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EMERGENCY OPERATIONS

PLAN

Elko County, Nevada

2019

Elko County Office of Emergency Management

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APPROVAL AND IMPLEMENTATION

Elko County Emergency Operations Plan

APPROVAL AND IMPLEMENTATION

Pursuant to Elko County, Nevada: County Code; Title 1: Miscellaneous Regulations; Chapter 3: Emergency Operations; Section 11-3-5 (F) Powers and Duties of Director: “to prepare an emergency operations plan and an emergency resources management plan for the County in, support of and in consonance with Federal and State emergency plans and guidance.”

The Elko County Elko County Emergency Operations Plan, (EOP), utilized the “Whole Community approach to emergency management and planning. As such, the EOP update process included residents, emergency management practitioners, organizations and community leaders, and government officials collectively understanding and assessing the needs of their respective communities and determined the best ways to organize and strengthen their assets, capacities and interests.

The Elko County Emergency Operations Plan has been reviewed and approved by the Elko County Board of Commissioners.

Board of Commission Adoption of Changes

The Elko County Board of Commissioner’s recognized, accepted and adopted the plan on _________________ and is included below.

Resolution # _________________________

County Emergency Operations Plan

RECORD OF CHANGES

Elko County, NevadaChange #

Date of Change

Entered By Summary of Changes

001 June 2007 New Release

002January -

December 2019

A. KerrElko County Emergency Manager

Plan Update: New Format and inclusion of Resilience Framework.

v

County Emergency Operations Plan


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

APPROVAL OF IMPLEMENTATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

RECORD OF CHANGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v

TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

BASIC PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9I. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

II. PLAN SUMMARY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 A. All-Hazard Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10B. Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10C. Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11D. Whole Community Preparedness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

III. AUTHORITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12A. Authority of Local emergency Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12B. Authority of NIMS Adoption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12C. Compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. . . . 12

IV. EXPLANATION OF TERMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13A. Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13B. Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

V. SITUATION AND ASSUMPTIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20A. Situation Overview (Types of Incidents). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20B. Threats, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) . . . . 20C. Capability Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21D. Planning Assumptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

VI. ORGANIZATIONAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . 22A. Local – Incorporated City Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22B. Local – Elko County Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23C. Elko County Commission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 D. County Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25E. County Emergency Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26F. Emergency Management Functional Groups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29G. Common Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30H. State Government Roles and Responsibilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31I. Office of the Governor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31J. Emergency Support Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31K. Federal Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34L. Tribal Nations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34M. Volunteer and Private Sector Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34N. Subject Matter Experts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

December 2019 7 BASIC PLAN


VII. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35A. General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35B. Elko County State of Readiness Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36C. Operational Guidance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38D. State Federal and Other Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42E. Monitoring, Detection, Alert and Warning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43F. Declaration Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45G. Preparedness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47H. Response Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47I. Recovery Operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48J. Hazard Mitigation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

VIII. ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50A. Agreements and Contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50B. Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50C. Records. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51D. Consumer Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52E. Post-Incident and Exercise Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

IX. PLAN DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52A. Plan Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52B. Review and Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52C. References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

ATTACHMENTS:Attachment 1 – Distribution List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56Attachment 2 – Organizational Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Attachment 3 – Functional Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58Attachment 4 – Subject Matter Experts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

ANNEXES:

Hazards, threats, or incident specific annexes are under separate/individual plans.

1. Wildland Fire2. Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan3. Earthquakes4. Major River Flooding5. Active Assailant6. Evacuation, Sheltering, Mass Care, Traffic Incident Management7. Volunteer Plan8. Donation Plan9. Debris Removal Plan10. Cyber Security Plan11. Continuity of Operations Plan 12. Elko County Dams; Emergency Action Plans



BASIC PLAN

I. INTRODUCTION

An emergency operations plan (EOP) is a key component of an emergency management program that establishes the overall authority, roles, and functions performed during incidents, emergencies and disasters. The objective of the County Emergency Operations Plan is to reduce the possible consequences of an emergency by preventing loss of life and injuries; reducing damage to infrastructure, buildings, and homes; accelerating the resumption of normal daily life activities, to protect the environment and be resilient.

This document supersedes the EOP 2007/2008.

II. PLAN SUMMARY

This EOP:

Assigns responsibility to organizations and individuals. Sets forth lines of authority and organization relationships. Describes how people and property are protected. Identifies personnel, equipment, facilities, supplies and other resources. Identifies steps to address mitigation concerns during response and recovery operations. Is flexible enough for use in all emergencies. Helps personnel and providers operate as a team in an emergency.

Pursuant to Authorities listed below, the Elko County EOP is the master emergency operations document for the County of Elko in the prevention of, preparation for, mitigation of, response to, and recovery from an emergency or disaster. The EOP describes strategies, assumptions, operational objectives, and mechanisms through which County Emergency Management will mobilize resources and conduct activities to guide and support communities’ efforts through preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation.

To facilitate effective operations, the EOP adopts a hybrid-functional approach that groups the types of assistance provided by the 15 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and subject matter experts (SME). Each ESF is led by a primary local department or agency based on its authorities, resources and capabilities in that ESF’s functional area. Subject matter experts will utilized as needed because of the incident, emergency and/or disaster.

The EOP is designed to be flexible, adaptable and scalable. It articulates the roles and responsibilities among County, State, Tribal and Federal emergency officials. The EOP includes the Basic Plan and Annexes. These annexes will identify the ESFs; provide stand-alone documents, supplemental plans, standard operating procedures and guides that will provide more detailed information to assist emergency management officials and others in implementing the EOP.



The EOP is organized as follows:

Base Plan: Describes the process for preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation activities of local agencies, private volunteer organizations and non-governmental organizations.

Emergency Support Function (ESF) Annex: This section describes the 15 ESFs, which serve as the primary mechanisms for providing assistance at the local level. Not all ESF may be deployed as a result of an emergency. This allows for the scalable operation depending on the situation and the nature of the incident.

Subject Mater Experts (SME): Subject Matter Experts (SME) are identified as individuals whom possess the critical knowledge regarding an area, which may be affected or can assist due to the incident, emergency and/or disaster. i.e. National Weather Service.

Support Annexes: These annexes, separately as stand-alone documents, clearly describe the policies, process, procedures, roles and responsibilities that agencies and departments carry out before, during and after any emergency.

Hazard, Threat, or incident-Specific Annexes: These annexes, under separate cover as stand-alone documents, address the unique aspects of how the County responds to hazard, threat or incident specific emergencies and disasters.

A. All-Hazard PlanningCounty Emergency planning uses an all-hazards approach to planning. All-hazards planning is based on the premise that the consequences of disasters are the same regardless of the hazard, and most of the functions performed during emergency situations are not hazard-specific. Hence, the most efficient approach to planning is to plan in some detail for the tasks required to carry out basic emergency functions that may have to be executed whether a disaster is caused by a natural, technological, or man-made hazard. Hazard-specific plans for unique threats are developed to supplemental all-hazards plans.

B. PurposeIt is recognized the communities of Elko County take care of their own and many emergency actions are performed as a matter of course. This plan serves to provide a formal framework within which the County can execute emergency operations in extraordinary circumstances where defined guidance is necessary for effective and efficient service provision.

Elko County is required to ensure awareness of, prevention of, preparation for, mitigate of risks, respond to, and recover from an emergency or disaster in order to provide assistance that saves lives, and protects health, safety and property. These emergency or disaster situations my range from a small, localized event to a large scale event which requires a presidential declaration.

The purpose of the Elko County Operations Plan is to:

Develop and maintain an all-hazards planning approach.

Create the general framework of planning for preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery activities.



Reduce the vulnerability of people and their communities, including the loss of life or injury, or the damage and loss of property resulting from natural, technological, and man-made disasters, by developing effective preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery plans.

Describe emergency management role in supporting first responders during an emergency or disaster.

Provide public warning and communications during impending emergency and communicate internally before, during and after an event occurs.

Ensure the County’s ability to maintain and operate a 24-hour warning point with the capability of warning the public of an imminent threat or actual threat and coordinate public information activities during an emergency or disaster. This includes working with the State whom maintains the State Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Warning System (NAWAS).

Provide emergency assistance, mass care and direct evacuations.

Describe how survivors will be cared for including health and medical services.

Describe the County’s relationship with the State and Federal Government during an emergency or disaster.

Describe the types of disasters which are likely to occur in Elko County from local emergencies, to minor, major or catastrophic disasters.

Describe the mechanisms to deliver immediate assistance, including direction and control of intrastate, interstate and federal response and recover assistance.

Create and maintain a system that integrates, adopts, and applies (where applicable) the tenets of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) to ensure its interface with the State and National Response Framework (NRF) to maximize the integration of incident-related preparedness, mitigation response and recovery activities.

C. ScopeThe Elko County Emergency Operations Plan establishes a concept of operations spanning emergencies from initial monitoring through post-disaster response and recovery. It defines interagency, departmental and community response including the incorporating the critical edits in the National Preparedness Goal, including lessons learned from real world events.

D. Whole Community PreparednessIt is the County’s intent to have a system for emergency operations planning and response that fully involves the whole community. Elko County promotes FEMA’s Whole Community



initiative that encourages jurisdictions and response agencies at all levels to involve a wide array of public, private-sector and non-governmental sector agencies that represent the full spectrum of personal needs in the emergency operations plan. The whole community approach is being incorporated into all Presidential Policy Directive (PPD)-8 deliverables, including the National Preparedness Goal, National Preparedness System description and the National Planning Framework.

It is Elko County’s intent that expanding the use of whole community concepts in Elko County’s Emergency Management Operations will make emergency operations planning, response and recovery outcomes more resilient, more efficient, more effective, and more responsive to the needs of residence, communities and business.

III. AUTHORITIES

A. Authority of Local Emergency Management

Authority for the establishment and activities of state and local emergency management organizations is derived from Chapter 414 of the Nevada Revised Statutes, as amended. Authority for Elko County Emergency Operations is established by County Code; Title 1: Miscellaneous Regulations; Chapter 3: Emergency Operations.

B. Authority of NIMS Adoption

Pursuant to Chapter 239C of the Nevada Revised Statues, Elko County adopted the National Incident Management System (NIMS) on April 2007 and continues to implement this system in its emergency response and recovery to incidents, emergencies, disasters and planned events.

C. Compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990; September 2010-March 15, 2012, is incorporated into emergency preparedness plans. This law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. Elko County’s approach to effectively address the needs of persons with disabilities, and the needs of individuals with access and functional needs in emergency preparedness plans is to establish a process to pre-identify resources which may be used to fulfill requests from these individuals for reasonable accommodations they may need in emergency situations.

Functional Needs Support Services (FNSS) are defined as services that enable children and adults with or without disabilities who have access and functional needs to maintain their health, safety, and independence in a general population shelter. This may include Personal Assistance Services (PAS), durable medical equipment (DME), consumable medical supplies (CMS), and reasonable modification to common practices, policies and procedures. Individuals requiring FNSS may have sensory, physical, mental health, cognitive and/or intellectual disabilities affecting their capability to function independently without assistance. Additionally, the elderly, women in the late stages of pregnancy, and



individuals requiring communication assistance and bariatric support may also benefit from FNSS.

Elko County will make every effort to comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws related to emergency and disaster-related programs, services and activities for individuals with disabilities and with access and functional needs.

