National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
1
ANGUILLA
NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN
17/02/2012
PART 1
NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN
2012
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 ABBREVATIONS ...........................................................................................................4 2 DISASTER DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................5 3 INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................................7 4 NATIONAL PLAN AIM ................................................................................................8 5 NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN ORGANISATION ....................................................8 6 NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN COMPONENTS .......................................................8 7 ASSUMPTIONS ............................................................................................................10 8 AUTHORITY .................................................................................................................11 9 THE NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE .............................11 10 THE NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE ............................11 11 NDMC SUB-COMMITTEES .......................................................................................12 12 NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (NDMAC)
14 13 DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT ..................................................14 14 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE.......................................................15 15 RESPONSIBILITIES BY GENERIC FUNCTION: ...................................................16 16 MITIGATION ................................................................................................................17 17 HAZARD, VULNERABILITY and RISK ASSESSMENTS ....................................17 18 TRAINING .....................................................................................................................17 19 PUBLIC EDUCATION and INFORMATION............................................................17 20 PREPAREDNESS and EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESPONSIBILITIES ............18 21 NATIONAL DIRECTION ............................................................................................18 22 THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (NEOC) ....................18 23 EXTERNAL ASSISTANCE .........................................................................................19 24 WARNINGS ..................................................................................................................21 25 EMMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS....................................................................21 26 HEALTH and MEDICAL CARE .................................................................................22 27 NATIONAL DISASTER INFORMATION and MEDIA HANDLING ...................23 28 EVACUATION ..............................................................................................................24 29 SHELTER .......................................................................................................................25 30 RELIEF ...........................................................................................................................25 31 DAMAGE ASSESSMENT and NEEDS ANALYSIS ................................................26 32 RESTORATION of PUBLIC UTILITIES, Road Clearance and DEBRIS REMOVAL
27 33 SEARCH and RESCUE ................................................................................................27 34 CASUALTY HANDLING and INFORMATION ......................................................27 35 SUMMARY OF PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE RESPONSIBILITIES .......28 36 MICUH ...........................................................................................................................28 37 CUSTOMS .....................................................................................................................29 38 IMMIGRATION ............................................................................................................30 39 ROYAL ANGUILLA POLICE FORCE ......................................................................30 40 ANGUILLA FIRE and RESCUE SERVICE ...............................................................31 41 General Manager ANGLEC ..........................................................................................31 42 CIVIL AVIATION ........................................................................................................31
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
3
43 ANGUILLA RED CROSS ............................................................................................32 44 TOURIST BOARD ........................................................................................................32 45 INDEX ............................................................................................................................33
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
4
1 ABBREVATIONS
AFRS Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service
ANDP Anguilla National Disaster Plan
ANGLEC Anguilla Electricity Company
ATB Anguilla Tourist Board
CDEMA Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency
CDM Comprehensive Disaster Management
CDMS Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy
DANA Damage and Needs Assessment
DDM Department of Disaster Management
DEG Disaster Executive Group
DFID Department of International Development
ECLA Economic Commission for Latin America
EDIC Economic Development Company
FCO Foreign Commonwealth Office
HF High Frequency
LSS Logistic Support System
MICUH Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing,
MSD Ministry of Social Development
NDMC National Disaster Management Committee
NDMAC National Disaster Management Advisory Committee
NEOC National Emergency Operations Office
NGO Non- Governmental Organization
PACS Position Action Checklists
PEHO Principal Environmental Health Officer
PIO Public Information Officer
RAPF Royal Anguilla Police Force
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
5
2 DISASTER DEFINITIONS
Comprehensive Disaster Management:
The management of all hazards, through all phases of the disaster
management cycle – prevention and mitigation, preparedness,
response, recovery –by public and private sectors, all segments of
civil society and the general population in hazard prone areas.
Disaster: A serious disruption of the functioning of a society, causing
widespread human, material, or environmental losses which
exceeds the ability of the affected society to cope using its own
resources.
Disaster Management: A collective term encompassing all aspects of planning for and
responding to emergencies and disasters, including both pre and
post event activities. It refers to the management of both the risk
and consequences of an event.
Emergency: A serious disruption of life which causes or threatens death or
injury to numbers of people, extensive damage to property or,
contamination of the environment, on a scale beyond the capacity
of the services for the public, operating under normal conditions,
and requiring the special mobilisation and organisation of those
services.
Hazard: Natural or man-made occurrences that pose a threat to people,
property and the environment and are capable of causing a disaster
or emergency. Hazards include earthquakes, fire, explosion,
chemical spillage, flood, epidemics, hurricanes, landslide, storm
surge, tidal wave or volcanic eruption.
Mitigation: Measures taken to reduce both the effect of the hazard itself and
the vulnerable conditions to it in order to reduce the scale of a
future disaster. Therefore mitigation activities can be focused on
the hazard itself or the propensity to be damaged of the elements
exposed to the threat.
Preparedness: Measures taken to reduce to the minimum level possible, the loss
of human life and damage to property, through the organizing of
effective measures which will ensure timely and appropriate
responses to a given hazard.
Recovery: Short term rehabilitation and longer-term reconstruction measures
taken to achieve a rapid and durable recovery that does not
reproduce the original vulnerable conditions.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
6
Response: Actions carried out immediately before, during and after a hazard
impact, which are aimed at saving lives, reducing economic losses
and alleviating suffering.
Risk: A measure of the expected losses due to a hazard event of a
particular magnitude occurring in a given area over a specific time
period.
Vulnerability: The extent to which a community, structure, service or geographic
area is likely to be damaged or disrupted by the impact of a
particular hazard.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
7
ANGUILLA NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN
3 INTRODUCTION
3.1 There is potential for Anguilla to experience negative impacts from several natural and
human-caused hazards. These include:
Hurricanes and tropical storms; winds, storm surge and wave action
Rainfall induced floods and landslides
Drought
Earthquakes
Oil and Hazardous material spills
Aviation accidents
Road transport accidents
Environmental hazards
Health and epidemic
Marine accidents
Fire and explosion
Utilities shortages
Security threats, etc.
