Many people have asked for feedback and my perception of the current Pandemic associated with Covid-19. I enjoyed the re-connection and catching up since there wasn't much else going on, and it allowed me to realize my years of work after September 11, 2001, in advocating for self-reliance and social responsibility was not in vain.
After the attacks on September 11, 2001, I was tasked to work on several assessment teams within the State of Alaska. The purpose of these teams was to assess emergency management operations and measures to mitigate the results and effects of any crisis or emergency. I took my assignments seriously; to some, I went overboard. I interviewed front line managers of the World Health Organization, Interpol, NOVA, UNDAC, FEMA, and Disaster Preparedness experts with each branch of the United States Military, as well as human behavioral experts ranging from sociological aspects to behavioral analysis experts. The results of this research allowed for a holistic and detailed explanation and analysis to address many areas in Crisis Management Planning. For this blog, I am going to focus on the recent Pandemic and discuss critical factors in living in and minimizing times, such as our current situation. I want to stress that this article isn’t to ridicule or create conflict but inform and educate.
In dealing with any crisis, there are three fundamentals one must be well disciplined. The three basics are Mindset, Practice, and Preparedness.
Mindset: I could write an entire book on this fundamental. Mindset is the perspective to be able to step back and identify where the obvious risks are, while also being able to predict unexpected challenges based on situation and human responses.
Practice: During my time in the military and law enforcement, there was a common saying: “Train like you fight so that you fight like you train.” Training is conducted so many of the practices become second nature during a crisis allowing for increased awareness and evaluation of current events happening.
Preparedness: This is where theory, mindset, practice, planning, engagement and execution come together. Preparation is the “final exam” in a crisis.
Now that I have defined the fundamentals let us evaluate two scenarios we have seen or heard about during this Pandemic.
A family goes, and bulk buys toilet paper and food while wearing gloves, masks, and taking excessive universal precautions while in the store. They load the car up and then proceed to eat at the local buffet (before being shut down). While in their minds, they were preparing, they lacked proper mindset and practice to ensure a responsible and holistic approach in addressing the possible crisis looming.
A family accumulates additional provisions regularly and tries to keep 3 to 6 months provisions usually. If they gain knowledge of a possible foreseeable crisis, they begin communicating with others to ensure they well stocked on essentials. If not, they obtain the supplies needed to get through the expected period. They practice universal precautions at all times and remain abreast of current events. This scenario practices all three fundamentals.
As I stated earlier, there are many situations where crisis planning is necessary. For those of you not involved in emergency management, it is too much for one person to prepare without years of practice and experience accurately. For those of you living in natural disaster areas (earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes, etc.), It is best to work in teams. Each takes a crisis and research, practice, and assist with mindset development.
There is an accessory to the three fundamentals for crisis planning, and it is kindness. Kindness doesn't mean enabling, carrying, or giving access to reserves. It means merely showing compassion as you can and still provide for your family and loved ones. Part of the proper mindset is knowing just how much to give without jeopardizing your plan. That limit should be in your practice fundamental.
In closing, I wrote this blog to provide an introduction to many of the issues about dealing with crisis planning and management. This blog is also a test run as I have the opportunity to assist with a book regarding Crisis Management and Planning. This blog is a test to determine if there is enough interest in this subject matter.
Comments