IV. EXPLANATION OF TERMS

A. Acronyms

AAR After Action ReportADA Americans with Disabilities ActAHJ Authority Having JurisdictionARC American Red CrossARES Amateur Radio Emergency ServiceCAP Civil Air Patrol (Nevada)CERT Community Emergency Response TeamCFR Code of Federal RegulationsCMS Consumable Medical SuppliesCST Nevada National Guard – Civil Support TeamDEM Division of Emergency ManagementDHS Department of Homeland SecurityDME Durable Medical EquipmentDRC Disaster Recovery CentersEAS Emergency Alert SystemECEMT Elko County Emergency Management TeamEMS Emergency Medical ServicesEOC Emergency Operations CenterEOP Emergency Operations PlanESF Emergency Support FunctionFEMA Federal Emergency Management AgencyFBI Federal Bureau of InvestigationFNSS Functional Needs Support ServicesFISH Friends in Service HelpingHAZMAT Hazardous MaterialHSPD-5 Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5 IAP Incident Action Plans IC Incident CommanderICC Incident Command CenterICP Incident Command PostICS Incident Command SystemIMAS Intrastate Mutual Aid SystemJFO Joint Field OfficeJIC Joint Information CenterMACS Multiagency Coordination SystemMOU Memorandum of UnderstandingNAWAS National Warning System



NDEM Nevada Division of Emergency ManagementNEAT North Eastern Area TransitNEMAC Nevada Emergency Management Assistance CompactNFR National Response FrameworkNGO Non-Governmental OrganizationsNIMS National Incident Management SystemNNRH Northeastern Nevada Regional HospitalNRP National Response PlanNTAC Nevada Threat Analysis CenterPAS Personal Assistance ServicesPSAP Public Safety Answering PointsPIO Public Information Office or OfficerRACES Radio Amateur Civil Emergency ServicesSBA Small Business Administration U.S.SCEMP State Comprehensive Emergency Management PlanSEOC State Emergency Operations CenterSIP Shelter-in-PlaceSME Subject Matter ExpertSNF Skilled Nursing FacilitySOP Standard Operating ProceduresSPR State Preparedness ReportTICP Tactical Interoperable Communications PlansTTY Text TelephoneUC Unified CommandVOAD Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters



B. Definitions

1. Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ ) : The phrase “authority having jurisdiction,” or its acronym AHJ, is used in a broad manner, since jurisdictions and approval agencies vary, as do their responsibilities. Where public safety is primary, the authority having jurisdiction may be a federal, state, local or other regional department or individual.

2. Emergency Operations Center : Is a central location where agency representatives can coordinate and make decisions to control and coordinate necessary resources when managing an emergency response.

3. Emergency Situations : As used in this plan, this term is intended to describe a range of occurrences, from a minor incident to a catastrophic disaster. It includes:

a. Incident : An incident is a situation that is limited in scope and potential effects. Characteristics of an incident include:

i. Involves a limited area and/or limited population.ii. Evacuation and Sheltering-in-Place is limited to the immediate incident

area.iii. Warning and public instructions are provided in the immediate area, not

community-wide.iv. One or two local response agencies or departments acting under an

incident commander normally handle incidents. Requests for resource support are normally handled through agency and/or departmental channels.

v. May require limited external assistance from other local response agencies or contractors.

vi. For the purposes of the NRP, incidents include the full range of occurrences that require an emergency response to protect life or property.

b. Emergency : An emergency is a situation that is larger in scope and more severe in terms of actual or potential effects than an incident. Characteristic include:

i. Involves a large area, significant population, or important facilities.ii. May require implementation of large-scale evacuation or sheltering-in-

place and implementation of temporary shelter and mass care operations.iii. May require community-wide warning and public instructions.iv. Requires a sizable multi-agency response operating and an incident

commander.v. May require some external assistance from other local response agencies,

contractors, and limited assistance from state or federal agencies.vi. The EOC will be activated to provide general guidance and direction,

coordinate external support and provide resource support for the incident.

(As defined by the Stafford Act) An emergency is “any occasion or instance for which, in the determination of the President, Federal assistance is needed to



supplement State and local efforts and capabilities to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of catastrophe in any part of the United States.”

NRS 414.0345: “Emergency” means an occurrence or threatened occurrence for which, in the determination of the Governor, the assistance of the state agencies is needed to supplement the efforts and capabilities of political subdivisions to save lives, protect property and protect the health and safety of persons in this state, or to avert the threat of damage to property or injury to or the death of persons in this state.

Emergency Large-scale The existence of conditions of disaster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons or property within the territorial limits of Elko County, which conditions are, or are likely to be, beyond the control of the services, personnel, equipment, and facilities of the county and which requires the combined efforts of other political entities.

Emergency Local (Small-scale) An event which requires response of emergency forces over and above normal working functions, but which is manageable within local capability.

c. Disaster : A disaster involves the occurrence or threat of significant casualties and/or widespread property damage that is beyond the capability of the local government to handle with its own resources. Characteristics may:

i. Involve a large area, a sizable population, and/or important facilities.ii. Require implementation of large-scale evacuation or in-place sheltering

and implementation of temporary shelter and mass care operations.iii. Require community-wide warning and public instructions.iv. Require a response by all local response agencies operating under one or

more incident commanders.v. Require significant external assistance from other local response

agencies, contractors, and extensive state or federal assistance.vi. The EOC will be activate to provide general guidance and direction,

provide emergency information to the public, coordinate state and federal support, and coordinate resource support for emergency operations.

(As defined by the Stafford Act) A Major disaster is any catastrophe, regardless of the cause, which in the determination of the President causes damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant major disaster federal assistance.

NRS 414.0345 “Disaster” means an occurrence or threatened occurrence for which, in the determination of the Governor, the assistance of the Federal Government is needed to supplement the efforts and capabilities of state agencies to save lives, protect property and protect the health and safety of persons in this state, or to avert the threat of damage to property or injury to or the death of persons in this state.

Major Disaster Any natural catastrophe or, regardless of cause, any fire, flood, or explosion, which in the determination of the President causes damage of



sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant major disaster assistance to supplement the efforts of state and local governments and disaster relief organizations in alleviating damage, loss, and hardship.

d. Catastrophic Incident : Any natural or manmade incident, including terrorism that produces extraordinary levels of mass casualties, property damage, and disruption severely affecting the population, infrastructure, environment, economy, national morale, and/or government functions. A catastrophic incident may result in sustained national impacts over a prolonged period of time, and interrupt public and private operations, emergency services, and infrastructure to such a significant extent that national security is threatened. Such an event would immediately exceed resources normally available in State, Local, Tribal, and private sectors and therefore urgently require Federal/National assistance. All catastrophic incidents are Incidents of National Significance.

4. Evacuation : The act of evacuating. To leave a dangerous place or remove someone from a dangerous place. To withdraw from a site or building in an organized way especially for protection organized, phased, and supervised withdrawal, dispersal, or removal of civilians from dangerous or potentially dangerous areas, and their reception and care in safe areas.

5. Entity : A person, organization, or group with mutually accepted accountability who is responsible for having jurisdictional authority for the incident.

6. Functional Needs Support Services : (FNSS) are defined as services that enable children and adults with or without disabilities who have access and functional needs to maintain their health, safety, and independence in a general population shelter. This may include Personal Assistance Services (PAS), durable medical equipment (DME), consumable medical supplies (CMS), and reasonable modification to common practices, policies and procedures. Individuals requiring FNSS may have sensory, physical, mental health, cognitive and/or intellectual disabilities affecting their capability to function independently without assistance. Additionally, the elderly, women in the late stages of pregnancy, and individuals requiring communication assistance and bariatric support may also benefit from FNSS.

7. Functional Needs Populations : Also referred to as Special Needs Populations, this describes members of the community who have needs before, during and after an emergency incident in functional areas, including, but not limited to: maintaining independence, communication, transportation, supervision an medical care.

8. Hazard Analysis Summary (THIRA Methodology) : A comprehensive research and review of relevant documentation and assessments, including the most recent Elko County Hazard Mitigation Plan to develop a baseline of threats, hazards identification risk assessment. The top five threats and hazards are identified for further analysis of its consequence and impacts. The exception to this are based on the heightened awareness and current threat of active shooter, active assailant and terrorism events. The Elko County Hazard Mitigation Plan is a document published separately from this plan.



9. Hazardous Material (Hazmat) : A substance in a quantity or form posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and/or property when manufactured, stored or transported. The substance, by its nature, containment, and reactivity, has the capability for inflicting harm during an accidental occurrence. Is toxic, corrosive, flammable, reactive, an irritant, or a strong sensitizer, and poses a threat to health and the environment when improperly managed. This includes toxic substances, certain infectious agents, radiological materials, and other related materials such as oil, used oil, petroleum products, and industrial solid waste substances.

10. Incident of National Significance : An actual or potential high-impact event that requires a coordinated and effective response by an appropriate combination of federal, state, local, tribal, nongovernmental, and/or private sector entities in order to save lives, minimize damage, and provide the basis for long-term communication recovery and mitigation activities.

11. Inter-Local Agreements : Arrangements between governments or organizations, either public or private, for reciprocal aid and assistance during emergency situations where the resources of a single jurisdiction or organization are insufficient or inappropriate for the tasks that must that must be performed to control the situation, commonly referred to as mutual aid agreements or memorandum of understanding.

12. MACS : Multiagency Coordination System provides support, coordination, and assistance with policy-level decision to the ICS structure managing an incident, and should be both flexible and scalable to be efficient and effective. MACS defines business practices, standard operating procedures, process, and protocols by which participating agencies will coordinate their interactions.

13. Nevada Intrastate Mutual Aid System (IMAS) : Is in accordance with the Presidential Policy Directive 8 to achieve all-hazards national preparedness through Chapter 414 of the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) authorizing the State and its political subdivision to provide emergency aid and assistance in the event of an emergency or disaster.

14. Persons with Disabilities : Individuals with disabilities are defined as persons who have physical or mental impairment that limit major life activities, have an ongoing or chronic condition, or even if they don’t have such a condition, are regarded by the community as being disabled. People with functional needs include a wide variety of individuals who are identified by a variety of names – people with disabilities such as individuals who use wheel chairs, people who are blind or visually impaired, people who are deaf or severely hard of hearing, people with severe emotional impairments, people with severe intellectual impairments, people with medically related needs such as diabetics, individuals with seizure disorders, and many others that require unique assistance.

15. Political Subdivision : A city or county within the State of Nevada.

16. Public Information : Information that is disseminated to the public via the various public and social media means, before, during and/or after an emergency or disaster.



17. Shelter-In-Place . Shelter-in-place is the action of seeking immediate shelter indoors, following a release of hazardous materials to the outside air or in anticipation of extreme weather conditions, and awaiting further instructions. Taking appropriate shelter is critical in times of disaster. Sheltering is appropriate when conditions require that you seek protection in your home, place of employment or other location when disaster strikes or the situation requires sheltering for your safety. The hazardous materials may be chemical, biological, byproducts of a fire (smoke, ash, etc.), or other harmful contaminant. During extreme circumstances, sheltering-in-place could also include additional precautions, such as turning off fans, air conditioning, and forced air heating systems, to reduce any potential for air contamination in the event of a chemical or biological release. Shelter-in-place may be required due to acts of an active assailant at a place of work or school.

18. Special Facilities . Certain facilities which house or serve populations that cannot care for themselves during emergencies and/or require unique support services. Such facilities include:

a. Schools and day care centers, where students require supervision to ensure their safety.

b. Hospitals and nursing homes, where patients need specialized health care personnel and equipment to maintain their health.

c. Correctional facilities, where offenders require security to keep them in custody.

19. Stafford Act : The Robert T. Stafford disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act authorizes federal agencies to undertake special measures designed to assist the efforts of states in expediting the rendering of aid, assistance, emergency services, and reconstruction and rehabilitation of areas devastated by disaster.

20. Unified Command : An organization established (1) to oversee the management of multiple incidents that are each being managed by an ICS organization and incidents are multijurisdictional or (2) to oversee the management of large or multiple incidents to which several Incident Management Teams have been assigned. Sets overall strategy and priorities, allocates critical resources according to priorities, ensures that incidents are properly managed, and ensures that objectives are met and strategies followed.

21. Visitor/Non-Resident Population : Individuals visiting or staying in a place outside their usual place of residence. Visitor population includes business and leisure travelers present in the jurisdiction, whether for single day or overnight stays.

V. SITUATION AND ASSUMPTIONS

A. Situation Overview (Types of Incidents)



Elko County is located in the northeast corner of the State of Nevada. It is the second largest of State’s 17 counties and the fourth largest county (by area) in the continental US totaling 17,181 square miles. Elko County’s north border is contiguous with three counties of the state of Idaho, Owyhee County, Twin Falls County, and Cassia County. The west border is contiguous with the Nevada Counties of Humboldt County, Lander County and Eureka County. On the Southern border of Elko County is White Pine County, Nevada. The eastern border is contiguous with two counties in the State of Utah, Toole County and Box Elder County.

This region hosts four tribal communities; Wells Band Colony of the Western Shoshone Nation, Elko Band of Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada, South Fork Band of Te-Moak Tribe of Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada and Duck Valley Indian Reservation. This Emergency Operations Plan pertains to Elko County and does not include operational direction for tribal lands. However, our “Whole Community” approach does encourage tribal jurisdictions and response agencies at all levels to be involved with the full spectrum of personal needs in the emergency operations plan.

