Exercise Tests Military, Civilian Emergency Communications

DAHLGREN, Va. (NNS) -- Coalition Warrior Interoperability Demonstration (CWID) at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren offered an opportunity for state and county agencies to work with Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) to plan for a mass casualty event.

NSASP's emergency management staff and the command's training team utilized technologies demonstrated at CWID for homeland defense and homeland security applications. The goal of the exercise was to adapt CWID technologies for use by Navy emergency responders and local law enforcement and emergency management agencies.

Many of the applications could be adapted for use on a local level by law enforcement and emergency management agencies, and provide an edge during emergency situations.

As simulated events unfolded, agencies including Dahlgren Emergency Operations Center; King George County's Sheriff's Office and King George Fire/Rescue and Emergency Services; Caroline County Fire and Rescue and the Charles County, Md., Department of Emergency Services. They participated in real-time "chat" exchanges and worked together to manage resources and find the best way to handle a simulated disaster in the area.

Agencies also assessed the needs of local employees and area residents during a disaster.

In the scripted exercise, officials responded to an explosion that made a bridge impassable. The simulation tested CWID applications in assisting Navy and state and local agencies in coordinating disaster response, search and rescue and recovery operations.

The simulation also included an evaluation of procedures for instructing base employees to "shelter in place," or remain in their offices, since road closures prevented driving in the area.

A significant concern highlighted during the exercise was the welfare of base employees and their family members that they might not be able to reach. Base employees can complete a Family Emergency Plan available at www.ready.gov to help prepare for extended separation or unexpected disruption of their daily schedule.

For more news from Naval Support Activity South Potomac, visit www.navy.mil/local/NSASP/.