GIS May Be Key to the Future of Emergency Response

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the world became intimately familiar with the superbly designed, Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Dashboard. At the core of this powerful tool is GIS data. In the same way that this dashboard shared valuable information and statistics with the world, a locally-hosted dashboard can convey key metrics and important instructions for civilians via a GIS map-centric portal. Critical location-based data contained in GIS often includes mapped evacuation routes, wildfire perimeters, traditional, and pop-up first-aid facilities. The sharing of resources will improve the lines of communication between the public and first responders, making emergency response more effective and efficient.

Perhaps the most reliable form of GIS data creation is in-field data collection. Though developing data by interpreting engineering plans or by incorporating historical data is quite valuable, having a user’s eyes on a particular asset, facility, or land mass will provide the best account of a particular situation. As such, agencies have benefited greatly by deploying field teams to inventory and assess municipal assets. This is performed both prior to, and after storms, civil unrest, and other disasters. Pre- and post-event field observations can be compared and analyzed to reveal the areas in greatest need of recovery assistance. For first responders in particular, real-time data can make all the difference in their efforts. Historical data alone could leave vital information out of their reach.

A secondary benefit to developing map data within a GIS is the ability to use that real-time data during emergency dispatch. Because GIS data is created in real-world coordinates, it can be output to a variety of geospatial formats. The most common dispatch software products used by emergency responders include optional map display modules. These map modules can consume and visualize GIS data, thereby enhancing the call-takers ability to gain an accurate picture of an emergency’s location and surroundings.

While GIS is an incredibly powerful set of software and analysis tools, one of the most common byproducts is paper maps. Found in almost any firehouse is a jurisdictional response area map depicting the local communities served by the department. Often, however, these maps are simply road maps that have taken on new roles with hand-marked hydrants, nursing homes, and circled and highlighted locations of other sensitive receptors. By centralizing critical information, GIS can be leveraged to produce a wide variety of useful map products that may take the shape of large wall maps that detail the entire service area, or printed truck books that break down the response area into focused, detailed pages within a binder. Common maps developed for fire departments include department-wide hydrant maps, hazardous material locations, school zones, evacuation routes, and assisted living complexes. Regardless of whether it is mounted on the wall, or in a book that is kept in the trucks, having this information depicted in a clear map at their fingertips during an emergency saves time when seconds count.

The importance of properly training staff on new technology and the development of an improved comprehensive emergency management plan cannot be underestimated. By embracing the advantage GIS provides, fallout can be mitigated and those planning for and responding to emergencies can enter situations with increased confidence. H2M architects + engineers is prepared to use GIS and other programs and devices to help municipalities, and in doing so, support first responders by ensuring the information they have access to is reliable and up to date. GIS comprises just one part of a municipality’s emergency plan, but it is a critical foundation.