Elko County’s unique mountainous geography, valley floors, rolling hills and physical location in the western region of the United States, creates vulnerabilities to many natural hazards, including earthquakes, drought, flooding, wildland fires, and severe weather emergencies, including heavy snow/and/or extreme cold.

One of the major industries in the county is mining. There are several large gold mines in the region, though not all mines are located in Elko County, Elko provides support mechanisms and transportation routes for several hazardous materials. Interstate – 80 runs through the entire county from border to border. Releases and spills of hazardous materials within Elko County are of great concern.

B. Threats, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA)

Overall planning begins with the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) process. THIRA provides a comprehensive, consistent approach for identifying and assessing risks and associated impacts.

Based on a combination of experience, forecasting, subject-matter expertise, and other available resources, Elko County developed a list of threats and hazards that could impact the County. Each threat and/or hazard included in the Elko County THIRA challenged at least one core capability. Workshops were conducted with various community stake holders and subject matter experts.

Top Five Threats and Hazards Identified for Elko County are:

1. Wildland Fire2. Hazardous Material Spill3. Earthquake4. Flooding5. Active Assailant The State Preparedness Report (SPR) was used to estimate the current capabilities, identify preparedness gaps, and indicate intended approaches for addressing gaps through mitigation processes.



C. Capability Assessment

Elko County’s capability to either prevent the occurrence, prepare for, respond to, or recover from the effects of an emergency is measured against the Federal Core Capability List that are grouped along the mission areas of prevention, protection, mitigation, response and recovery.

D. Planning Assumptions

The following planning assumptions are made and apply to this plan:

1. General Planning Assumptions:

a. Elko County will continue to be exposed and subject to the impact of the hazards described above as well as lesser hazards and others that may develop in the future.

b. It is possible for a major disaster to occur at any time and any place. In many cases, dissemination of warning to the public and implementation of increased readiness measures may be possible. However, some emergencies occur with little or no warning.

c. Emergencies and disaster will result in one or more of the following: injury and/or loss of life; damage or destruction to public and private property; disruption of utilities (electric, telephone and water) and daily life activities; displacement of persons and families; disruption of local services (sanitation, EMS, fire and police); shortages of temporary or permanent housing; damage or destruction to public and private records; impacts on the environment; and social and economic disruption.

d. Elko County may request mutual aid assistance from other counties through the Nevada Emergency Management Assistance Compact (NEMAC) and utilizing the Nevada Intrastate Mutual Aid System. It takes time for external assistance to arrive and provide help, thus, it is essential for the local government to be prepared to carry out the initial emergency response on an independent basis.

e. All emergencies and disasters are local, but may require state assistance.

f. The most effective resources during emergencies and disasters are survivors. They are first on the scene and provide instant assistance to other survivors.

g. Achieving and maintaining effective community preparedness reduces the immediate demands on response organizations. This level of preparedness requires constant public awareness and education programs to ensure people take appropriate advance actions to reduce their vulnerability during at least the initial 72 hours following an emergency or disaster.



h. Proper mitigation actions, such as floodplain management, defensible space, can prevent or reduce disaster-related losses. Detailed emergency planning, training of emergency responders and other personnel, conducting periodic emergency drills and exercises can improve local readiness to deal with emergency situations.

2. Demographic Planning Assumptions

a. Elko County’s population resides in diverse communities across mountainous and high-desert environments in rural and frontier areas. Rural and frontier Nevada consists largely of open desert, Tribal Nations, cattle ranches, farms, pine forests, mines and four incorporated cities, small towns and the largest HOA in Nevada. Therefore, response, recovery and mitigation activities must be tailored to the type of community impacted by the emergency or disaster.

b. Elko County is comprised of 17,181 square miles or 10,995,840 acres; of this total area approximately 72% or 7,907,333 acres are public lands, managed by the federal government. This presents challenges for Elko County when developing plans, initiating responses to, and recovery from incidents.

VI ORGANIZATIONAL ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe organizational responsibilities to implement procedures under this plan are shared among the various departments and agencies of Elko County. The remaining components of the whole community, comprised of the private and business sector, and volunteer agencies and organizations contribute significantly to Elko County’s preparedness, response and recovery efforts and are included in this section. These departments and agencies are responsible for implementing on-scene response operations with Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).

Elko County’s emergency management structure is designed to be flexible to accommodate any incident response and recovery requirements regardless of size, cause or complexity.

Response coordination of an emergency or disaster will be carried out at the lowest level of government affected. When Elko County activates its own emergency operations center (EOC) or a proclamation mandates the need for state assistance, the Elko County Emergency Manager will coordinate assistance with the State of Nevada, Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

A. LOCAL – INCORPORATED CITY GOVERNMENT

The four incorporated cities, located in Elko County, should be prepared to:

1. Maintain an emergency management program at the city level, which involves all city government agencies, private, non-governmental, and volunteer organizations that have responsibilities identified in their city comprehensive emergency management plan.



2. Develop a city emergency management plan consistent with the existing county emergency management plan.

3. Declare a city “state of emergency” and requesting assistance from the county.

4. Coo9rdinate emergency response efforts within their political jurisdiction.

5. Activate mutual aid agreements among municipalities within the city and county in accordance with the Nevada Emergency Management Assistance Compact (NEMAC), Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), and other mutual aid agreements.

B. LOCAL – ELKO COUNTY GOVERNMENT

1. Elko County will maintain an emergency management program which involves all local government agencies, private, non-governmental, and volunteer organizations which have responsibilities identified in the Emergency Management County Codes and Emergency Management Plans. The program shall be designed to avoid, reduce and mitigate the effects of hazards through the enforcement of policies, standards and regulations.

2. Implement a broad-based public awareness, education and information program designed to reach all residents and visitors of the County, including those needing special media formats, non-English speaking persons, and persons with sensory impairment or loss.

3. Ensure the County’s ability to maintain and operate a 24-hour warning point with the capability of warning the public of an imminent threat or actual threat and coordinate public information activities during an emergency or disaster. This includes maintaining the State Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Warning System (NAWAS).

4. Develop a County Emergency Management Plan consistent with the SEMP.

5. Coordinating the emergency management needs of all municipalities within the county and working to establish mutual aid agreements to render emergency assistance to one another.

6. Declare a County State of Emergency and request assistance from the State.

7. Coordinate emergency response efforts within their political jurisdictions, including coordinating shelter activation, and requesting outside assistance when necessary. The County Emergency Manager will be responsible for recommending to the Board of County Commissioners a local state of emergency be declared.



8. Activate mutual aid agreements with neighboring counties and among municipalities with the County in accordance with the NEMAC, EMAC and other mutual aid agreements.

9. Provide evacuation shelter facilities during a state of local emergency or disaster. Through the school districts, the County shall provide facilities and necessary personnel to staff such facilities and may utilize trained volunteers. The school district provides transportation assistance in an emergency evacuation shall coordinate the use of its vehicles with the County Emergency Management Agency - Elko County Emergency Manager.

10. Maintain costs and expenditure reports associated with emergencies and disasters, including resources mobilized as a result of mutual aid agreements.

C. The County Commissioners will:

1. Carry out appropriate provisions of the Nevada Revised Statutes, in addition to local ordinances and/or codes.

2. Declare and terminate an emergency or disaster at the County Level.

3. Encourage cooperation between local emergency services agencies, facilities and other applicable organizations.

4. Provide policy direction and control when requested by the Emergency Manager and/or County Manager in dealing with emergency or disaster that occurs in an area where the County has jurisdiction and responsibility.

5. Encourage cooperation of agencies, business, and citizens to mitigate an emergency or disaster.

6. Upon the recommendation by the Elko County Emergency Manager, issue and distribute as appropriate, a local proclamation declaring a State of Emergency or termination of a State of Emergency.

7. Assure continuity of County government during an emergency or disaster.

8. Provide support to the Elko County Emergency Manager, the Emergency Operations Center, during a major emergency or disaster.

9. Additional duties are also found in the various annexes and stand-alone emergency documents.

D. The County Manager will:



1. Ensure County departments and agencies, with the assistance of the County Emergency Manager, develop and continually update emergency plans and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to respond to incidents, emergencies or disasters.

2. Report to the Emergency Operations Center upon activation and assist the Elko County Emergency Manager in the direction and control of the major emergency or disaster.

3. Ensure representatives for Emergency Operations Center staff as designated (e.g. Comptroller, Community Development, Public Works, etc.) report to the EOC upon activation to provide direction and control should they be requested by the Emergency Manager.

4. Function as the official County Spokesperson and/or Public Information Officer or ensure that a qualified trained information officer is in place.

5. Provide administrative support for the local, state, and federal emergency response agencies where the County has jurisdiction and responsibility.

6. Ensure means are available within the jurisdiction to gather necessary information, e.g. fuel storage facilities, major distributors and end use status, during the emergencies and disasters.

7. Provide general assistance to the state in minimizing the adverse social and economic aspects of energy supply disruptions by encouraging recommend conservation programs both in the public and private sector.

8. Implement direction, control, coordination, and policy making functions as necessary to provide for optimum protection of public health and safety within the County’s jurisdiction.

9. Implement emergency policies / ordinances / resolutions as appropriate on behalf of the County.

10. Assure the protection of public documents and public facilities during the emergency or disaster.

11. Additional duties are also found in the various Annexes and Procedures.

E. The County Emergency Manager will:



The majority of emergencies and disasters are local and are handled locally by first responders and emergency managers. The local emergency manager has the responsibility for coordinating emergency management programs and activities including:

1. Managing resources before, during and after a major emergency or disaster.

a. Taking inventory of personnel and material resources to include the private-sector sources that would be available in an emergency and maintain the resource inventory list.

b. Identifying resource deficiencies and working with appropriate officials on measures to resolve them.

2. Conducting activities related to the key components of emergency management.

a. Coordinating the planning process and working cooperatively with organizations and government agencies.

b. Identifying and analyzing the potential impacts of hazards that threaten the jurisdiction.

c. Conducting threat/hazard and risk assessments.d. Coordinating a review of all local emergency – and disaster-related authorities

and recommending amendments, when necessary.e. Develop and maintain a public information and education program.

i. Establish and maintain a working relationship with the media.

3. Coordinating with all partners in the emergency management process, to ensure they:

a. Are aware of potential threats to the community, including establishing a system to alert officials and the public in an emergency or disaster.

b. Participate in mitigation and prevention activities.c. Plan for emergencies and disasters using an all-hazards approach, including

establishing and maintaining networks of expert advisors and damage assessors for all hazards.

d. Operate effectively in emergency situationse. Conduct effective recovery operations after a disasterf. Advise and inform partners about emergency management activities.g. Partner’s in the emergency management system should include:

i. Fire Servicesii. Police/Law Enforcement Servicesiii. Emergency Medical Programsiv. Public Worksv. Volunteers and Voluntary Organizationsvi. Private and Nonprofit Sector Organizationsvii. Other groups involved in emergency activitiesviii. Citizens

4. Serve as staff advisor to the County Manager on emergency management matters.



5. Keep the County Manager and County Commission appraised of the preparedness status and emergency management needs.

6. Coordinate local planning, preparedness activities, and the maintenance of these plans.

a. Coordinate the development of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).b. Development of additional plans:

i. Evacuation, Shelter-In-Place, Mass Casualty and Traffic Management Plan.

ii. Debris Removable Planiii. Cyber Security Planiv. Continuity of Operations Planv. Hazardous Mitigation Planvi. Volunteer Planvii. Donation Planviii. Historic Preservation Planix. Damage Assessment Teams x. Emotional Recovery Componentsxi. Communications, Back-up and Redundancies.xii. Emergency Operation Center Proceduresxiii. Tribal Annexesxiv. Identify functional needs groups and include them in the plans.

c. Coordinate with private industry for use of privately owned vehicles, communication, or other resources deeded for evacuation management.

d. Select staging areas or routes for pickup of persons without transportation.e. Assure as required, the transportation of emergency workers into and out of

hazard areas.f. Coordinate overall hazardous material incidents or accidents with local

emergency responding agencies, state emergency responding agencies, federal emergency responding agencies, private emergency responding agencies and any other agencies responding to the incident or accident.