3.2 The consequences of large hazard events, such as hurricanes, or those of smaller intensity
such as a maritime accident or air crash, will always be of greater consequence in smaller
communities. Anguilla is no exception. Relative isolation, limited redundancy in key
facilities and an economy predominantly driven by tourism, make Anguilla
disproportionately vulnerable.
3.3 In April 2005 Executive Council Endorsed a medium-term “Comprehensive Disaster
Management Strategy” (CDMS) designed to assist the Government and People of Anguilla
to significantly reduce vulnerability to hazards of all kinds by integrating all hazards risk
reduction into the national decision making and development planning processes. The
strategy, with an emphasis on pre-emptive hazard preparedness and risk reduction
(mitigation) is designed to ensure Anguilla has the capabilities to:
Identify, assess and monitor disaster risks to inform appropriate investments in risk
reduction.
Be prepared for all likely hazards occurrences and able to manage an effective
response to minimise losses and hasten recovery
Reduce risks where possible and ensure development itself does not build future risks
(i.e. development is not sustainable if it builds future risks).
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
8
4 NATIONAL PLAN AIM
To provide a national overarching framework for co-ordination, collaboration cooperation and
the introduction of appropriate mechanisms for all hazard disaster risk reduction at all phases:
Preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation.
5 NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN ORGANISATION
5.1 This National Disaster Plan outlines structures, roles, responsibilities, general protocols
and authority for all phases of disaster management and for all hazards. The national
structure generally remains the same to plan for and reduce the impacts of all hazard
events.
5.2 While the causes of disasters and emergencies vary greatly (according to hazard types)
their potential effects do not. For this reason, preparedness and emergency management
responsibilities are allocated within the plan for GENERIC FUNCTIONS such as co-
ordination, evacuation, shelter, mass casualty management, damage and needs assessment,
etc. These Generic functions are required to mitigate against, and respond to, most hazards
types and events.
5.3 However, as each hazard type has different characteristics, adjustments are required for
each. To cater for these the National Plan contains Part 2 – NATIONAL RESPONSE
PLAN identifies specific functions and tasks to be performed by specific positions within
the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) over a timeline. For hurricanes and
tropical storms, this timeline starts at 120 hours, for immediate or no notice incidents, the
timeline starts at IMPACT. Following this, Part 3 - HAZARD and FUNCTIONAL
SPECIFIC ANNEXES (e.g. for Hurricanes, Oil Spill, etc) are being developed that detail
additional specific hazard actions and procedures required for different hazard types within
the over-arching disaster management structure and generic function responsibilities (e.g.
warning and shelter arrangements for hurricanes or Public Information and Media Policy
for a Maritime incident).
5.4 It is to be noted that over time all hazard and functional plans will be migrated to the
Standard national plan format thus reducing duplication and mitigating conflicting
information in revised and updated plans.
6 NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN COMPONENTS
6.1 Part I - The National Disaster Plan (NDP) is an over-arching document and organisational
framework that is supported by further plans and strategies for all phases of disaster
management and for all hazard types.
6.2 Part II - The National Response Plan (NRP) to ensure adequate capabilities and resources
exist for timely and efficient emergency response. The NRP provides standard operating
procedures, templates and other supporting documentation to facilitate tracking of incident
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
9
status, recovery, response and ongoing operations. The NEOC is the central focal point for
activities undertaken in response to all hazards by collecting and analyzing information,
coordinating response planning, locating, accessing and distributing resources, and
communicating necessary directions to emergency responders.
6.3 Part III - Generic function contingency plans (sub-plans or annexes, alternatively title
Emergency Support Functions) outlining policies and procedures to for a variety of actions
that may be applied to most hazard scenarios (e.g. Shelter, Mass Casualty Management,
Relief Distribution, Damage and Needs Assessment). Within each of these plans, those
tasked with operational functions are expected to prepare standard operating procedures
detailing how functions will be implemented under varying hazard scenarios.
6.4 Part IV - Hazard specific contingency plans (sub plans or annexes) outlining mitigation,
preparedness and response activities to differing hazard scenarios. Some of these include:
Hurricane Plan
Oil Spill Plan
Health Sector Mass Casualty Plans
Airport And Aviation Plan
Emergency Services Major Incident Plan
Land based Search and Rescue
Ferryboat and Waterborne Incident Plan
6.5 Part V - A Recovery Plan to facilitate the return to normal social and economic conditions
as quickly as possible and to ensure more permanent protection and improvement to pre-
disaster conditions.
6.6 Part VI - A National Mitigation (risk reduction) strategy outlining procedures and activities
aimed at ensuring that risk reduction is an integral part of the sustainable development
process in Anguilla.
6.7 Part VII - Government Continuity of Business Plan that is supported by continuity plans of
each Government Department or Agency.
6.8 Part VIII – Business and Development Emergency Plans for large development such as
Viceroy/Carillion.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
10
7 ASSUMPTIONS
7.1 All sections of the National Disaster Plan will be informed by hazard vulnerability analysis
and assessments as data and skills are available. Risk assessments are fundamental to the
preparation of all risk reduction strategies.
7.2 The plan and its contents will be regularly monitored, reviewed, tested and subsequently
updated. The Director Disaster Management is bound by disaster legislation to review and
facilitate as necessary the updating of the National Disaster Plan.
7.3 That the Government of Anguilla endorses the National Disaster Plan, providing the
finances, trained human resources and administrative facilitation required for its
implementation.
