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The Warning Annex describes how our government communicates with
the community during emergencies. Gallatin County 911 Communications
and Gallatin County Emergency Management are the primary agencies
responsible for this function.
This annex describes the 12 primary methods in which local officials
receive notification of incidents, both locally and nationally. 12 primary AL
methods of notifying the community are also addressed in this annex. Of
these 24 methods, guidelines are provided on their best practice uses as t`
well activation procedures.
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A variety of pre scripted messages for common events are contained to
ensure all the important components of a given event get distributed in
the shortest amount of time possible. Many of these resources are
available in the Gallatin County Document Center at an rod C�U
http://portal.readygallatin.com. t
We fully recognize that the way our communities communicate is
changing rapidly. At the time of the 2012 revision of this annex several
new tools were under development in Gallatin County and the United
States. These tools will be employed for warning activities once they are
available and included in the next revision of this annex.
Patrick Lonergan, Director
Gallatin County Emergency Management
°EG
• • • • •
APPROVAL & IMPLEMENTATION
ANNEX A: WARNING
This annex is hereby approved. This annex is effective immediately and
supersedes all previous editions.
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Date
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A2
RECORD OF CHANGES
ANNEX A: WARNING
Date of Date Entered Change Entered
Change
1 4/19/12 4/26/12 Added MSU Alert
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
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18
19
20
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. PRIMARY AGENCIES..................................................................A6
II. SUPPORTING AGENCIES............................................................A6
III. AUTHORITY............................................................................. A6
IV. PURPOSE................................................................................A7
V. EXPLANATION OF TERMS
A. Acronyms.........................................................................A7
B. Definitions........................................................................A8
VI. SITUATIONS & ASSUMPTIONS
A. Situation...........................................................................A8
B. Assumptions.....................................................................A9
VII. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
A. General........................................................................... A9
B. Receiving Warnings............................................................A10
C. Notification of Local Officials................................................A13
D. Dissemination of Warnings to the Public.................................A14
E. Warning Special Facilities & Populations...................................A17
F. Warnings to Other Governments &Agencies..............................A18
G. Phases of Management........................................................A18
VIII. ORGANIZATION & ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES
A. General........................................................................... A19
B. Assignment of Responsibilities............................................. A19
IX. COORDINATION
A. General........................................................................... A22
B. Line of Succession.............................................................A22
X. ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT
A. Agreement & Contracts.......................................................A22
B. Reports & Records.............................................................A22
C. Maintenance of Equipment.................................................. A23
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A4
XI. ANNEX DEVELOPMENT & MAITENANCE
A. Development.....................................................................A23
B. Maintenance......................................................................A23
ATTACHMENTS
A. Distribution List.................................................................
B. Emergency Notification Matrix............................................. A25
C. National Warning Messages................................................A26
D. Pre-Scripted Warning Messages..........................................A28
E. 211 Service Activation Procedures....................................... A37
F. 511 Service Activation Procedures....................................... A38
G. A Child is Missing (ACIM) Activation Procedures.....................A39
H. AMBER Alert Activation Procedures......................................A40
I. Emergency Alert System (EAS) Activation Procedures............. A41
J. Emergency Preparedness Notification System (EPNS) Activation
Procedures......................................................................A43
K. Gallatin County Information Line Activation Procedures............ A45
L. Gallatin County Information Website Activation Procedures....... A46
M. HARP Activation Procedures...............................................A47
N. Montana State University Alert........................................ A48
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A5
ANNEX A: WARNING
I
Gallatin County Emergency Management, Gallatin County 911 Communications
Broadcasters, EMS, Fire, Law Enforcement, Local Elected Officials, National
Weather Service
III. AUTHORITY
A. FEDERAL
Name Description Legal
FCC Rules & Regulations Emergency Alert System 47 USC 151, 154 (i)and
(o), 303 (r), 527 (g) and
606; 47 CFR Part 1
Robert T. Stafford Disaster& National Warning System 42 USC 5121 et seq.