7. Ensure that exercises and tests of the emergency systems and plans are conducted on a periodic basis.

8. Arrange appropriate training for local emergency management personnel and emergency responders.

9. Activate the EOC when required.

10. Manage the EOC, develop procedures for its operation, and conduct training for those who staff it.



a. Select and equip an alternate and/or mobile EOC. Select and equip a mobile command and communications unit.

b. Ensure that a system is developed and implemented to manage information (including internal messages) pertaining to the emergency and disseminate it to other levels of government, the public and private sector.

c. Acquire maps, status boards and other display services for the EOC, which identify high hazard areas and pre-selected control/monitoring points.

d. Ensure that an events log (casualty and health concerns, property damage, fire status, size of risk area, scope of hazard, number of evacuees, radiation dose, etc.) is compiled and displayed in the EOC throughout the duration of an emergency.

e. Provide for acquisition/stocking of food, water supplies and other equipment necessary for the effective operation of the EOC/staff.

f. Provide for acquisition/stocking of EOC administrative supplies and equipment.

g. Establish and equip the EOC to include primary and backup radio communications (fixed and mobile).

h. Identify personnel/agencies having resources to support EOC responsibilities.i. Develop a schedule for testing, maintaining, and repairing EOC and other

emergency related equipment.j. Develop and maintain the EOC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

including an activation checklist and notification/recall roster.k. Alert staff and activate EOC (for 24-hour coverage if necessary) when notified

of potential/emergency situations.l. Ensure that EOC staff acknowledge and authenticate reports.m. Ensure staff and officials that briefings are conducted periodically during the

emergency or disaster.n. Establish and maintain coordination with other jurisdictional EOCs as

appropriate.

11. Perform day-to-day liaison contact with the Nevada Division of Emergency Management staff and other local emergency management personnel.

12. Ensure EOC deactivation includes equipment is restored to a “ready” condition and EOC supplies are replenished.

13. Develop guidelines to warn areas not covered by existing warning systems.

14. When a hazardous material incident or accident occurs on any roadway or fixed facility located in the County, the Emergency Manager should coordinate the cleanup efforts with the state or federal environmental protection association requirements.

a. The Emergency Manager should always evaluate the hazardous material incident or accident to ensure all safety precautions are being taken to protect all the emergency responders on scene and the citizens in the county.



b. Coordinate a training program on hazardous material incidents with the private, local and state emergency services departments who will be responding to any hazardous material incident or accident in the county.

15. Develop mutual aid agreements with neighboring jurisdictions.

16. Coordinate overall damage assessment operations with various departments.

17. Recruit Damage Assessment Team members.

a. Provide damage assessment training for team members on an annual basis.b. Maintain sufficient quantities of needed forms and supplies for damage

assessment teams and other departments / agencies assisting with assessment and recovery teams.

c. Assist with identification and notification of applicant

18. Ensure agencies / organizations begin maintaining expenses records at onset of emergencies or disaster.

19. Serve as the President/Chairman of the Local Emergency Planning Committee. a. Maintaining liaison relations with facility emergency coordinators to ensure

availability or current information concerning hazards and response to an incident.

F. Emergency Management Functional Groups

An integrated approach to emergency management is based on solid general management principles and common theme of protecting life and property.

It provides direction so that participants can begin working together with all of the principals in the network. The structure outlined below will be implemented in the Elko County Emergency Operation Center (EOC). This structure should not be confused with the Incident Command Structure that emergency responders use for tactical field operations.

The functional groups are meant to support field operations and not to be involved in tactical decision making. On this team are individuals who have obvious responsibilities in disaster response, as well as others whose roles may appear to be minor but which are, in fact, very important. It is helpful to imagine the working relationships of the team as divided into three broadly defined groups at each level.

Policy Group: This is an informal and flexible grouping of experienced public officials representing County and possible municipal governments. They meet to develop emergency policies and then, as required by the disaster situation, discuss the economic, political, legal and social implications of both the threat and the response to determine the best general approach to the situation.



Members of a policy group can include County Manager, County Commissioners, and District Attorney, etc. The emergency manager serves as the liaison between the policy group and the coordination group.

Coordination Group: This group typically consists of the assistants, deputies, and staff of agencies and departments represented in the policy group. The coordination group performs a staff function by coordinating the types and number of personnel and material resources deployed, providing logistical support to field units, contracting for relief of forces, and carefully monitoring both the immediate emergency situation and other threats. The emergency manager is responsible for coordinating the efforts of various agency and department personnel assigned to the group. Typically, the coordination group does not command field-level personnel. The group will work through the Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).

Field Response Group: This group includes the fire, law enforcement, medical, military, and public works units that normally would be on the scene of the incident.

The Elko County Emergency Management Team (ECEMT) is composed of County-Department/agency-appointed ESF representatives and staff from County, volunteers and non-governmental organizations that operate under the direction of the Elko County Emergency Manager. The ECEMT is grouped into 15 Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) that carry out coordination and completion of response and recovery activities in the EOC during an emergency or disaster. These ESFs are grouped by function rather than agency, with each ESF headed by a primary department or agency as stated earlier. Subject Matter Experts may be substituted into ESF functions or a hybrid EOC.

G. Common Responsibilities

All emergency services and support services will:

1. Provide personnel, equipment, and supplies to support emergency operations upon request.

2. Develop amd maintain SOPs for emergency tasks.

3. Provide trained personnel to staff the incident command post and EOC and conduct emergency operations.

4. Provide current information on emergency resources for inclusion in the Resource List.

5. Report information regarding emergency situations to the EOC or Emergency Manager when the situation warrants additional resources needed or EOC is activated.



H. State Government Roles and Responsibilities

If local resources are in adequate to deal with an emergency, the Emergency manager, at the direction of the Elko County Commissioners or the Elko County Manager, will request assistance from the Nevada Division of Emergency Management. State assistance furnished to local governments is intended to supplement local resources and not substitute for such resources, including mutual aid resources, contracts.

1. Requests for state assistance should be made to the Nevada Division of Emergency Management through the NDEM Duty Officer, located at the NDEM State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at 2478 Fairview Drive, Carson City, NV.

a. 24/7 Emergency Duty Officer # (Primary) 775.687.0498b. 24/7 NHP Dispatch # (Secondary) 775.687.0400

Upon a request from a local jurisdiction, the state response consists of providing support to local emergency-disaster operation efforts. However, response by state agencies may occur when first response capabilities are part of the agency’s regular mission and/ or when they are identified as the primary or sole response resource. Responding state resources will assume an appropriate role within local government’s Incident command System (ICS).

The Nevada Division of Emergency Management provides overall coordination and support with federal, state, tribal and local governmental agencies to assure the necessary deployment of resources and accuracy of information through a comprehensive emergency management program.

I. Office of the Governor

The Office of the Governor exercises overall direction and control of state emergency response activities (Chapters 414, 415, 415A and 416 of the Nevada Revised Statues.)

J. Emergency Support Functions

This section provides an overview of the Hybrid Functional-Emergency Support Function (ESF) structure for coordinating the County’s response and support to an incident, emergency or disaster. They are the mechanisms for grouping functions most frequently used to provide support to local first responders.

The Incident Command System provides for the flexibility to assign Emergency Support Function (ESF) and other stakeholder resources, including SMEs, according to their capabilities, tasks, and requirements to augment and support the other sections of the EOC in order to respond to incidents in a more collaborative and cross-cutting manner.



Each agency or department assigned an ESF role will designate an ESF coordinator as the individual with management oversight for that particular ESF. The coordinator has ongoing responsibilities throughout the preparedness, response, and recover phases of incident management. There may be additional agencies and/or departments that will provide support for the ESF and are identified in the Annexes.

The following agencies and departments are assigned as the lead agency or department for an ESF. As such each assigned agency is responsible for continued review and maintenance of assigned EOP ESF Annexes and supporting documents. All suggested revisions will be submitted to Elko County Emergency Management Office for approval.

Section/Annex Responsible Agency/Department

Base Plan Elko County Emergency Management

Emergency Support Function (ESF)

ESF 1: Transportation NDOT/Elko County School District/NEAT

ESF 2: Telecommunications & IT Elko Central Dispatch/ Elko County IT

ESF 3: Public Works & Engineering Elko County Public Works/Planning

ESF 4: Firefighting Elko County Fire Protection District

ESF 5: Emergency Management Elko County Emergency Management

ESF 6: Mass Care Elko County Emergency Management

ESF 7: Purchasing Elko County Administration

ESF 8: Public Health and Medical Services Elko County Ambulance/NNRH

ESF 8-1: Mental Health NV Dept. of Health and Human Svcs

ESF 9: Search and Rescue Elko County Sheriff’s Office/SAR

ESF 10: Hazardous Materials Elko County Fire Protection District

ESF 11: Agriculture and Natural Resources EC Natural Resource Management Dept.

ESF 12: Energy NV Energy/Southwest Gas

ESF 13: Public Safety and Security Elko County Sheriff’s Office

ESF 14: Recovery Elko County Emergency Management

ESF 15: Emergency Public Information Elko County Emergency Management

Basic roles and responsibilities of each ESF include, but are not limited to the following:

ESF-1 Transportation: Coordinates the County level response, including state level response on state roads, to transportation infrastructure issues, mass transit, and the movement of commodities for disaster response. Coordinates County and civil transportation assistance for Elko County, voluntary organizations and perform any emergency or disaster assistance missions. Assess damage to the transportation infrastructure, analyzes the effects on the County



roads and monitors the accessibility of transportation capacity and implements traffic controls are required.

ESF-2 Telecommunications and Information Technology: Ensures the provision of County communications (data, telephone and radio) supports local response efforts.

ESF-3 Public Works and Engineering: Provides technical advice and evaluation; engineering services, contracting for construction management and inspection; contracting for the emergency repair of water and wastewater treatment facilities, potable water, ice and emergency power; damage mitigation and recovery activities following a major disaster or emergency.

ESF-4 Firefighting: Manages and coordinates firefighting activities, including the detection and suppression of fires on County lands, and provides personnel, equipment and supplies in support of firefighting operations.

ESF-5 Emergency Management: Collects, analyzes, processes and disseminates information about a potential or actual disaster or emergency. Coordinates local and state resources in providing mission support to emergency response efforts.

ESF-6 Mass Care, Housing, and Human Services: Assists local response efforts to meet the mass care needs of victims of disaster to include shelter, feeding, first aid and disaster assistance information.

ESF-7 Purchasing and Resource Support: Supports the County and EOC during the response phase of an emergency or disaster which includes obtaining emergency relief supplies, office space, equipment, supplies, telecommunications, contract services, transportation services, security services, and personnel required to support response activities.

ESF-8 Public Health and Medical Services: Manages local resources for further response to public health and medical care needs during or following a major emergency or disaster.

ESF-8-1 Mental Health and Developmental Services: Coordinates crisis counseling assistance to victims and first responders. This function usually extends well into the recovery phase following response.

ESF-9 Search and Rescue (SAR) and Specialized Response: Rapidly deploys components of the Elko County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Volunteers, which could include the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and notification for assistance from the Division of Emergency Management State Search and Rescue Support Function to provide specialized, technical assistance in the event of an emergency or disaster.

ESF-10 Hazardous Materials Response: Provides support in response to an actual or potential discharge and/or release of hazardous materials following a major emergency or disaster.

ESF-11 Agriculture and natural Resources: Coordinates and manages activities that protect crops, livestock and poultry during emergencies or disasters. Coordinates the control, management or eradication of any invasive plant, insect or animal species that is of significant threat to public health, the environment or the economy.



ESF-12 Energy: Gathers, assesses and shares information on energy system damage and estimates the impact of energy system outages within the affected area.

ESF-13 Public Safety and Security: Provides law enforcement support during an emergency or disaster. Coordinates with the FBI and County officials in the suspected or actual incidence of a terrorist attack. Coordinates with other local entities in the event of mass demonstrations, celebrations, civil unrest and other events where crowd control is necessary.

ESF-14 Community Recovery, Mitigation and Economic Stabilization: Coordinates programs that address identified recovery and mitigation needs and promotes stronger, more resilient communities through the implementation of pre- and post- hazard mitigation activities. Coordinates federal support to state, tribal and local governments, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector.

ESF-15 Emergency Public Information and External Communications: Provides public information support within the EOC and coordinates with the Joint Information Center (JIC), when activated. The JIC is established to provide accurate and coordinated information to the public in an expedient manner during emergencies or disasters.

K. Federal Government

Under the National Response Framework (NRF) and other federal emergency plans, the federal government may provide assistance to a State upon the request of the Governor or when primary federal jurisdiction is involved.