7.4 A continuous disaster management capability enhancement programme, incorporating
training and resource allocation, will be co-ordinated by the Department of Disaster
Management to ensure that government agencies, the private sector and vulnerable
communities are able to meet plan requirements.
7.5 The private sector, non-governmental organizations and civil society support and
contribute to the effectiveness and maintenance of the plan. The plan as agreed by the
National Disaster Management Committee (NDMC) will be publicised and made freely
available within Anguilla excepting the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC)
operating procedures and resource lists containing confidential content.
7.6 Each agency, organisation or individual tasked with a responsibility within the National
Disaster Plan will ensure adequate training and allocate resources to enable them to
discharge that responsibility. Each will continue to develop their individual Department
Business Continuity Plan and operational procedures in support of the National Disaster
Plan and provide tangible support to the National Disaster Management Committee.
7.7 That disaster management planning and risk reduction becomes a normative, integral part
of the national development effort.
7.8 Each disaster or hazard event impacts differently, requiring a different response. All parties
must be prepared for adaptation and improvisation under disaster/emergency conditions.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
11
8 AUTHORITY
8.1 The Disaster Management Act 2007 provides for the effective organisation of the
preparedness, management, mitigation of, response to and recovery from emergencies and
disasters, natural and man-made, in Anguilla.
8.2 The Governor is empowered under the Emergency Powers Act, Revised Statutes of Anguilla,
Chapter E45 (2000) to give the police and disaster management organisations additional
powers, as required, for the protection of lives and property.
9 THE NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
9.1 Disaster management and the protection of the sustainable future of Anguilla are the
responsibility of all Government agencies and sectors of the population. The National
CDM Strategy, Disaster Management legislation and membership of CDEMA commits
Anguilla to all hazard risk reduction at all phases of disaster management; mitigation,
preparedness, emergency response and recovery.
9.2 His Excellency the Governor has final responsibility for coordinating the general policy of
the Government relating to the mitigation of, preparedness for, response to and recovery
from disasters and emergencies in Anguilla. This authority is exercised in consultation
with the Government of Anguilla and the National Disaster Management Committee.
10 THE NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
10.1 The National Disaster Management Committee is the central review and policy
formulation body for disaster management, instigating national strategies and supporting
work programmes for all phases of disaster management; mitigation, preparedness,
emergency response and recovery. The National Disaster Management Committee
comprises:
The Governor or, in his absence, the Deputy Governor, as Chairman;
A Government Minister;
The Director, Department of Disaster Management:
Such other persons as may be nominated by the Governor in Council to represent—
i. the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA),
ii. the Ministry of Social Development (MSD),
iii. the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Investment, Commerce and
Tourism (MoFEDICT),
iv. the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, Utilities, Housing (MICUH),
v. the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF),
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
12
vi. the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service (AFRS),
vii. the Anguilla Tourist Board (ATB),
viii. the Health Authority of Anguilla, and
ix. such other Ministries, Departments of Government and government agencies as
the Governor in Council thinks fit; and
10.2 In “normal,” non-disaster or emergency times the NDMC provides guidance to the
Governor and Executive Council on disaster and emergency related issues.
10.3 During hazard events or emergencies, members are responsible for the continuity of
operations of their agencies or ministries as well as providing support to the National
Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
11 NDMC SUB-COMMITTEES
The NDMC is supported by and is organised into three sub-committees responsible for ensuring
that strategies, procedures, and resources are in place to address a cross section of
disaster/emergency functions and anticipated hazard scenarios.
11.1 Strategic Planning sub-committee
11.1.1 Members include:
Permanent Secretary, EDICT
Director, Economic Planning
Chief Statistician
Director, Planning Department
Director, Lands and Surveys
Director, Environment Department
Director, Fisheries
Director, Tourist Board
Representative AHTA
Chairman Financial Services Committee
Chief Engineer
Chamber of Commerce
11.1.2 The sub-committee is responsible for ensuring strategies, procedures and resources are in
place for the following:
Damage Analysis and Needs Assessment
National Recovery Plan
The National Disaster Mitigation Strategy
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
13
11.2 Essential Services sub committee
11.2.1 Members include:
Commissioner of Police
Permanent Secretary, MICUH
ANGLEC
Building Inspector MICUH
Lime
Water Department
Caribbean Cable Communications
Senior Air Traffic Comptroller
Superintendent of Ports
Comptroller of Customs
Chief Immigration Officer
Chief Fire Officer
Principal Environmental Health Officer
Labour Commissioner
Director of ITES
11.2.2 The sub-committee is responsible for ensuring strategies, procedures and resources are in
place for the following:
Major Incident Plan
Security/Law and Order
Search and Rescue
Utilities restoration
Evacuation
Debris clearance and access (roads, airport and ports)
Ferryboat plan
Oil Spill Plan
The Public Health and Safety Group
Telecommunication and Warning System
11.3 A Community Services sub committee
11.3.1 Members include:
Permanent Secretary, Health and Social Development
Permanent Secretary Education
Permanent Secretary Public Administration
Commissioner of Social Development
Director Housing
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
14
Director, Tourist Board
Representative AHTA
Anguilla Red Cross
CEO of Health Authority
Health Disaster Coordinator/CMO
Principal Environmental Health Officer
Anguilla Christian Council
Anguilla Evangelical Association
Service Clubs
Chamber of Commerce
11.3.2 The sub-committee is responsible for ensuring strategies, procedures and resources are in
place for the following:
Medical and First Aid, including mass casualty and infectious disease plans.
Shelter plans and operational procedures
Relief procurement and distribution
Tourism, Information sent to and received from this sector
11.3.3 As risks change or requirements are identified or prioritised, responsibilities will be
allocated to respective sub-committees by the NDMC.
