Beyond Fingerpointing
Oct 1, 2005 12:00 PM, LARRY ANDERSON, EDITOR
Most of us agree that the response to Hurricane Katrina reflected a sorry excuse for preparedness. However, there is some disagreement about what lessons we should learn from that failure, as reflected in comments from readers of our e-mail newsletter.
Several readers point to a lack of leadership at the federal level — and jurisdictional confusion at all levels — leading to the emergency response shortcomings. “People [at the top] should have experience in disaster management,” contends security consultant William J. Warnock.
Local leadership was the problem, says training coordinator Steven M. Sullivan of Elk Grove Village, Ill. “Like a fire, the first unit on the scene sets the tone for the successful or unsuccessful outcome,” he says. “I don't think local or state government was adequately prepared to initiate a disaster response.”
Warren J. LaPlante agrees: “The main problem is that local and state governments do not want to be governed by the federal government. To ensure proper response, there has to be pre-planning and agreed-upon involvement.”
Henry DeGroot of San Jose urges the feds to “enter a disaster area prepared to render assistance. They are a support function and should be guided by experts in the affected region.” Paul E. Verheyen suggests legislation that would give the federal government authority to act when a disaster occurs “since it appears the nation believes the federal government should ultimately be responsible.”
But beyond turf war issues, many readers searched for constructive lessons on what we can all do better next time. “Have a stockpile or quick access to satellite phones so that first responders know that this is a preferred means of communications,” one reader urges.
Jennie L. Sanchez suggests a group or team of citizens in every city who are accountable and responsible for a quicker response. Sara Dodge suggests more public training and communication, starting in the schools and communities.
And Al Putnam of Greendale, Ind., says a thorough post-mortem is the key: “Take each incident apart after the fact, and use it as a tool to develop a report card. It can be a roadmap to success in the next event.”
YOUR THOUGHTS
We are looking for reader feedback. E-mail landerson@primediabusiness.com and tell us what you think!
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© 2008 Penton Media Inc.
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