MDC Launches Mobile Emergency Operations Centre
Emergencies can happen anytime, but more importantly anywhere which is the driving force behind Manawatū District Council’s new mobile Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).
Being on the scene of an emergency to help support the community affected is the number one priority. While MDC’s Administration building is the current Emergency Operations Centre, with a large rural demographic, an urban based EOC isn’t always the most efficient.
The mobile EOC is easily transportable in an accompanying trailer with the centre set up and operational in 30 minutes. The structure can withstand winds of up to 100km/h, a total capacity of 40 people and is equipped with lighting and satellite connectivity to provide real-time coordination.
Mobile coordination centres are becoming more common and as emergency response organisations work together, so too can these shelters. In Hawkes Bay during the Cyclone Gabrielle response, mobile emergency coordination centres were zipped together acting as a tent city which expanded the footprint of service to the community.
“The discussion for a mobile EOC began many years ago so it’s very exciting to see the concept come to fruition”, Mayor Helen Worboys explains. “In times of emergency, every second counts, and having a mobile, highly equipped response unit like this will make a tremendous difference in our ability to coordinate effectively and deploy resources quickly.”
The launch of MDC’s mobile EOC is part of Manawatū District Council’s ongoing commitment to developing innovative solutions that improve public safety and disaster response.
The mobile Emergency Operations Centre will be on display at the Family Fun Day on Sunday 16 March from 10am - 1pm at Victoria Park, Feilding. The public are encouraged to step inside and learn more about the role of Council within a Civil Defence emergency.
MDC's Mobile Emergency Operations Centre opening with Elected Members.