12 NATIONAL DISASTER MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE (NDMAC)
12.1 A National Disaster Management Advisory Committee is required under the 2007 National
Disaster Management Act. Required to meet at least twice a year, the primary purpose of
the NDMAC is to further build private and community involvement and contributions to
national disaster management, strategies, and to ensure these are inclusive and responsive
to broad community needs. The committee reviews and offers advice on disaster
management initiatives, implementation mechanisms and the activities of the National
Disaster Management Committee and the Department of Disaster Management.
12.2 The NDMAC is chaired by the Governor, or in his absence, the Deputy Governor. The
Chief Minister (or his representative) is a member as are other persons appointed by the
Governor from among Government Ministers, private sector officials and other members
of the Anguillian community. The Director, Department of Disaster Management is the
secretary of the National Disaster Management Advisory Committee.
13 DEPARTMENT OF DISASTER MANAGEMENT
13.1 The main executing agency established by the National Disaster Management Committee
is the Department for Disaster Management (DDM) that operates under the authority of the
Deputy Governor’s Office.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
15
13.2 The DDM is the government department tasked with overseeing, planning, coordinating
and managing the Comprehensive disaster management (CDM) programme for Anguilla.
The department has a particular emphasis on building national capabilities for pre-emptive
disaster risk reduction and preparedness. The main functions of the DDM are to:
Develop, recommend and advise on National CDM policies to the NDMC.
Serve as the Secretariat to the NDMC and its sub-committees.
Be responsible for the development, co-ordination and monitoring of the national
CDM implementation strategy to reduce Anguilla’s vulnerability to all hazard types.
Ensure capacities are in place to conduct risk assessments, monitor hazards and
disseminate information on Anguilla’s vulnerability.
Maintain and update the National Disaster Plan and ensure multi-hazard plans are
developed for all sectors in Anguilla.
Facilitate and monitor business continuity plans for all Government departments.
Provide advice for national planning and development programmes.
Co-ordinate training and capacity development initiatives to achieve appropriate
levels of all hazard preparedness.
Manage and maintain a fully equipped and functioning National Emergency
Operations Centre (NEOC) able to co-ordinate the national response to all threats and
events.
Conduct and co-ordinate public awareness and education programmes for all sectors
of society in line with the national disaster management policy.
Promote and assist the implementation and institutionalisation of disaster
management activities in all sectors of society.
14 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT STRUCTURE
Under emergency or disaster conditions, the committee process ends with the activation of the
National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC).
14.1 The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC)
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
16
In the case of warning or occurrence of either a national emergency or disaster event, the
Governor or Deputy Governor, on the advice of the Director Disaster Management, and, if
possible, after consultation with the Chief Minister, may activate the NEOC to co-ordinate the
emergency or disaster response efforts.
14.2 NEOC Command Structure
The NEOC is organised into three groups:
1) Disaster Executive Group (DEG)
2) Emergency Management Group (EMG)
3) Operations Group
When the NEOC is activated, the DEG defines policy, priorities and strategic
direction before, during or following a disaster or emergency.
The Emergency Management Group and Operations Group implements the strategies
of the DEG, co-ordinates the operational response and presents information and
strategic options to the DEG.
A full description of the NEOC structure and composition of the NEOC is contained
in Part 2 of the National Plan: National Response Plan.
The DEG comprises:
HE the Governor
Chief Minister
Deputy Governor
Attorney General
Commissioner of Police
Director Disaster Management
Other persons invited to attend by the Governor
If conditions do not allow for the Disaster Executive Group to convene, the Governor may
exercise sole direction of the NEOC though consultation with the Chief Minister is expected.
15 RESPONSIBILITIES BY GENERIC FUNCTION:
The following responsibilities are assigned to functions that are “Generic” or “Cross-cutting.”
That is they are generally required to mitigate against, co-ordinate and respond to, all disaster or
emergency events (see section 4).
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
17
Where different responsibilities, actions and procedures are required to address the differing
characteristics of different hazard types, these are allocated within the hazard specific annexes.
16 MITIGATION
16.1 A National Mitigation Strategy
16.1.1 The Strategic Planning Committee is responsible, in concert with the DDM, for
developing a mitigation strategy in support of the National CDM Strategy.
16.1.2 The DDM will provide advice for national planning and development programmes.
16.1.3 The Director DDM holds a position on the Land Development Control Committee.
17 HAZARD, VULNERABILITY and RISK ASSESSMENTS
The DDM in collaboration with the NDMC will co-ordinate with relevant government
agencies (e.g. the fire department for hazardous materials) to monitor all hazards that
threaten Anguilla, their likely impacts and the vulnerability to them.
Each Government Agency or Department tasked with taking a lead role in the
development of a section or study are guided by the Disaster Act to provide the
required input and documentation as requested.
These risk assessments will inform and guide the National CDM Strategy,
preparedness and development planning.
18 TRAINING
The DDM, under the auspices of the NDMC, is responsible for identifying training needs
at the national level and formulating a CDM specific yearly training programme for
approval by NDMC.
Government agencies retain responsibility for ensuring they possess the necessary
capabilities to enable them to discharge their disaster management duties.
19 PUBLIC EDUCATION and INFORMATION
The DDM, in collaboration with the Public Information Officer and the Media co-ordination
group under its direction, is responsible to the NDMC for implementing public information
programmes to build pre-disaster public awareness and self-reliance.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
18
20 PREPAREDNESS and EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESPONSIBILITIES
The DDM, in collaboration with first responder departments and the National Emergency
Operations Center structure is responsible to the NDMC for coordination and communication
during a NEOC activation or event wherein DDM or NEOC support is requested. The DDM fills
a facilitation role and is not to be confused as the Command for a disaster response. The DDM is
responsible per the Disaster Act for coordination of preparedness and providing the guidance for
mitigation, response, recovery and preparedness planning.