Emergency Assistance Act
Federal Civil Defense Act of
1950
FEMA Manual National Warning System Manual FEMA Manual 1550.2
B. STATE
Name Description Legal
Montana Emergency Telephone 911 MCA 10-4
System
Montana Emergency Alert
System State Plan
C. LOCAL
Name Description Legal
Gallatin County 911 GCR 2007-067
Communications &Advisory
Board
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A6
The purpose of this annex is to outline the organization, operational concepts,
responsibilities, and procedures to disseminate timely and accurate warnings to
government officials and the public in the event of, during, and after an emergency
situation.
V. EXPLANATION OF TERMS
A. ACRONYMS
ADM Administrative Message
AHJ Authority Having Jurisdiction
CEM Civil Emergency Message
CJIN Criminal Justice Information Network
DHS Department of Homeland Security
EAS Emergency Alert System
ECC Emergency Communications Center
EMDO Emergency Management Duty Officer
EPNS Emergency Preparedness Notification System (a.k.a.
Reverse 911)
FCC Federal Communications Commission
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FAOC FEMA Alternative Operating Center
FOC FEMA Operating Center
FNARS FEMA National Radio System
GCCC Gallatin County Coordination Center (aka EOC)
GCEM Gallatin County Emergency Management
HSOC Homeland Security Operations Center
INWS Interactive National Weather Service
LWP Local Warning Point
LWS Local Warning System
NOAA National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration
NAWAS National Warning System
NWS National Weather Service
PEO Principal Executive Officer
PIO Public Information Officer
PNG Public Notification Guide
SECC State Emergency Coordination Center
SWP State Warning Point
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A7
B. DEFINITIONS
Administrative Message (ADM)
A message that will be sent to TV and radio stations but will NOT overide TV
and radio broadcasting and will NOT activate NOAA Weather Radio.
Civil Emergency Message (CEM)
A Civil Emergency Message is a message that provides critical and time-
sensitive information that the public can use to take appropriate protective
behavior in the event of an emergency. Designated officials should issue a CEM
when they believe there is a risk to life and property that warrants immediate
notification of the general public. A CEM will override all TV and radio
broadcasting and alert/activate NOAA weather radios.
Designated Officials
The following officials are the only "designated officials" who may approve
activation of the EAS under the Montana EAS State Plan:
a) State Disaster and Emergency Services Duty Officer
b) 911 Director
c) Emergency Management Duty Officer
d) National Weather Service (for weather-related events)
Local Warning Point (LWP)
A facility in a city, town, or community that receives warnings and activates the
public warning system in its jurisdictional area of responsibility.
State Warning Point (SWP)
Each state has a primary and alternate SWP. The primary SWP is staffed 24
hours a day and exercises operational control over NAWAS within the state. The
alternate SWP is generally located in the SECC.
A. SITUATION
1) Our county is exposed to many hazards; all of which have the potential for
disrupting the community, causing casualties, and damaging or destroying
public or private property.
2) Our county can expect to experience emergency situations that could threaten
public health and safety, both private and public property, and necessitate the
implementation of protective actions for the public at risk.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A8
3) Emergency situations can occur at any time. Therefore, equipment and
procedures to warn the public of impending emergency situations must be in
place and ready to use at any time.
4) Power outages may disrupt radio and television systems that carry warning
messages and provide public instructions.
B. ASSUMPTIONS
1) Timely warnings to the public of impending emergencies or those that have
occurred may save lives, decrease injuries, and reduce some types of property
damage.
2) Electronic news media is the primary source of emergency information for the
general public.
3) Some people directly threatened by a hazard may ignore, not hear, or not
understand warnings issued by government.
4) Provision must be made to provide warnings to special needs groups such as
the hearing-and sight-impaired, and the institutions that serve them (e.g.
nursing homes and correctional facilities).
