: Lessons From Hurricane Helene, by Greg Hauser; A Regional Approach to Public Safety Communications Planning, by Charles (Charley) Bryson
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