21 NATIONAL DIRECTION
In the case of warning or occurrence of either a national emergency or disaster event, a decision
will be taken by the Governor, after consultation with the Chief Minister if possible, or on the
advice of the Director DDM, to call together the DEG. If deemed necessary the NEOC will be
activated (either simultaneously or consequently).
Subsequent to the meeting of the DEG, the Governor or Deputy Governor in consultation with
the Director Disaster Management may call a meeting of the National Disaster Management
Committee.
22 THE NATIONAL EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTRE (NEOC)
22.1 The Director DDM is responsible to establish a primary NEOC capable of serving and co-
ordinating national disaster or emergency response activities to all hazard types should it
be required.
22.2 If the NEOC is convened, it follows the policy directions and priorities set by the DEG,
exercising overall direction, co-ordination and control of disaster or emergency operations.
22.3 Leadership of the NEOC varies according to responsibilities allocated to different hazard
types and established hazard specific plans or annexes for example:
Hazard Scenario Lead Responsibility
Major Incident RAPF
Oil Spill Department of Fisheries/ Environment
Hazardous Materials Anguilla Fire and Rescue
Air accident Air and Sea Ports Authority, Airport Manager
Marine and Ferry Boat Accident RAPF
Hurricane DDM
Flood DDM
Earthquake DDM
Land Search and Rescue Anguilla Fire and Rescue
Marine Search and Rescue RAPF
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
19
Mass Casualty Medical Response Health Authority
Mass Casualty incident Command RAPF
22.4 First Responders to emergencies remain the Fire, Police and Health Services. When it is
decided an incident requires a national coordinated multi-agency response the NEOC is
activated as appropriate. Details on levels of response and specific operations are located in
Section 2 Emergency Response Plan (NRP) of this National Disaster Plan (NDP).
22.5 The National Emergency Operations Centre is located at the Police Head quarters, The
Valley.
22.6 The functions of the NEOC are as follows:
The NEOC is the centralised management and information centre able to facilitate policy
making, co-ordination and overall direction when responding to large-scale emergency or
disaster situations.
To co-ordinate emergency control operations in a fashion that is timely, appropriate,
effective and efficient.
To gain and present a clear picture of the scope of the situation throughout Anguilla
based on information received in the NEOC.
22.7 The DDM is responsible for ensuring NEOC resources are suitable and in a state of
readiness for all disaster/emergency requirements.
22.8 The DDM will prepare and update NEOC guidelines and operations procedures, ensuring
training and familiarity with responsibilities of all NEOC officers. Clear direction will be
given on the organisation, responsibilities and management procedures for different hazard
events.
23 EXTERNAL ASSISTANCE
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
20
23.1 The Governor is ultimately responsible for all external relationships and thus for all
external assistance no matter where from: the regional response mechanism, foreign
governments or foreign organisations.
23.2 The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is the official
regional disaster response mechanism for Anguilla.
23.3 Under the international disaster system, CDEMA and all external assistance will be co-
ordinated via the United Nations Regional Co-ordinator in Barbados. This co-ordination
embraces all resources (response teams and materials) offered by foreign governments,
international agencies, NGOs and the United Kingdom Government.
23.4 The UK is committed to assisting Anguilla during and after disasters and emergencies. The
UK has considerable resources and expertise for emergency response at its disposal. These
include military resources, emergency stockpiles, call down arrangements with specialist
agencies (with electricity companies, search and rescue organisations, logistical
organisations), and technical expertise. Depending on post disaster needs, these resources
may be made available to Anguilla after consultation with the Governor’s office, NEOC,
CDEMA and the UN co-ordinator in Barbados.
23.5 The Director, DDM should ensure there is a clear understanding of the assistance that will
be provided directly by the British Government and that which will come through CDEMA
and UN co-ordination.
23.6 Anguilla has bilateral understandings and relationships with other countries. Offers of
assistance can be requested and are anticipated from these sources. These should be co-
ordinated with CDEMA and the UN co-ordinator.
23.7 External NGOs and Civic groups can make significant contributions when external
assistance is needed. These should be co-ordinated with CDEMA and UN co-ordinator.
23.8 All requests to foreign governments or external agencies, or any actions proposed by
foreign governments or external agencies, must be approved by the DEG prior to
implementation or agreement.
23.9 The NEOC Director is to inform the DEG of contact with all external agencies including
the regional response mechanism.
23.10 The Governor’s office to ensure the FCO is aware of all contacts with external agencies,
including the offers of external assistance and subsequent decisions.
23.11 In the absence of NEOC activation, the Director DDM must inform and seek approval of
the Governor’s Office for any external emergency assistance that falls outside of existing
memoranda of understanding, bilateral agreements or international protocols.
23.12 Requesting assistance from CDEMA or the United Kingdom does not require a disaster
declaration.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
21
23.13 The external liaison officer, normally a Governor’s office staff member, is responsible for
NEOC contact with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and DFID CHASE.
23.14 The Director DDM, will maintain communications with the regional response mechanism,
UN co-ordinator and bilateral agencies.
23.15 Once requests and actions are agreed by the DEG, the NEOC or DDM implements the co-
ordination of all external emergency assistance. For operational matters there can be direct
communication by the Director DDM and NEOC Officers with foreign agencies once
DEG approval is received.
23.16 The DEG shall be regularly updated with the status of all external emergency assistance.
24 WARNINGS
24.1 The Director DDM or the lead agency for a specific hazard, in consultation with the
Deputy Governor or DEG, is responsible for deciding whether and when to issue warnings
for any potential hazard to the public.
24.2 The DDM will release and disseminate warnings to the media and all sectors of the
population in the case of hurricane, tropical storms or extreme weather. The DDM is
responsible for the maintenance and functioning of the “National Hurricane and tropical
storm forecast and action plan.”
24.3 The DDM will maintain links with a variety of sources; National Hurricane Centre, Civil
Aviation, Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services. .