The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (PL l93-288, as amended provides the authority for the Federal government to responds to disasters and emergencies in order to provide assistance to save lives and protect public health, safety, and property.

Federal assistance to supplement state and local government response efforts.

L. Tribal Nations: Tribal Nations located within the County of Elko are recognized as sovereign nations. The residents of these tribal nations are also citizens of Nevada and the county within which they reside. An emergency or disaster may occur for which the members of the tribal nation cannot provide satisfactory resolution. In such a situation, tribal nations have the ability to request direct assistance from the county in which they reside as well as the State of Nevada. In addition, FEMA will accept direct requests for support from federally recognized tribal nations.

M. Volunteer and Private Sector Organizations: Volunteer and private sector organizations provide assistance as outlined in their respective charters, bylaws, or agreements with government agencies. Tasking is provided through the ESF’s that typically have a vested or common interest in daily activities (e.g. ESF 4 in relation to volunteer and/or private fire response entities and ESF 6 Mass Care, CERT and Red Cross may assist with sheltering.)

The private sector represents a large percentage of the economic activity of Elko County. Considering and engaging the private sector in all stages of planning and implementation is



critical for a successful response by local government to emergencies, disasters or catastrophic incidents. In addition, business is in the unique position of understanding the impact during and after an incident to supply chains, and the massive re-leveraging of resources and assets to recover, stabilize, and restore confidence in, and reconstitute parts of the economy.

N. Subject Matter Experts

A subject-matter expert (SME) is a person who is an authority in a particular area or topic. This individual has a deep understanding of a particular process, function, technology, machine, material, data or type of equipment.

VII CONCEPT OF OPERATIONSThe objective of the Elko County Emergency Operations Plan and Program is to protect public health and safety and preserve public and private property.

A. General

1. It is the responsibility of Elko County to protect public health and safety and preserve property from the effects of all hazardous events. The County has the primary role in identifying and mitigating hazards, preparing for responding to and managing the recovery from emergency situations that affect the local communities.

2. It is impossible for government to do everything that is required to protect the lives and property of the population. Local citizens have the responsibility to prepare themselves and their families to cope with emergency situation and manage their affairs and property in ways that will aid the government in managing emergencies. Elko County will assist their citizens in carrying out these responsibilities by providing public information and instructions prior to and during emergency situation through the Emergency Management Office.

3. Local government is responsible for organizing, training and equipping local emergency responders and emergency management personnel, providing appropriate emergency facilities, providing suitable warning and communications systems, and for contracting for emergency services. The state and federal governments offer programs that provide some assistance with portions of these responsibilities.

4. To achieve these objective, Elko County has organized an emergency management program that is both integrated (employs the resources of government, organized volunteer groups and business) and comprehensive (addresses preparedness, response, mitigation, and recovery). This plan is part of the preparedness activities.

5. This plan is based on an all-hazard approach to emergency planning. It addresses general functions that may need to be performed during any emergency situation.



6. Departments and agencies tasked in this plan are expected to develop and keep current standard operating procedures that describe how emergency tasks will be performed. Departments and agencies are charged with ensuring the training and equipment necessary for an appropriate response are in place.

7. This plan is based upon the concept that emergency functions must be performed by many departments or agencies generally parallel to some of the normal day-to-day functions. To the extent possible, the same personnel and material resources used for day-to-day activities will be employed during emergency situations. Because personnel and equipment resources are limited, some routine functions that do not contribute directly to the emergency may be suspended for the duration of an emergency. The personnel, equipment and supplies that would normally be required for those functions will be redirected to accomplish emergency tasks.

8. Elko County has adopted the National Incident Management System (NIMS) in accordance with the President’s Homeland Security Directive (HSPD)-5. The adoption of NIMS will provide a consistent approach to the effective management of situations involving natural or man-made disasters, or terrorism. NIMS will allow local emergency managers to integrate response activities using a set of standardized organizational structures designed to improve interoperability between all levels of government, private sector and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

9. This plan, in accordance with the National Response Plan (NRP), is an integral part of the national effort to prevent, and reduce America’s vulnerability to terrorism, major disasters, and other emergencies, minimize the damage and recover from attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies that occur. In the event of an incident of National significance, as defined in (HSPD)-5, Elko County will integrate all operations with all levels of government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations through the use of NPR coordinating structures, process, and protocols.

B. State of Readiness Levels Elko County

Elko County utilizes the NIMS incident typing criteria to classify its four readiness levels and appropriate response to meet the potential needs and demands of the emergency or planned event. The following Readiness Levels will be used as a means of increasing Elko County’s emergency alert posture. These are described as follows:

Lowest State of Readiness



SteadyState

Standard operations are occurring that do not require assistance to any jurisdiction. Emergency Management personnel involvement consists only of the Emergency Manager to respond to requests and to monitor the situation.

Level 1Normal

Conditions

Emergency incidents occur and local officials are notified. One or more departments or agencies respond to handle the incident; an incident command post may be established. Limited assistance may be requested from other jurisdictions pursuant to established inter-local agreements.

The incident can be handled with one or two single resources with up to six personnel.

The incident is contained within the first operational period and often with an hour to a few hours after resources arrive on the scene. (Examples: a vehicle fire, an injured person, or a law enforcement traffic stop.)

The normal operations of government are not affected. Elko County Emergency Manager may respond for logistical support.

Level 2Increased Readiness

Increase readiness above that required for normal conditions. The situation presents a greater potential threat than “Level 1”, but

poses no immediate threat to life and/or property. Increased readiness actions may be appropriate when the situations similar to the following occur: Extreme Weather Threat, Flash Flood Advisory, Wildland Fire Threat or Mass Gathering.

Command and General Staff functions are activated only if needed. Several Resources are required to mitigate the incident. The incident is usually limited to one operational period in the control

phase. The agency administrator may have briefings and ensures the

complexity analysis and delegations of authority are updated. No written Incident Action Plan (IAP) is required, but documented

operational briefings will be completed for all incoming resources. The role of the Emergency Manager includes operational plans

including objectives and priorities.

Level 3High

Readiness

High Readiness refers to a situation with a significant potential and probability of causing loss of life and/or property. This condition will normally require some degree of warning to the public. Actions could be triggered by: Extreme Weather Threat within 72-hours, Flash Flood Warning, Winter Storm Watch or Warning, Civil disorder with large-scale localized violence is imminent.

When capabilities exceed initial emergency response, the appropriate ICS positions should be added to match the complexity of the incident.

Some or all of the Command and General Staff positions may be activated; ESF’s as well as Division / Group supervisors / Unit Leader level positions may be assigned.

A Type 3 Incident Management Team (IMT) or incident command organization manages initial action incidents with a significant number of resources, an extended attack incident until containment/control is achieved, or an expanding incident until transition to a Type II or Type



I team. The incident may extend into multiple operational periods. A written IAP may be required for each operational period.

Level 4Maximum Readiness

Maximum Readiness Maximum Readiness refers to situation that hazardous conditions are

imminent. This type of incident extends beyond the capabilities of local control

and is expected to go into multiple operation periods. A Level 4 incident may require the response of resources out of the

area, including regional and/or state resources, to effectively manage the operations, command and general staffing.

All ESF positions are filled. A written IAP is required for each operational period. May require the County Commission to declare a state of emergency.

The EOC is activated to an appropriate level during an event or incident. Dependent on the incident type and needs of the County or local governments. The EOC is activated to one of the following:

Steady State (Daily Operations): This is the normal operational state of the EOC day-to-day, staffed with only the Emergency Manager.

Partial Activation: Selected ESF personnel are notified. The EOC will be staffed by the Emergency Manager, necessary ESF Staff and external agency representatives as required.

Full Activation: All primary and support departments and agencies are notified. The EOC is staff by the Emergency Manager, ESF staff, and external agency representatives.

C. Operational Guidance

The components of the NIMS will be incorporated into all operations, which will provide a standardized framework that facilitates operations in all phases of emergency management.

Initial Response: Local emergency responders are likely to be the first on the scene of an emergency. They will normally take charge and remain in charge of the incident until it is resolved or others who have legal authority to do so assume responsibility.

1. Implementation of ICS:

a. The first local emergency responder to arrive at the scene of an emergency will implement the incident command system and serve as the incident commander until relieved by a senior responder or more qualified individual. The incident commander will establish an incident command post (ICP) and provide an assessment of the situation to local officials, identify response resources required, and direct the on-scene response from the ICP.



b. For some types of emergencies, a specific incident scene may not exist in the initial response phase and the County EOC may accomplish initial response actions, such as mobilizing personnel and equipment and issuing precautionary warning to the public. As the potential threat becomes clearer and specific impact site or sites identified, an incident command post may be established, and direction and control of the response transitioned to the Incident Commander.

2. Source and Use of Resources:

a. Elko County will use its own resources, all of which meet the requirements for resource management in accordance with the NIMS, to respond to emergency situations, purchasing supplies and equipment if necessary, and requires assistance if local resources are insufficient or inappropriate. Nevada Revised Statutes 414 provides that Elko County may request assistance of the State Division of Emergency Management when its resources are exceeded. If additional resources are required, Elko County will:b. Request those resources available pursuant to inter-local agreements. c. Request emergency service resources that have been contracted in advance. d. Request those resources available pursuant to Intra-state Mutual Aid System.e. Request assistance from volunteer groups active in disasters.f. Request assistance from industry or individuals who have resources needed to

deal with the emergency situation.

3. ICS – EOC Interface:

a. For major emergencies and disasters, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be activated and is located at the Elko County Sheriff’s Office, 775 West Silver Street, Elko, NV 89801. Due to the large coverage area of Elko County, the EOC will have the ability to be mobile. When the EOC is activated, it is essential to establish a division of responsibilities between the incident command post and the EOC. A general division of responsibilities is outlined below. It is essential that a precise division of responsibilities be determined for specific emergency operations.

4. Incident command is generally responsible for field operations, including:

a. Isolating the scene.b. Directing and controlling the on-scene response to the emergency situation and

managing the emergency resources committed there.c. Warning the population the area of the incident and providing emergency

instructions to them.d. Determining ad implementing protective measures (evacuation or sheltering-in-

place) for the population in the immediate area of the incident and for emergency responders at the scene.

e. Implementing traffic control arrangements in and around the incident scene.f. Requesting additional resources from the EOC.



5. The EOC is generally responsible for:

a. Providing resource support for the incident command operations.b. Issuing community-wide warnings.c. Issuing instructions and providing information to the public.d. Organizing and implementing large-scale evacuation.e. Organizing and implementing shelter and mass care arrangements for evacuees.f. Coordinating traffic control for large-scale evacuations.g. Requesting assistance from the State and other external sources.

6. In some large-scale emergencies or disasters, emergency operations with different objectives may be conducted at geographically separated scenes. In such situation, more than one incident command operation may be established. If this situation occurs, a transition to an Area Command or a Unified Area Command is desirable, and the allocation of resources to specific field operations will be coordinated through the EOC.

7. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC)

The EOC is organized based on the principles of ICS and has a basic structure that is flexible and can be readily adjusted to accommodate rapidly changing situations in the most efficient manner. The Elko County EOC is the central point in the county for the support and coordination of the county’s response to emergencies, disasters and planned special events. The EOC is maintained and staffed by the Emergency Manager and County personnel, augmented by SMEs and volunteers.

The Elko County EOC is organized by employing both principles of ICS and ESF into six sections: Command, Operations, Plans, Logistics, Finance and Recovery. The ESFs are organized primarily with the Operations Section with other function-specific ESFs aligned within the other EOC Sections.

a. EOC Manager: is responsible for the overall operation of the EOC during activation. May need to be occupied 24-hours per day.

b. Operations Section: is responsible for coordinating and directing resource management and field activities in response to emergencies and recovery from disasters. May need to be occupied 24-hours per day.

c. Planning Section: is responsible for collecting, analyzing, formatting, archiving and distributing emergency/disaster information. The planning section keeps track of resources and mission assignments, and documents the EOCT’s (EOC Team) activities in a periodical Situation Report (SitRep). SitReps are typically produced once per operational period. The planning section is responsible for the development of an Incident Action Plan (IAP) for each operational period. The planning section facilitates communications between affected jurisdictions. May need to be occupied 24-hours per day.



d. Logistics Section: is responsible for acquiring, collecting and moving resources to enhance response to and recovery from emergencies and disasters; establishing and maintaining communications and data processing capabilities; and developing and maintaining facilities required to support disaster operations. Logistics section contracts, purchases goods and services necessary for county response to and recovery from disasters and emergencies. May need to be occupied 24-hours per day.

e. Finance/Administration Section: is responsible for processing invoices and assuring prompt payment for goods and services necessary to support emergency response and disaster recovery efforts. In addition, the finance section is responsible for documenting all disaster-related costs and projecting county funding requirements. May be occupied 14-hours per day.

