BACKGROUND TO THE FOUNDING OF THE EMERGENCY RESPONSE NETWORK

Despite wide news coverage of hurricanes and the best efforts of local governments and volunteers, there are still serious gaps in our collective response to these  events. The Emergency Response Network is a direct effort derived from long experience in documenting hurricanes (and other events). Preparation, survival and recovery are our focus, filling in gaps to assist at every stage and help to save lives.

COMMUNICATIONS IS A PRIME FOCUS

Four channels of spreading comprehensive, carefully interpreted information about approaching storms are being used and explored further. First, communications through existing non-commercial radio stations in the coastal areas, including news bulletins and more intensive coverage as storms approach. Second, we are working to create an area wide open channel for communications between first responder groups, including NGOs, volunteers and, when needed, official response agencies of the area governments. This open channel will allow responders to broadcast to all others what they are doing, where they are doing it and provide information on specific, immediate needs. (Other efforts by different organizations are underway to meet this same need, including use of the emerging ATSC3 system of communications through local television outlets.)

We are also working to provide an internet based radio channel and will use social media as well to spread information to those in the potential impact zones.

SURVIVAL during a storm mainly involves live broadcasting. Details on developing flooding and storm surge threats can best be reported by local media, often those working with ERN News who have been specifically trained in disaster response reporting. Additionally, ERN News will send a reporter or reporters to the scene as well as use freelancers.

The first task after a storm passes is to gather information about the extent of damage and assist local responders in meeting the needs of those still in harms way. The open communication channel will be part of this effort. Those who have evacuated from a storm often want as much detailed information as possible about where damage has occurred. ERN News will meet this need through all available media outlets. Providing direct, day by day information about recovery efforts to those in the impact zones is also an important function.