5) Local radio and television stations will broadcast Emergency Alert System
(EAS) messages when requested by local government officials. To effectively
utilize EAS, local governments and broadcasters must coordinate the
procedures used to transmit warning messages and instructions from local
government to broadcasters.
6) The local National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather
Radio station will broadcast EAS weather watches and warnings issued by the
National Weather Service (NWS). Weather radios are activated when such
messages are broadcast.
7) The local telephone system will be intact to allow for the use of EPNS,ACIM,
etc.
CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS
A. GENERAL
1) The primary objective of the warning system is to notify key officials of
emergency situations in order to disseminate timely and accurate warnings and
instructions to the population at risk from the threat or occurrence of an
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A9
emergency situation. Rapid dissemination and delivery of warning information
and instructions may provide time for citizens to take action to protect
themselves and their property.
2) The focal point of the county's warning function is the Local Warning Point
(LWP), which operates around the clock. The LWP is operated by Gallatin
County 911 Communications and is located in the Emergency Communications
Center.
3) The LWP receives warning of actual or potential emergency situations from a
variety of sources, including federal and state agencies, local officials,
businesses, industry, the news media, and the general public. The systems by
which warnings may be received by the LWP are described below.
4) The LWP will verify warning information, where necessary, and disseminate
pertinent information to specific local officials and departments.
5) For certain types of time-sensitive warnings, the LWP may be authorized to
activate the local warning system and warn the public immediately. In other
situations, local officials must approve activation of the warning system and
determine appropriate instructions to accompany the warning before it is
disseminated to the public.
6) For other types of emergency situations, the Gallatin County Coordination
Center (GCCC) may be activated and assume responsibility for formulating
warning messages and public instructions, which may be disseminated through
the LWP or provided to the media for dissemination.
7) Once warnings are received and, where necessary, verified, warnings that
affect the local area and appropriate public instructions are disseminated by the
LWP. The specific systems used to disseminate warnings and provide
information to the public within the local area are described below.
B. RECEIVING WARNINGS
1) Warning of actual emergency situations or the threat of such situations may
be received from the following:
a) Business and Industry: Companies that suffer a major fire, explosion,
hazardous materials spill, or another emergency situation that may
pose a threat to public health and safety and/or public and other
private property have a general duty to notify local officials of such
occurrences. Such notifications are generally made through the 911
system. Companies reporting emergency situations that may pose a
risk to the public are expected to recommend to local government
appropriate actions to protect people and property.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A10
b) Citizen Warning: Citizens may also provide warning of emergency
situations, generally by calling 911. It is always advisable to confirm
information on emergency situations reported by citizens before
issuing public warnings.
c) Emergency Alert System (EAS): EAS is intended to provide a means
for government to provide emergency warning and instructions to the
public. See Section D. Dissemination of Warnings below and
Attachment I. for further information of EAS. This jurisdiction may
receive EAS messages that contain warning information broadcast by.
i. Federal authorities or agencies
ii. State government
iii. Other local governments
d) Civil emergency warnings issued through NAWAS may also be
disseminated through EAS received directly from NWS on Weather
Radio, on NAWAS, or on CJIN.
e) Federal, State or Local Agencies: Warning of specific types of
emergency situations may be received directly from specialized
government agencies, including river authorities, dam operators, the
US Coast Guard, military installations, airport authorities, or other
agencies which operate specialized facilities.
f) Local Officials: Government employees may provide warning of
emergency situations they have discovered or that have been
reported to their departments and been confirmed. Such situations
should be reported to the LWP through any available means of
communications.
g) Montana AMBER Alert Program: The Montana Department of
Justice's Missing Persons Clearinghouse administers the Montana
America's Missing Broadcast Emergency Response (AMBER) Alert
Program. AMBER Alert serves as an early, special-purpose warning
system available for use by law enforcement to alert the public when a
child has been kidnapped, and the police believe the child is in
danger. Individuals and broadcasters can register to receive AMBER
Alerts via email and text messages from the AMBER Alert Portal via
the CJIN terminal.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page All
I
h) Montana Warning System:
i. The Montana Warning System is a state level extension of
NAWAS. It consists of a dedicated telephone warning system
linking the State Warning Point at the State Emergency
Communications Center (SECC) with local agencies located in
safety offices around the state and with four National Weather
Service (NWS) offices in Montana.