8. Emergency Facilities

a. Incident Command Post: Except when an emergency situation threatens but has not yet occurred, and those situations for which there is no specific hazard impact site (such as a severe winter storm or area-wide utility outage), an incident command post or commands posts will be stablished in the vicinity of the incident site(s). The mobile command vehicle may also be deployed. As noted previously, the incident commander will be responsible for directing the emergency response and managing the resources at the incident scene.

b. Emergency Operating Center. When major emergencies and disasters have occurred or appear imminent, the EOC will be activated, which is located at the Elko County Sheriff’s office, 775 West Silver Street, Elko, NV 89801. EOC staffing and internal operations will be in accordance with the Elko County EOP.

c. The following individuals are authorized to activate the EOC:i. The Elko County Commission Chairpersonii. The Elko County Manageriii. The Elko County Emergency Manageriv. Incident Commander.

d. Representatives of those departments and agencies assigned emergency functions in this plan will staff the EOC.

e. Elko County’s alternate EOCs are located where needed through establishment of the mobile EOCs as needed.

f. Elko County will have a mobile command and control vehicle, operated jointly with the Elko County Emergency Manager and the Elko County Sheriff, which may be used as an alternate incident command post.

9. Joint Information Center (JIC)



The Joint Information Center (JIC) is responsible to community relations and provide a liaison with the print and electronic media during activation. They maintain pre-formatted news releases as necessary and prepare others on an as-needed basis. They insure all necessary emergency information is available in as many public venues as possible. May be occupied 24-hour per day.

The JIC collects information into a single collection point in order to design information for release that is consistent amongst agencies involved in the response. In addition, the JIC provides a focal point for the media in sending press releases out to the public. Press releases from the JIC generally describe damage information, impacted areas of an emergency, safety and precautions, activities of government responses, and occasionally information on where to seek help. The JIC works in coordination with the Operations and Planning Sections to exchange and obtain information for the benefit of both functions.

10. Line of Succession during an emergency or disaster.

a. The line of succession for the Elko County Commission is:i. Elko County Commission Chairpersonii. Elko County Commission Vice-Chairpersoniii. Remaining Commissioners

b. The line of succession for the Elko County Manager is:i. Elko County Managerii. Elko County Assistant Manager/CFOiii. County Emergency Manager

c. The line of succession for the Emergency Manager is:i. Elko County Managerii. Elko County Sheriff

d. The lines of succession for each of the county department and agency heads shall be in accordance with the SOPs established by those departments and agencies.

D. State, Federal and Other Assistance

1. If local resources are inadequate to deal with an emergency situation, the Emergency Manager may request assistance from the Nevada Division of Emergency Management (NDEM). State assistance furnished to local governments is intended to supplement local resources and not substitute for such resources, including mutual aid resources, equipment purchases or leases, or resources covered by emergency service contracts.

2. Requests for state assistance should be made to the Nevada Division of Emergency Management through the Duty Officer, located at the NDEM State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at 2478 Fairview Drive in Carson City, (775) 687-0400.



E. Monitoring, Detection, Alert and Warning

Elko County relies on various redundant systems provided by State and Federal agencies to help with alerts and warnings for its citizens.

1. Weather and Flooding

a. The National Weather Service (NWS) is a component of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and exists to provide weather, water and climate data, forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property and enhancement of the national economy. The NWS maintains an office in Elko, Nevada. This office collects and disseminates climate and weather-related information to stakeho9ders and the public.

2. Wildland Fire

a. The Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) and the Bureau of Land Management perform an annual update to the County Commission regarding the likely-hood of fires in Elko County. They provide intelligence related to current fire activity, fire danger, seven-day fire potential, red flag warnings and fire weather alerts.

3. Seismological

a. The Nevada Seismological Laboratory performs instrumental studies of earthquakes in the Nevada region. The laboratory operates a statewide network of seismographic stations and investigates the sizes, frequencies of occurrence, and distribution of earthquakes in the region. The Nevada Seismological Laboratory disseminates seismic information to stakeholders and the public

4. Nevada Threat Analysis Center (NTAC)

a. The Nevada Threat Analysis Center (NTAC) provides information bulletins to Elko County Law Enforcement regarding possible issues and suspects.

5. Alerts and Warning

a. Alters and Warnings are primarily the responsibility of the Elko County Emergency Manager and the Central Dispatch Authority.

b. The County’s ability to maintain and operate a 24-hour warning point with the capability of warning the public of an imminent threat or actual threat and coordinate public information activities during an emergency or disaster relies on the state systems for notification. This includes maintaining the State Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Warning System (NAWAS).

6. Communications Systems and Interoperability



a. Elko County is proceeding with Next Generation 911 (NG911) upgrade for the three Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs). The three PSAPs are located in City of Elko, City of West Wendover and Owyhee, Duck Valley Indian Reservation. These PSAPs provide service for Police, Fire, EMS, Ambulance, Elko County Sheriff’s Office, Juvenile Probation, Reach Air Wells, Fire, Carlin Fire and Ambulance, Jackpot Fire Elko County Ambulance, Carine PD Western Shoshone DPS, Southfork tribal and West Wendover PD.

b. The Elko County Sheriff’s Office, Elko County Ambulance, NHP and a few other agencies utilize the 800 MHz radios, while fire and other agencies utilize the VHF radios, including encrypted radios for the City of Elko PD. There are communication issues at times. To combat the lack of interoperability, a patching system was created at the Elko Central Dispatch Authority. Additionally, the use of a dispatch operator to relay messages has been used as well. The County is currently working on creating a new system to provide interoperability between jurisdictions.

c. In addition to the PSAPs systems, Elko County maintains a radio cash of both the 800 MHz and VHF radios for emergencies. Elko County maintains a communications vehicle with all types of radios, including HAM radios and acts as the backup to the Elko County Dispatch Authority (City of Elko PSAP).

d. Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) (RACES) is well developed in Elko County and the State of Nevada with a large percentage of its FCC licensed members certified in introductory ICS terminology and procedure. Many ARES members are also members of the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES). These auxiliary communicators have developed HF, VHF and UHF networks throughout the State, many with emergency power capabilities. Radio repeaters, are listed in the appropriate Regional Tactical Interoperable Communications Plans (TICP) and represent a useful resource for auxiliary communications. Further, in cooperation with many hospitals throughout the State, the “HamLink” packet radio data network permits the exchange of message traffic outside of commercially available infrastructure.

e. Nevada Wing of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), also known as the Air Force Auxiliary, maintains HF and VHF radios, airborne repeaters, and a cadre of ICS-trained operators. CAP also maintains a collection of VHF voice repeaters throughout the State, although they are not inked to each other or outside agencies. The emergency services mission of the CAP focuses on search and rescue.

f. Nevada National Guard/Civil Support Team (CST). This team maintains communications assets that may be deployed for interoperability. CST staff is all-hazards trained. Two communications vehicles are available, one is capable of voice and data communications via satellite and vhf/UHF, the second features advanced capabilities for HF, video, and secure communications. The National Guard also maintains a fleet of video relay vehicles that may be deployed to anywhere in the State in the event of the inability of existing networks to provide tactical or operational video fees. This fleet provide a range in excess of 300 miles to provide emergency transmission capabilities.

F. Declaration Process



1. The County initiates the declaration process when it is evident that its resources have been or are anticipated to be depleted. The highest elected local official requesting state assistance may then make a petition to the state. The state will support the local government with its resources until such time that it is evident its resources have been or are anticipated to be depleted also. If the decision to make a declaration is made by the Governor or Legislature, the state will petition the President of the United States for assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency Regional Director. The Federal Government may then support the State with its resource until resolution and recovery are achieved.

2. County Declaration Process

The County Emergency Manager will meet with the County Manager and the County Commission Chair to discuss the option of a County Emergency Declaration or upon receipt of a declaration of a local emergency from an incorporated city, township or tribal nation within the boundaries of a county, the official with appropriate authority will:

a. Provide available assistance requested to contain the incident (i.e., the Sheriff, the county public works entity, the county health organization, etc.

b. Ensure NDEM is made aware that a situation exists which may require the declaration of a county emergency and documentation will be forthcoming. Requests for state assistance should be made to the Nevada Division of Emergency Management Chief through the Duty Officer, located at the NDEM State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) at 2478 Fairview Drive in Carson City, (775) 687-0400.

c. In the event a situation exists in any unincorporated portions of the county, which may affect lives and property, the county will take all necessary measures to bring the situation under control, utilizing all resources under county government control.

d. If the situation in either incorporated or unincorporated portions of the county becomes beyond the capability and resources of the county to control, the Chairperson of the Board of County Commissioners, if authorized by ordinance or resolution, may by declaration state an emergency or disaster or a county local emergency exists. The Elko County Commission Chairperson may issue the declaration by executive order or by proclamation.

The Chairperson of the Board of County Commissioners for the unincorporated portion of the county shall deem that an emergency or disaster exists. The emergency or disaster may exist due to fire, flood, earthquake, explosion, bombing, acts of terrorism or any other natural or man-made emergency or disaster or by reasons of threats or occurrences of riots or other acts of civil disobedience, which endanger life or property within the county, or the unincorporated areas of the county or portion thereof.



e. The local emergency declaration, along with a request for assistance, shall be forwarded to the Chief of NDEM in an expedient manner.

f. The Chef of NDEM will advise the Governor of the situation.

g. The Chairperson will convene the County Commission as a result of the emergency or disaster. NRS 414.090 (2)…”Each political subdivision may exercise the powers vested under this section in the light of the exigencies of the extreme emergency or disaster without regard to time-consuming procedures and formalities prescribed by law, except constitutional requirements, pertaining to the performance of public work, entering into contracts, the incurring of obligations, the employment of temporary workers, the rental of equipment, the purchase of supplies and materials, the levying of taxes, and the appropriation of expenditure of public funds.”

h. Nevada statutes provide local government, principally the chief elected official, with a number of powers to control emergencies. If necessary, these powers will be used during emergencies. These powers include:

i. Suspending procedural laws and rules to facilitate a timely responseii. Using all available resources of government and commandeering private

property, subject to compensation, to cope with the disaster.

iii. Restricting the movement of people and occupancy of premises.

iv. Prohibiting the sale or transportation of certain substances.

v. Implementing price controls.

vi. All other actions deemed necessary for providing effective response.

3. A local disaster declaration activates the recovery and rehabilitation aspects of this plan. A local disaster declaration may obtain state and federal disaster recovery assistance.

4. Tribal Nations Declaration Process

Although the tribal nations located within Elko County are recognized as sovereign, the residents of these individual tribes are considered citizens of the county. Any emergency or disaster, which may occur upon a reservation, for which the members of the nation or reservation cannot provide satisfactory resolution, may require county, state and/or federal involvement for resolution of the situation. When this occurs, the tribal nation will receive the same support as if it were an incorporated community with the county.

Utilizing established protocols for support, tribal nations will issue a local emergency or disaster declaration to Elko County for addressing a particular problem. In such



instances when the local government cannot fulfill the needs of the tribal nation, a petition to the State for assistance can be made individual or in cooperation with the County.

G. Preparedness

Elko County maintains a host of all-hazards preparedness program and activities designed to keep the county prepared for any emergency or disaster. They include the following:

1. All-Hazards Planning

The County utilized an all-hazards approach in all of its planning programs. The goal is the section is to ensure that the County and its first responders are prepared for prompt, efficient response and recovery to protect lives and property affected by disasters. Programs for which the county is responsible include, Comprehensive Emergency Management Planning, Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government, Catastrophic Planning, and receipt and review of all emergency preparedness plans. In addition, the County Emergency Management supports and participates with the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) and State Emergency drills, training and exercises.

2. Training and Exercises

Training is coordinated with courses in the field for primarily county and municipal responders. Exercises provide for the validation of plans, policies, procures and skills sets.

H. Response Operations

1. EOC Activation: When the Elko County EOC is activated, the Emergency Manager will notify the County Manager, the Sheriff and the necessary ESFs and SMEs. Once the EOC is activated, the Emergency Manager will provide a quick synopsis of the situation. The EOC will follow the protocols set forth in this plan.

