What does it take to integrate 32 organizations into one simulation?

We prepared and delivered a day-long crisis exercise for Pierce County, USA. The simulation involved Public Information Officers (PIOs) from 32 organizations across 4 counties in Washington State.  

For this emergency preparedness simulation, we designed a realistic dry run of a terrorist incident for each of the 4 counties. Each county was subject to a fictional high-impact terrorist attack in quick succession, escalating in severity each time.

Participants needed to coordinate and communicate internally to ensure consistent, appropriate messaging based on a common operating picture.

Participating agencies needed to coordinate with other government and private organizations on the dissemination of information, family response and other public affairs matters.

Participants included:

• Washington State Control
• Pierce County Sheriff’s Department
• King County Office of Emergency Management
• Tacoma Fire Department
• Northwest Healthcare Response Network