Preparing Before the Storm: Disaster Exercise Held at the St. Johns County EOC
As hurricane season approaches, I recently participated in a disaster response exercise at the St. Johns County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). The exercise simulated a Category 1 hurricane sitting just off our coast, with the EOC operating at a Level 2 activation.
Representatives from every Emergency Support Function (ESF) came together to practice how we would respond if this scenario became reality.
Each team was given different situations to work through, requiring us to make decisions independently while also coordinating with other ESF groups. It was a great opportunity to see how all the moving parts come together before a real disaster strikes.
We also tested software, communication systems, and other tools we rely on during emergencies to help identify and resolve any issues ahead of time.
I was joined by Volunteers Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) Executive Board members Dr. Brian Schoonover, Patty Isola, and Julie Wesling.together, we represented ESF-15, which serves as the link between emergency management and volunteer organizations and oversight is provided at the state level by Volunteer Florida.
Our role is to help coordinate volunteers, donated goods and services, and financial resources during disaster response and recovery. One of the biggest takeaways from the exercise was the importance of partnerships. No single organization can meet every need following a disaster.
Recovery depends on strong relationships, clear communication, and organizations working together toward a common goal. Exercises like this help build those connections and ensure we are ready to support our community when it matters most.
A big thank you to St. Johns County Emergency Management for organizing the exercise and helping keep our community prepared before the next storm arrives.