2. Maintaining a Common Operating Picture

A common Operating picture allows on-scene and off-scene personnel to have the same information about an incident. This is accomplished in the EOC through a variety of measures including: coordinated development of Incident Action Plans (IAPs), Situation Reports (SitReps), GIS enabled products, Specialty Plans and ESF/Branch briefings. Situational Briefings will be held each morning and evening as necessary. Additional conference calls will be made to keep the NDEM informed.

I. Recovery Operations

1. Transition from Response to RecoveryWhen the county and the Governor acknowledge a Declaration of Emergency, the EOC will initiate response operations to assist communities impacted by the event. As response operations are underway, the EOC will simultaneously begin the planning of



recovery operations. To meet the objective, a lead for recovery will function as the County Disaster Recovery Coordinator. This could be the Emergency Manager.

The Disaster Recovery Coordinator will arrange for Preliminary Damage Assessment teams to determine the extent of the damage in the communities. The Coordinator will work with Local and State officials to complete the necessary documentation for any claims.

2. Recovery Assistance ProgramsRecovery assistance programs have been made available through a variety of programs and public laws.

a. Robert T. Stafford Relief and Emergency Assistance ActThe following are the primary categories of disaster aid available under the Robert T. Stafford Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Public Law 93-288.

Individual Assistance (IA) Immediately after a disaster declaration, disaster workers arrive and set up a central field office to coordinate the recovery effort. Affected residents and business owners in registering for Individual Assistance publish a toll-free telephone number for use. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are also opened where disaster victims can meet with program representatives and obtain information about available aid and the recovery process. Disaster aid to individuals generally falls into the following categories:

o Disaster Housing may be available for displaced persons whose residences were heavily damaged or destroyed. Funding can also be provided for housing repairs and replacement of damaged items to make homes habitable.

o Disaster Grants are available to help meet other disaster related needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance and other aid programs. These may include replacement of personal property, transportation, medical, dental and funeral expenses.

o Low-Interest Disaster Loans are available after a disaster for homeowners and renters from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover uninsured property losses. Loans may be for repair or replacement of homes, automobiles, clothing or other damaged personal property. Loans are also available to businesses for property loss and economic injury. SBA loans offer low-interest, fixed rate loans to disaster victims, enabling them to repair or replace property damaged or destroyed in federally declared disasters. It also offers such loans to affected small businesses to help them recover from economic injury caused by the disaster. The County must meet eligibility requirements to qualify for SBA.

Other Forms of Individual Assistanceo Other Needs Assistance (ONA)



o Unemployment Assistanceo Food Coupons and Distributiono Food Commoditieso Relocation Assistanceo Legal Serviceso Crisis Counseling Assistance and Trainingo Community Disaster Loans

b. Public Assistance (PA) Seven categories of public assistance have been established by FEMA to differentiate between the aid provided in the immediate aftermath of a disaster to save lives and property, and the long-term assistance provided to help communities rebuild. The categories are as follows:

Category A: Debris Removal Category B: Emergency Protective Measures Category C: Roads and Bridges Category D: Water Control Facilities Category E: Buildings and Equipment Category F: Utilities Category G: Parks, Recreational, and Other.

A presidential major disaster declaration initiates a process that begins with applicants filing a Request for Public Assistance at an applicant’s briefing. These briefings are publicized through the media and notifications to county emergency management directors in accordance with 44CFR Par 206, Subpart G & H. See the Nevada State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan for further details as how to file.

J. Hazard Mitigation

FEMA also provides Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, and Section 406 of the Public Assistance Program, which assists survivors and public entities to mitigate the life and property risks of future disasters.

1. Mitigation Measures

Hazard mitigation involves reducing or eliminating long-term risk to people and property from damage due to hazards. Elko County maintains a “Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. This plan is review every five years for compliance and completion.

2. Hazard Mitigation Planning

Hazard mitigation planning involves identification of hazards, assessing the frequency and magnitude of the hazard, assessing the vulnerability of the built and natural environment to those risks, and identifying mitigation goals, objectives and actions to address these risks and vulnerabilities. This information is maintained in a supplemental document called the “Elko County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan”.



VIII ADMINISTRATION AND SUPPORTA. Agreements and Contracts

1. Should Elko County’s resources prove to be inadequate during an emergency, requests will be made for assistance from other local jurisdictions, other agencies, and industry in accordance with existing mutual-aid agreements.

2. All agreements will be entered into by authorized officials and should be in writing whenever possible. Agreements and contracts should identify the local officials authorized to request assistance pursuant to those documents.

3. All Agreements and contracts will follow Elko County Policies, Nevada Revised Statues and Federal Emergency Management Agency procurement policies.

B. Reports (All reports will utilize ICS Forms when possible.)

1. Hazardous Materials Spill Reporting: When there is a release of hazardous materials of a type or quantity that must be reported to state and federal agencies, the department or agency responsible for the spill shall make the required reported. If the party responsible for a reportable spill cannot be located, the Incident Commander shall ensure that the required report(s) are made.

2. Initial Emergency Report: A short report should be prepared and transmitted by the EOC when an on-going emergency incident appears likely to worsen and we may need assistance from other local governments or the state.

3. Situation Report: A daily situation report will be prepared and distributed by the EOC during major emergency or disasters.

4. Other Reports: Several other reports covering specific functions are covered in this plan.

C. Records (All records will utilize ICS Forms when possible.)

1. Record Keeping for Emergency Operations

Elko County is responsible for establishing the administrative controls necessary to manage the expenditure of funds and to provide reasonable accountability and justification for expenditures made to support emergency operations. This shall be done in accordance with the established County fiscal policies and standard costs accounting procedures.



a. Incident Costs: All department and agencies shall maintain records identifying the use of personnel, including hours worked by regular hours and overtime hours, equipment, and supplies during the response. Incident costs will be tracked for the emergency; however, incident costs occurred during the normal operations for responding to an emergency cannot be reimbursed by the state or federal agencies.

b. Emergency or Disaster Costs: For major emergencies or disasters, all departments and agencies participating in the emergency response shall maintain detailed costs.Costs included but not limited to:

i. Personnel Costs, including Overtime.ii. Equipment Operations Costsiii. Costs for Leased or Rented equipmentiv. Costs for Contract Services to Support Emergency Operationsv. Costs of Specialized Supplies Expended for Emergency Operations.

These records may be used to recover sots from the responsible party or insurers or as a basis for requesting financial assistance for cert allowable response and recovery costs from the state and/or federal government.

2. Activity LogsThe Incident Command Post and the EOC shall maintain accurate logs recording key response activities including:

Activation or deactivation of emergency facilities. Emergency notifications to other local governments and to state and federal

agencies. Significant changes in the emergency situation. Major commitments, resources, or requests for additional resources from

external sources. Issuance of protective action recommendations to the public. Evacuations. Casualties. Containment or termination of the incident

3. Preservation of Records

a. In order to continue normal government operations following an emergency situation disaster, vital records must be protected. These include legal documents, as well as, property and tax records. The principal causes of damage to records are fire and water; therefore, essential records should be protected accordingly.

b. If records are damaged during an emergency situation, Elko County will seek professional assistance to preserve and restore them.

D. Consumer ProtectionConsumer complaints regarding alleged unfair or illegal business practices often occur in the aftermath of a disaster. Such complaints will be referred to the Elko County District Attorney Office.



E. Post-Incident and Exercise Review(s)

The Elko County Emergency Manager is responsible for organizing and conducting a critique following the conclusion of a significant emergency event/incident, exercise, training, emergency or disaster. The After Action Report (AAR) will entail both written and verbal input from all appropriate participants. An Improvement plan will be developed based on the deficiencies identified and an individual department, or agency will be assigned responsibility for correcting the deficiency and due date shall be established for that action.

IX PLAN DEVELOPMENT AND MAINTENANCEA. Plan Development

The Elko County Commission is responsible for approving and promulgating this plan.

B. Review and Update

1. The Elko County Emergency Manager shall determine the distribution of this plan and its annexes. In general, copies of plans and annexes should be distributed to those individuals, departments, agencies, and organizations tasked in this document. Copies should also be set-aside for the EOC and other emergency facilities.

2. The Basic Plan should include a distribution list that indicates who receives copies of the basic plan and the various annexes to it.

3. In 2019, Legislature passed Senate Bill 69 which amended NRS 239c.250 regarding County and Incorporated City Emergency Operations Plans as such:

“3. Each political subdivision shall review its response plan at least once each year and, as soon as practicable after the review is completed but not later than December 31 of each year, file with the Division and each response agency that provides services to the political subdivision:

(a) Any revised response plan resulting from the review; or

(b) A written certification that the most recent response plan filed pursuant to subsection 1 is the current response plan for the political subdivision.”

Senate Bill 69 requires DEM to submit a report by February 15 of each year to the governing bodies of each political subdivision whether the political subdivision is compliant with the requirements of NRS 239c.250 as amended by SB69.

C. References

1. County/Local



County Resolution for NIMS Implementation, dated 2007 Inter-local Agreements and Contracts. Elko County Code: Title 11, Miscellaneous Regulations, Chapter 3, Emergency

Operations; 11-3-1 thru 11-3-10. Elko County Emergency Operations Plan 2007-2008.

2. Nevada Revised Statutes, as amended

Chapter 223, Governor Chapter 232B, Legislative Review of Public Agencies Chapter 233B, Nevada Administrative Procedure Act Chapter 239C, Homeland Security Chapter 244, Counties: Government Chapter 248, Sheriffs Chapter 277, Cooperative Agreements Chapter 278, Planning and Zoning Chapter 318, General Improvement Districts Chapter 353, State Financial Administration Chapter 408, Highways and Roads Chapter 413, Civil Air Patrol Chapter 414, Emergency Management Chapter 415, Interstate Civil Defense and Disaster Compact Chapter 415A, Emergency Volunteer Health Practitioners (Uniform Act) Chapter 416, Emergencies Concerning Water or Energy Chapter 422, State Welfare Administration Chapter 450B, Emergency Medical Services Chapter 469, Hazardous Materials Chapter 473, Fire Protection districts Receiving Federal Aid Chapter 474, County Fire Protection Districts Chapter 477, State Fire Marshal Chapter 523, Energy Chapter 590, Petroleum Products and Antifreeze Title 39, Mental Health Title 40, Public Health and Safety

3. Nevada, Regional and NGO Plans and Authorities

Nevada State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, January 2014. U.S.C. Chapter 1, American National Red Cross FEMA National Urban Search and Rescue Response System Series Operation System Description and Mission Operational Procedures Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act Attorney General’s opinion #265 dated December 13, 1961 State of Nevada Radiological Response plan, as amended State Emergency Communications Committee, Nevada Emergency Alert System



4. Federal Authorities

Emergency Interim Succession Act, 63-5B, Title 44, CFR Federal Emergency Management Agency Regulations, as amended.

The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, amendments to Public Law 93-288, as amended.

Title 44, CFR, Federal Emergency Management Agency Regulations as amended.

Homeland Security Presidential Directive 5 (HSPD-5 Disaster Response Recovery Act, 63-5A.

National Guard Regulations 500-1, Military Support to Civilian Authorities, February, 1996

FEMA National Urban Search and Rescue Response System Series National Response Framework, Department of Homeland Security, May 2013 Executive Order 13347 – Individuals with Disabilities in Emergency

Preparedness. Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act, Title III Emergency Planning

and Community Right-To-Know (Public Law 99-499). Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act

(CERCLA). Clean Water Act, as amended, 33 U>S>C> 1321 Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (P.L.101-380) Clean Air Act, as amended, (P.L.10 1-549) 1997 Uniform Fire ode, Article 74-Article 82, Special subjects, Storing and

handling of hazardous materials. 1997 Uniform Fire Code, Part IX Appendices, Special hazards, Appendices

A,B,E,F,G & H. Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry, Subpart H-

Hazardous Materials, 29 CFR, 1910.120,1995. 10 U.S.C. Chapter 18, Military Support for Civilian Law Enforcement Agencies 18 U.S.C. Chapter 113B Terrorism Federal Radiological Emergency Response Plan, May 1 1996 Clarke-McNary Act, Vol. 43, U.S. Stats. At Large, Chapter 348, p653 – Title 16

U.S.C.A. sec. 471 et. seq.