ii. The State Warning Point relays national emergency warnings
received on NAWAS to the LWP using the Montana Warning
System. Warnings may be disseminated by telephone or radio
to those agencies in the Gallatin County fan out.
i) National Warning Systems: The National Warning System (NAWAS),
a 24-hour, nationwide, dedicated, multiple-line, terrestrial warning
system linking federal agencies and the states, is used to disseminate
civil emergency warnings. NAWAS is a voice communications system
operated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and is controlled
from the FEMA Operations Center (FOC) in Washington, D.C. and the
FEMA Alternate Operations Center (FAOC) in Olney, Maryland.
NAWAS is used to disseminate three types of civil emergency
warnings to state and local governments:
i. Attack warnings.
ii. Fallout warnings.
iii. Natural and technological emergency warnings.
j) Warnings from the FOC or FAOC are coordinated with the Homeland
Security Operations Center (HSOC) and relayed through the FEMA
Regional Communications Center in Lakewood (Denver), CO to the
State Warning Point at the Montana Highway Patrol Dispatch in
Helena. The State Warning Point further disseminates the civil
emergency warnings throughout Montana.
k) Specific formats and handling instructions have been established for
certain national civil emergency messages disseminated by NAWAS.
Attachment C provides guidance on handling national warning
messages.
I) As NAWAS is a "voice only" system that is not particularly suited for
disseminating lengthy messages, this system is generally not used for
warning on a daily basis.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page Al2
m) National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Products: Weather
warning messages are issued by NWS Weather Forecast Offices and
various NWS specialized weather centers, such as the River Forecast
Center in Kansas City, MO. NWS disseminates weather forecasts,
watches, and warnings via the NOAA Weather Wire, CJIN, INWS and
NWR. Among the weather messages that are provided are:
i. Flood and flash flood watches and warnings.
ii. Severe weather watches and warnings.
iii. Tornado watches and warnings.
n) Many local radio and television stations subscribe to the NOAA
Weather Radio and have installed terminals to receive weather
products directly from NWS, such as:
o) Emergency Managers Wireless Information Network (EMWIN):
EMWIN provides weather information broadcast via satellite.
p) NOAA Weather Radio: The County also receives NWS weather
warnings disseminated by NOAA Weather Radio on tone-alert radios
located in most government facilities.
q) State Government: The State Emergency Coordination Center
(SECC) may occasionally issue warning messages to local
governments in specific regions of the state. For example, an
advisory may be issued to jurisdictions along major evacuation routes
when large-scale evacuations begin in rural areas due to a wildfire.
Warnings issued by the SECC are typically transmitted by CJIN,
NAWAS and by telephone to the Local Warning Point.
C. NOTIFICATION OF LOCAL OFFICIALS
When the Emergency Management Duty Officer receives warning of an emergency
situation, s/he shall notify key local officials so they can determine appropriate
actions to deal with the situation. The Emergency Notification Matrix, provided in
Attachment B, indicates which departments and officials should be notified of
various types of emergency situations. Notification will be made by telephone,
radio, pager, or any other means available.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A13
D. DISSEMINATION OF WARNINGS TO THE PUBLIC
1) In the initial stages of an emergency situation, the AHJ will, within the limits of
the authority delegated to it, determine if a warning needs to be issued and
formulate a warning (using a pre-scripted message where possible included in
Attachment D), and disseminate it thru the LWP or EMDO. When the GCCC
has been activated, it will normally determine, with feedback from the Incident
Commander, who needs to be warned and how. The GCCC will normally
formulate the warning messages and public instructions. The LWP or the
GCCC will execute the warnings by activating the warning system. The Public
Information Officer (PIO) or the GCCC may disseminate emergency public
information directly to the media.