24.4 Anguilla does not have their own meteorological services and therefore, by agreement of
the World Meteorological Organisation, fall within the area for which Antigua has
responsibility for issuing tropical storm/hurricane warnings and advising on the best course
of action taken when there is a weather related threat such as a hurricane.
24.5 Radio Anguilla and other national media houses will only broadcast official information
and warnings received from, and cleared by the DDM, NDMC or NEOC when activated.
25 EMMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
22
25.1 The DDM is responsible for the functioning and maintenance of the NEOC emergency
communications networks and equipment, both internal and external (via satellite, vhf and
HF radio).
25.2 The DDM is responsible for developing and maintaining an effective warning
dissemination and call out notification system for the NEOC.
25.3 The Essential Services sub-committee is responsible for ensuring organisations tasked with
duties within the National Plan have durable communications equipment able to maintain
emergency links between the NEOC, the Police, Fire Service, Hospitals and all essential
services.
26 HEALTH and MEDICAL CARE
26.1 Direction and co-ordination for Health Disaster Planning rests with the Community
Services Sub Committee to the NDMC.
26.2 The Chief Executive Officer of the Health Authority of Anguilla, under the direction of the
Ministry of Health, is responsible for the preparation and maintenance of mass casualty
and health disaster plans outlining policies and procedures for mobilising and managing
health and medical services (including environmental health, private medical practices and
Red Cross first aiders) under all emergency or disaster conditions. Plans will include
provisions for:
Establishment of medical command posts at the emergency disaster site(s)
Co-ordinating health and medical team efforts
Triage if appropriate
Medical care and transport for the injured
Identification, transportation and disposition of the deceased
Isolating, decontaminating and treating victims of hazardous materials or infectious
diseases
Issuing health and medical advisories to the public
Epidemic or pandemic outbreak
Mechanisms for treatment and transport overseas
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
23
26.3 It shall be the duty of the CEO to determine and ensure that stocks of drugs and resources
are appropriate to anticipated mass casualty scenarios.
26.4 The CEO is solely responsible for deciding upon the distribution of medical supplies to all
clinics, hospitals and emergency shelters, together with the deployment of health personnel
and volunteers.
26.5 The Health Authority is responsible for reporting the extensiveness of deaths and
casualties. Strict epidemiological surveillance will be maintained and mass immunization
initiated only under the direction of the CEO.
26.6 The Health Authority is responsible for identifying suitable sites for emergency hospitals
and for the provision of equipment, staffing, emergency power, water and sanitation to
serve these.
26.7 Health Authority plans include responsibility and procedures for co-ordinating the
activities of private medical agencies and voluntary groups (especially Red Cross First
Aiders).
26.8 Measures will be taken to ensure that sufficient persons in the community are trained in
First Aid by setting up First Aid training programmes among key groups
26.9 The Health Authority will ensure all medical facilities; equipment and stores are suitably
protected or resilient.
26.10 Subject to direction from the NEOC, the Principal Environmental Health Officer (PEHO)
will organise a health team to inspect private buildings and water supplies as a public
health measure. The PEHO will ensure that all solid waste is not disposed of
indiscriminately to avoid an epidemic.
27 NATIONAL DISASTER INFORMATION and MEDIA HANDLING
27.1 The DDM has direct responsibility for establishing systems for the co-ordination of
disaster public information and communication with national and international media
before (i.e. in a warning period), during and after disasters and emergencies.
27.2 The DDM is assisted by a Public Information Officer and Media Co-ordination Group
responsible for maintenance of the National Media plan, standard operating procedures and
press protocols.
27.3 When the NEOC is convened the PIO is charged with ensuring the public receives
information in a timely and effective manner and serves as the official channel of
information to local and overseas media throughout an emergency or disaster event.
27.4 The DDM will manage a national disaster awareness programme to educate the public
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
24
about natural and man-made disasters, safe practice and the role the public can play in risk
reduction.
28 EVACUATION
28.1 The Essential Services NDMC sub-committee is responsible for maintaining evacuation
plans and procedures for vulnerable areas and persons.
28.2 Evacuation plans will include provision for off island evacuation of tourists or visitors.
28.3 The DDM will co-ordinate risk assessments to inform evacuation plans.
28.4 The Police take the lead operational role in organising the evacuation of populations living
in vulnerable areas to designated shelters or safe locations.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
25
29 SHELTER
29.1 The Community Services’ NDMC sub-committee is allocated responsibility for ensuring
the availability of Emergency Shelters in the event of a disaster so as to provide protection
and temporary shelter to evacuated persons and disaster victims.
29.2 The Community Services committee will develop plans and procedures detailing how
shelters will be staffed and managed. These will articulate measures required to provide
food, water, emergency power, sanitation and health care at these shelters as well as
transportation.
29.3 Before the start of each yearly hurricane season all shelters will be approved by a structural
engineer and necessary repairs made.
29.4 All shelters are to have their own management plan outlining staffing, materials,
occupancy capacity and room usage. To be reviewed yearly.
29.5 Each year a list of all available shelters will be publicised and distributed by the DDM to
all Government agencies, NGOs, the private sector and sectors of the population.
29.6 Post disaster or emergency, and once the NEOC has been de-activated, the Ministry for
Social Development assumes responsibility for organising rehabilitation and resettlement
of homeless persons.
30 RELIEF
30.1 The Community Services sub-committee to the NDMC is responsible for maintaining a
National Relief Plan and appropriate resources for it to function effectively for all likely
emergency/disaster scenarios.
30.2 The National Relief plan will contain mechanisms that:
Allow for the procurement and distribution of adequate supplies of food, water and
essential materials.
Ensure the availability of relief items throughout the year
Identify special needs before and during an emergency or disaster event
Outline responsibilities and procedures for the receipt, transport, storage and equitable
distribution of relief items
Articulate the responsibilities and contribution of the Red Cross, Churches, Service clubs
and community volunteers.