ATTACHMENT 1DISTRIBUTION LIST

Jurisdiction/Agency Distribution Date Emergency Manager _______________

Emergency Operations Center _______________



County Manager _______________

Nevada Division of Emergency Management _______________

Each Elko County Commissioner _______________

Assistant County Manager _______________

Elko County Sheriff _______________

Emergency Medical Services Director _______________

Police Chiefs (Cities of Elko, Carlin, Wells, West Wendover) _______________

Fire Chiefs (Cities of Elko, Carlin, Wells, West Wendover) _______________

Elko County Health Officer _______________

Finance Director _______________

County Public Works Director _______________

Planning/Zoning/Buildings Director _______________

Human Resources Director _______________

County District Attorney _______________

Justices of the Peace _______________

County Coroner _______________

ARES/RACES _______________

Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital _______________

County/City Animal Control _______________

Nevada Dept. of Transportation Regional Director _______________

Elko County School District _______________

Elko County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) _______________

Elko County Citizens Emergency Response Team _______________

ATTACHMENT 2ORGANIZATION CHART



ATTACHMENT 3SUPPORT FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES



Department /Agency

ES

F 1:

Tra

nspo

rtatio

n

ES

F 2:

Com

ms/

IT

ES

F 3:

Pub

lic W

orks

&

Eng

inee

ring

ES

F 4:

Fire

fight

ing

ES

F 5:

Em

erge

ncy

Man

agem

ent

ES

F 6:

Mas

s C

are

ES

F 7:

Pur

chas

ing

ES

F 8:

Pub

lic

Hea

lth/M

edia

l Ser

vice

s

ES

F 9:

Sea

rch

&

Res

cue

ES

F 10

: Haz

ardo

us

Mat

eria

ls

ES

F 11

: Agr

icul

ture

and

N

atur

al R

esou

rces

ES

F 12

: Ene

rgy

ES

F 13

: Pub

lic S

afet

y &

Sec

urity

ES

F 14

: Rec

over

y

ES

F 15

: Pub

lic

Info

rmat

ion

County Commission S S SCounty Manager S S S PEmergency Manager P P S S P SLE – Sheriff S S S S P P P P S S P S PFire – ECFPD S S P P S S P S SDistrict Attorney S SHuman Resources S S S S S P SAnimal Control P S S PFacilities Maintenance S P S S S P PInformation & Tech. P S S S S PRecorder’s Office S SFinance/Fiscal Affairs S S S P S S PAssessment/Taxation SSearch & Rescue S S PLand Use Planning S P S P S PTransportation P S S SLibrariesRoads P S S S PSchools – ECSD P S P S S SNV Dept. of Health S P

P – Indicates Primary Responsibility

S – Indicates Support Responsibility

ATTACHMENT 4SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT(S)



NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

PRIMARY AGENCY: National Weather Service - Elko (hereafter LKN)

Primary Contact Number: (775) 778-6720

SUPPORT AGENCIES:

National Weather Service California Nevada River Forecast Center Colorado Basin River Forecast Center National Weather Service - Reno, NV Northwest River Forecast Center Space Weather Prediction Center Storm Prediction Center Weather Prediction Center Western Region HeadquartersUS Geological Survey (hydrology and earthquakes)US Forest Service (hydrology and fire)Bureau of Land Management (hydrology and fire)Nevada Department of TransportationNevada Highway PatrolNevada Division of Forestry (Fire)Elko County Emergency Management Fire Department Sheriff’s OfficeCity of Elko Fire Department Parks and Recreation Public Works

I. INTRODUCTION

A. PURPOSEProvide weather and/or natural disaster support to the Elko County Emergency Manager and other partners as requested.

B. SCOPEProvide weather forecasts, watches, warnings, in support of first responders, law enforcement, and all other support entities to ensure the safety of all as well as protection of property. This basic information is provided via the LKN website or email/texts when the FEMA app is downloaded and installed on a cell phone. Additional support beyond this (i.e. tailored briefings, spots, hysplit runs, etc.) requires a request by Elko County Emergency Manager (or their designee).

II. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES



AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES

PRIMARY AGENCY:

National Weather Service - Elko

Provides continuous weather support to all agencies

Makes available communications network (NOAA Weather Radio, social media) to support any operations to all partners

Provides scientific expertise in weather, hydrology, climate, and space weather to help determine most viable courses of action

SUPPORT AGENCY: California-Nevada River Forecast Center

Provides hydrologic support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Colorado Basin River Forecast Center

Provides hydrologic support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

National Weather Service - Reno, NV

Provides hydrologic support to LKN Provide backup support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Northwest River Forecast Center

Provides backup hydrologic support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Space Weather Prediction Center

Provides space weather support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Storm Prediction Center

Provides weather support (i.e.severe or tornado watches) to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Weather Prediction Center

Provides weather support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Western Region Headquarters

Regional Operating Center (ROC)

ROC provides assistant to LKN during high impactful events

ROC feeds information to NWS Headquarters Divisions provide administrative, system, and

facility support to LKN

SUPPORT AGENCY:

US Geological Survey (hydrology and earthquakes)

Provides hydrology support to LKN through its network of stream gauges and debris flow mapping (after wildfires)

Provides support for earthquake detection



and notification

SUPPORT AGENCY:

US Forest Service (hydrology and fire)

Provides hydrology support to LKN through its debris flow mapping (after wildfires)

Provides wildfire support through weather observations from fire crews

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Bureau of Land Management (hydrology and fire)

Provides hydrology support to LKN through its debris flow mapping (after wildfires)


SUPPORT AGENCY:

Nevada Department of Transportation

Provides support through weather observations from road crews

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Nevada Highway Patrol

Provides support through weather observations from officers

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Nevada Division of Forestry (fire)


SUPPORT AGENCY:

Elko County Emergency Management

Provides support through weather observations from firefighters

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Elko County Sheriff’s Office

Provides support through weather observations from officers

SUPPORT AGENCY:

Elko County Fire Department


SUPPORT AGENCY:

City of Elko Public Works

Provides support through weather observations from road crews

SUPPORT AGENCY:

City of Elko Fire Department


III. AUTHORITIES AND POLICIES

A. AUTHORITIES - information retrieved from NOAA Office of General Counsel (https://www.gc.noaa.gov/documents/authorities-gcw07.pdf)



United States Law

Organic Act of 1870 (15 U.S.C. § 313) National Climate Program Act of 1978 (15 U.S.C. § 2901 et seq) Space Weather Authority (15 U.S.C. § 1532) Flood Control/River Forecasting Authority (33 U.S.C. § 706) Meteorological Services to Support Aviation (FAA Authorities in 49 U.S.C) Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation Assistance; Disaster Warnings (42 U.S.C. §

5132) Emergency Preparedness; Federal Emergency Response Plans and Programs

(42 U.S.C. § 5196) Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017 (Pub. L. 115-25)

B. POLICIESNo additional policies apply.

IV. SITUATION

A. FUNCTIONAL – SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTA weather-related emergency, natural disaster or human-caused disaster can have a significant impact on first responder and attendant resources. These resources will, in most cases, be overwhelmed at the beginning. Hazardous weather can often act as a difficulty multiplier when an initial response is being devised and acted upon. Having knowledge of the weather during this critical first response phase can lead to more efficient use of, and deployment of, these strained assets with the goal being the safety of first responders and effective life-saving response.

B. CONTINGENCIESWhen a situation or event occurs where LKN cannot provide support or resources, LKN will coordinate with National Weather Service - Reno or National Weather Service - Western Region Headquarters to provide continuous support to LKN’s partners and customers.

V. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS

A. GENERALLKN provides emails to Elko County during the winter months for snow, as well as a bi-weekly email on flooding for the Humboldt River and small rivers/creeks. Both serve to act as a heads up to the potential for hazardous weather. When a disaster or an emergency occurs, LKN will respond at one of the four readiness levels.

Level 1: Normal Operations - At this level, LKN performs day-to-day functions at its office in Elko, NV. Participation within the CEOC is not necessary. Weather elements that lead to this level are:

Wind gusts less than 45 mph or 39 knotsRainfall less than 0.5 inches in 6 hoursSnow amounts less than 2 inches (possible winter weather advisory)No mention of freezing rain or ice accumulation



No mention of fog/freezing fogCold temperatures equal or above -5FWind chill greater than -20F

Level 2: Increased Readiness - At this level, LKN continues to perform at its office, but may require the issuance of headline products to the public and emails to its partners. Weather thresholds that can lead to this level are (and corresponding headline product name):

Wind gusts of 45 - 57 mph or 39 - 49 knots (wind advisory) 6-hour rainfall between 0.5 and 0.99 inches (hazardous weather outlook and/or

hydrologic outlook) 6- hours snow amounts of 2 to 3.99 inches (winter weather advisory) Freezing rain or ice accumulation greater than 0.01 inches (freezing rain

advisory) Occurrence of fog with visibility of less than ¾ miles (dense fog advisory or

freezing fog advisory) Cold temperatures less than -10F (special weather statement) Wind chill less than -20F (wind chill advisory) Humboldt River gauges are or expected to reach flood stage Small creeks and streams reached or expected to reach minor flood stage

Level 3: High Readiness - At this level, LKN can provide to the CEOC on-site or phone support as required to fulfill mission requirements.

Wind gusts greater than 57 mph or 49 knots (high wind warning) 6-hour rainfall between 1.0 and 1.99 inches (hydrologic outlook and/or flood

advisory for overland flooding and/or flash flood watch) 6-hour snow amounts of 4 to 5.99 inches winter storm warning) Humboldt River gauges are or expected to reach moderate levels Small creeks and streams reached or expected to reach moderate or higher flood

stage

Level 4: Maximum Readiness - LKN will provide full support to the CEOC as needed to fulfill all requirements to saving lives and property.

6-hour rainfall greater than 2 inches (hydrologic outlook and/or flood advisory and/or flash flood watch and/or flood/flash flood warning)

Humboldt River gauges are or expected to reach major levels (Flood Warning) Small creeks and streams reached or expected to reach record levels Snow amounts greater than 6 inches (winter storm warning)

B. ACTIONS

Upon notification by the County Emergency Manager (or their designee), LKN will try to quickly provide staffing to the Elko County EOC (hereafter CEOC).



1. PREPAREDNESSLKN maintains its preparedness level through seasonal forecaster and equipment training, meetings with stakeholders, partners, and customers, and at least bi-monthly meetings with staff on specific topics of concern. In addition, LKN staff members participate in the County LEPC and any local exercises that are scheduled.

2. INITIAL RESPONSELKN can provide initial support remotely (usually via the phone) as the office is staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. LKN can provide CEOC with a meteorologist upon request after the initial response.

a. NOTIFICATIONThe primary contact will be the Meteorologist in Charge (hereafter MIC) or his designee (typically the senior meteorologist on duty at the office).

b. INFORMATION MANAGEMENTInformation, including any support, will be managed at the CEOC by the meteorologist staffed there. If additional support is necessary, reach-back capability will be available from the Weather Office in Elko.

3. CONTINUING RESPONSELKN will ensure staffing will remain available for continued operations at the CEOC for the duration of the event.

RECOVERY

If further assistance is required during the recovery phase of operations, LKN will provide personnel and/or additional help to CEOC.

VI. RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS

Resource requirements for functional assistance are listed in LKN’s Station Duty Manual (hereafter SDM).

A. RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS AT COUNTY EOCLKN will require desk space and landline phone/cell phone.

B. RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS AT ALTERNATE EOCLKN will require similar resources as at the County EOC.

C. RESOURCE REQUIREMENTS FOR FIELD PERSONNELIf LKN is required at an off-site, non-hardened facility, LKN will require similar resources as at the County EOC

VII. CONTINUITY OF OPERATIONS

A. PLANSInstructions for maintaining continuity of operations resides in the SDM.



B. PROCEDURESProcedures for supplying staff to the CEOC are located in LKN’s SDM.

1. RELOCATION FROM PRIMARY EOCLKN staff relocates to an alternate location following instruction from CEOC or its Incident Commander, as required.

2. DEPLOYMENT DIRECTLY TO ALTERNATE EOCIf requested to deploy directly to an alternate EOC, LKN staff proceed to the location in a similar fashion as if deployed to the Primary EOC.

a. DEPLOYMENT WHILE ON OR OFF DUTY HOURSDuring duty and off-duty hours, the EOC notifies the Meteorologist In charge of EOC activation of the EOC and where to report.

VIII. REFERENCES

Station Duty Manual. National Weather Service - Elko. May 2018


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