We recently participated in the City of Portland’s federally-sponsored regional disaster exercises called PACE Setter.
This exercise was kind of like a big scavenger hunt, or an episode of LOST without the smoke monster. We had to locate the materials, assemble a transmitter, do an inventory of the emergency supplies, assemble a portable shelter, check in with the base station, (which happened to be a local fire house) and then wait for the disaster victims to arrive. But, since this was only a drill we didn’t really have any victims, we just had to contend with the driving rain and wind.
Aside from the elements, it went rather well. The big metal box that we found at both locations did have the needed materials. After following the directions we did set up the shelter rather quickly. The main sticking point was the operation of the radio, but we were able to make contact with both base stations on a limited basis.
These kind of drills are vital to prepare for an emergency. It helps to build confidence, so that you can instill confidence in others that show up at the shelter.