Allow relief to be co-ordinated within NEOC operations
30.3 The National Relief Plan and supporting procedures will be tested and updated on a yearly
basis.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
26
31 DAMAGE ASSESSMENT and NEEDS ANALYSIS
31.1 The strategic planning sub-committee to the NDMC is responsible for maintaining the
Anguilla DANA plan and implementation procedures designed to enable government and
NGO’s to implement a comprehensive damage assessment process that will meet the needs
for emergency response and planning needs.
31.2 The plan will be based on CDEMA’s modified DANA framework that establishes the
process and timeframe within which damage assessments should take place if a timely and
appropriate response is to be mounted and relief provided. Three stages are envisaged:
Stage 1: Initial Damage Assessment / Windshield Survey
31.3 An initial assessment is required to inform immediate response and relief actions.
Compiled from preliminary surveys or reports, it will allow a general understanding of
damages, extent of any casualties and initial needs of the population. An initial report
should be generated by the NEOC within the first 4-8 hours according to a standard first
stage reporting form. This report will be sent to CDEMA and DFID as a triggering
mechanism for national and regional responses (e.g. Regional Response Mechanisms
[RRM]).
Stage 2: Preliminary Impact Assessments
31.4 To be conducted within the first seven (7) days after the all clear has been given, the main
objective is to obtain more detailed and specific information on damages and needs.
31.5 A damage report is to be prepared and submitted through the NEOC to CDEMA and
FCO/DFID after the first 48hrs. Daily (24hr) – updates or sit-reps are to be provided for
the remaining period up to 7 days.
31.6 A comprehensive report should be generated at the end of the 7-day period to include
detailed household and physical damage data, preliminary direct damage costs and further
response or specific specialized needs.
Stage 3: Detailed assessments and surveys by all sectors
31.7 To be conducted within 21 days of impact, the objective of this phase is to produce a
detailed damage assessment report to include quantification of physical damage, direct
damage costs and recommendations to inform the recovery process.
31.8 This assessment, along with a quantification of indirect costs, may then be used towards
macro economic assessments (e.g. using the ECLAC methodology) that are used to inform
longer term recovery planning.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
27
32 RESTORATION of PUBLIC UTILITIES, Road Clearance and DEBRIS REMOVAL
32.1 The Essential Services Sub-Committee is responsible for ensuring plans and resources are
in place to:
Ensure clearance, restoration and access to roads, airports, ports and communications
Allocate and supervise the development of transportation requirements
Restore all public utilities (water and sewerage, electricity) as soon as possible
Co-ordinate the removal of debris, trees, stones, etc, which may pose a danger or impede
movement.
Plans will give priority to restoring utilities and access to critical facilities; the hospital,
shelters, airport, etc. Where possible clearance machinery will be kept safe and pre-
positioned.
The committee will prepare yearly lists of heavy equipment and agreements with
contractors (e.g. payment schedules).
33 SEARCH and RESCUE
Essential Services sub-committee to the NDMC are tasked with formulating plans for land based
and marine search and rescue in the event of a hazard or emergency.
Marine Police have a specific responsibility for developing and maintaining Maritime search and
rescue procedures and resources
The Anguilla Fire Service is the lead land based search and rescue response agency taking a lead
role in developing and maintaining land based search and rescue procedures and capabilities
34 CASUALTY HANDLING and INFORMATION
34.1 The RAPF have overall responsibility for casualty identification and for the provision of
information to next of kin and to the public via the Public Information Officer and Media
Group.
34.2 The RAPF will set up a Casualty Bureau if required by the scale of disaster event, major
incident or emergency. These activities are informed by the Major incident Plan
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
28
35 SUMMARY OF PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE RESPONSIBILITIES
(Details of all NEOC members’ responsibilities are outlined in the “Position Action Checklists”
– PACS – contained in section 2 of the National Response Plan).
35.1 Introduction
35.2 Each committee, ministry, department and organisation allocated responsibilities will
formulate its internal disaster management plans and operational procedures so as to
discharge their responsibilities as articulated in the National Disaster Plan, Hazard or
Functional annexes.
35.3 Each committee, department and organisation to submit its internal disaster management
plans to the Director, DDM each year, no later than March 31.
35.4 In cases where a Department is assigned specific responsibilities in this plan, ultimate
responsibility rests with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry concerned. The
Permanent Secretary must ensure that all members of staff involved are familiar with the
national and departmental plan.
35.5 These disaster management plans and operational procedures should detail:
Man power and resources availability and how they will be organised
Equipment and supplies (including back-up arrangements)
Procedures for evacuation (if necessary)
Provision for first aid and well being of staff
Agency business continuity
Communication and liaison with the NEOC
35.6 Government agencies are expected to continue to exercise their normal functions as far as
possible, before, during and after a disaster/emergency event.
35.7 The actions which Government agencies and NDMC representative will be required to be
performed and which should be detailed in departmental disaster plans and business
continuity plans are as follows:
36 MICUH
36.1 The PS MICUH is a member of the Essential Services sub-committee to the NDMC
36.2 The Chief Engineer is a member of the Essential Services Committee
MICUH duties include:
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
29
36.3 Inspection of all Government buildings and carrying out all necessary repairs to see they
are adequately prepared to withstand natural disasters [to include all shelters and medical
facilities (in conjunction with the Community Services Sub-Committee)].
36.4 The Chief Engineer shall report to the NDMC by 15 May that all repairs have been
completed and that hurricane shutters and protective measures are in place for all
Government buildings.
36.5 The Chief Engineer will maintain an inventory of equipment and supplies held by MICUH,
other government agencies and private contractors and builders. Private contractors will be
requested by Government, if it became vital in the public interest, to make their equipment
(e.g. back-hoes, bulldozers, etc) immediately available.
