National Urban Search and Rescue Program Task Force Management
Managing a task force has evolved into a process requiring day-to-day oversight and responsibility. This is a significant change from the manner first used by many sponsoring agencies when the FEMA National US&R Response System began.
Once considered the function of the primary Task Force Leader, the multitude of requirements expected of a Task Force Leader has forced a re-focus on the needs of the system. In the Case of CA-TF-5 we have assigned a Task Force Leader and long time member of the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Urban Search and Rescue Program as the Program Manager.
Regardless of the person or the position held within the task force, a single focal point is required to ensure that communications are received, and, if actions are necessary, that the actions are delegated and/or completed in accordance with Federal requirements.
Program Manager
A task force has a single person designated as the Task Force Program Manager. For California Task Force 5 that person is Battalion Chief Rob Patterson. He is responsible to ensure:
- The documentation and reporting requirements associated with preparedness activities; including a Strategic Plan, Annual Work Plan, Training Plan, Mobilization Plan, and Corrective Action Plan;
- The agreements established between the task force and FEMA/DHHS, state agencies, local agencies, participating agencies, support agencies, contract services, and equipment and supply vendors are in proper status for readiness activities;
- Personnel rostering and qualifications requirements within the National US&R Response System;
- The requirements related to achieving the continued operational readiness of the task force; and
- The impact and value of establishing a family preparedness and support network for task force members.
Chief Patterson has the ability and resources to manage the US&R task force effectively for the Orange County Fire Authority as the Sponsoring Agency in fulfilling its obligation to FEMA. |