36.6 The clearing and maintenance of drains and drainage channels.
36.7 Provision of emergency transport services and stockpiling of fuel for emergency
operations. To include provision of transport for evacuation of vulnerable areas.
36.8 Protection and restoration of the water distribution plants. To stock emergency water and
containers for distribution in the event of failure.
36.9 Maintenance of emergency power generators.
36.10 Ensuring MICUH staff are fully equipped and trained members of Damage Analysis and
Needs Assessment teams
36.11 Clearance of airports, ports and roads, prioritising access to critical facilities.
36.12 Erection and maintenance of emergency shelters.
37 CUSTOMS
37.1 The Comptroller of Customs is a member of the Essential Services Committee
37.2 Preparation and protection of all Government warehouses so they are ready to receive
goods post impact.
37.3 Facilitation and management of emergency relief supplies using the Logistics Support
System (LSS).
37.4 Paper based registers, logs and documentation as back-up to electronic systems.
37.5 Yearly contribution to the review and testing of the National Relief Plan
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
30
38 IMMIGRATION
38.1 The speedy handling of documentation and permissions for all disaster service personnel
who may arrive to assist with relief and recovery operations after a disaster.
38.2 Procedures to facilitate and speed off island evacuations prior to and following a disaster
event.
38.3 To facilitate consular arrangements for foreigners including the preparation of nationality
lists when requested by the NDMC or NEOC.
39 ROYAL ANGUILLA POLICE FORCE
39.1 To protect life and property, and the control and prevention of vandalism
39.2 Traffic control to and from all disaster impact areas
39.3 Overall crowd control
39.4 Evacuation of buildings and vulnerable areas to safer areas/shelters
39.5 Security including that of shelters, emergency facilities, shores, ports (sea and air).
39.6 Lead agency for maintenance and testing of:
Marine Search and Rescue Plan
Major Incident Plan
Casualty Bureau
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
31
40 ANGUILLA FIRE and RESCUE SERVICE
40.1 Fire suppression and response
40.2 Responding to hazardous materials spillage
40.3 Land based search and rescue
40.4 First aid support to DANA teams
41 General Manager ANGLEC
41.1 Ensure adequate stocks of petroleum for power generation and other electrical supplies.
41.2 Post disaster/emergency to assess and report on damage to electrical installations, plants
and distribution
41.3 Arrange for early restoration of electricity, prioritising key facilities (medical facilities,
government buildings and the airport) as directed by the NEOC.
42 CIVIL AVIATION
42.1 The development and annual testing of Anguilla’s Airport emergency procedures plan,
including the writing of a special procedure to manage the effects of natural disasters.
42.2 Protection of Airport assets for earliest resumption of air access post hazard impact
42.3 Weather monitoring and provision of Meteorological technicians to the DDM/NEOC as
per protocol with the DDM.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
32
43 ANGUILLA RED CROSS
Subject to the MoU between the GoA and the Anguilla Branch of the British Red Cross to:
43.1 Assist with First Aid training.
43.2 Provide First Aiders to emergency shelters.
43.3 Provide first aid to disaster/emergency victims and assist medical personnel.
43.4 Provide relief supplies (clothes and food) and assist with distribution.
43.5 Mobilise volunteers in support of the Incident response
43.6 Liaise with and make arrangements for external assistance from the International
Federation of Red Cross Societies.
43.7 Assist with tracing of missing persons.
44 TOURIST BOARD
In close collaboration with Anguilla Hotel and Tourism Association and the Community
Services Sub-committee to:
44.1 Monitor and promote high standards of preparedness to the hotels and independent
travellers.
44.2 Ensure warnings and safety advice is disseminated to tourists and hotels.
44.3 Compile lists of tourist, nationalities, and available details (names, locations, etc,) for the
NDMC/NEOC; To include details of tour operators and airline shelter/evacuation
arrangements.
44.4 Attempt to ensure tourist needs are met when disaster/emergency threatens and strikes.
44.5 Protect the quality and reputation of Anguilla’s tourism product in collaboration with the
Media Group and NEOC Public Information Officers.
National Disaster Plan Part 1 Version 2.4 February 2012
33
45 INDEX
ANGLEC, 4, 13, 31
Casualty Handling, 26
CDEMA, 4, 11, 19, 20, 25
Civil Aviation, 21, 31
Community Services sub committee, 13
Comprehensive disaster management
(CDM), 14
Customs, 13, 29
Damage Assessment and Needs
Analysis, 25
Debris Removal, 26
Department of Disaster Management, 4,
10, 11, 14
Emergency Communications, 21
Emergency Response Responsibilities,
17
Essential Services sub committee, 13
Evacuation, 13, 23, 30
External Assistance, 19
Health and Medical Care, 21
Hurricane, 9
Immigration, 30
Information, 9
Media Handling, 23
MICUHAF, 4, 11, 13, 28, 29
Mitigation, 5, 9, 12, 17
National Disaster Advisory Management
Committee, 14
National Disaster Management
Committee, 4, 10, 11, 14, 18
National Disaster Plan, 4, 8, 10, 15, 19,
28
NATIONAL DISASTER PLAN, 1, 7, 8
National Emergency Operations Centre
(NEOC)., 12, 15
National Plan. See
NDMC, 33
NATIONAL PLAN, 8
National Response Plan, 8, 16, 28
NEOC, 4, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20,
21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 30, 31, 32
Planning, 9
Public Utilities, 26
RAPF, 4, 11, 18, 27
Red Cross, 13, 22, 24, 31, 32
Relief, 9, 14, 24, 25, 30
Resources, 9
Road Clearance, 26
Search and Rescue, 9, 13, 18, 26, 30
Shelter, 9, 14, 24
Strategic Planning sub-committee, 12
Tourist, 4, 12, 32
Training, 17
Warnings, 21