2) The systems described below will be used to issue warnings and instructions to
the public. To facilitate dissemination of warning and public instructions, a set
of pre-scripted warning messages and public information messages suitable for
use in likely emergency situations has been developed. They are included in
Attachment D to this annex These pre-scripted messages may be used as
written or tailored as needed for specific circumstances.
a. 211 Service: 211 Service is operated by the Bozeman Help Center and
is staffed 24/7. It provides access to social services for people who call
211. The intent of 211 is not to be a primary emergency information
source, but they are more than willing to provide current information to
their callers when they are provided the information by an official source.
See Attachment E further information and activation procedures.
b. 511: The Montana Department of Transportation operates a traveler
advisory system accessible by calling 511. This system can be used to
advise motorists on state highways of travel impacts or other pertinent
information. See Attachment F for further information and activation
procedures.
c. A Child is Missing (ACIM): ACIM is a non-profit organization providing
automated calling at no cost for missing child incidents. When
requested by the Law Enforcement Agency Having Jurisdiction, ACIM
(www.achild ism issing.org) will create a recorded message for phone
dissemination in the community where the child went missing. ACIM
utilizes the Code RED automated calling system
(www.coderedweb.com) to initially distribute the recorded message to
phones within a one-mile radius of the point last seen at a rate of 1000
calls per minute. See Attachment G for further information and activation
procedures.
d. AMBERAIert: The Montana Department of Justice's Missing Persons
Clearinghouse administers the Montana America's Missing Broadcast
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A14
Emergency Response (AMBER)Alert Program. AMBER Alert serves as
an early, special-purpose, warning system available for use by law
enforcement to alert the public when a child has been kidnapped, and
the police believe the child is in danger. Individuals and broadcasters
can register to receive AMBER Alerts from the AMBER Alert Portal via
email and text message. See Attachment H for further information and
activation procedures.
e. Emergency Alert System (EAS): As a condition of licensing, all
commercial radio and television stations and cable television companies
must participate in EAS and use their facilities to relay warning and
instructions from government to the public. Broadcasters and cable
companies must carry national security warnings and messages initiated
by the President; they may broadcast alerts and messages initiated by
state and local governments. The FCC encourages licensees to
broadcast state and local warning and instruction messages, but the
final decision on broadcasting such messages rests with the
broadcaster.
i. The Montana Broadcasters Association coordinates the Montana
EAS. Activation of the EAS for Gallatin County is facilitated
through the National Weather Service (NWS) of Great Falls. The
actual message is then transmitted over the NWS Weather Radio
System to local broadcasters, which then relay it to other
broadcasters in a daisy chain manner.
ii. For obvious reasons, EAS should be used prudently. The
Montana EAS State Plan governs the activation of EAS by local
governments. The general guidelines for local activation of EAS
include:
a) Severity of Situation - EAS warning will aid in reducing
loss of life or substantial loss of property.
b) Timeliness - Immediate public knowledge is required to
avoid adverse impact.
c) Alternatives - Other means of disseminating information
are inadequate to ensure rapid delivery.
iii. The LWP has two options for EAS messages:
a) An Administrative Message (ADM) is a message that will
be sent to TV and radio stations but will NOT override
TV and radio broadcasting and will NOT activate NOAA
weather radios.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A15
I
b) Designated Officials should issue a Civil Emergency
Message (CEM) when they believe there is a risk to life
and property that warrants immediate notification of the
general public. A CEM will override all TV and radio
broadcasting and alert/activate NOAA weather radios.
iv. The local EAS stations are listed in Attachment I. The county
has coordinated with these stations to establish procedures for
accessing the EAS through the local primary stations. Authority
to release EAS messages for broadcast is restricted to those
local officials named in Attachment I. The following methods will
be used to transmit emergency messages to local primary
stations for broadcast:
a) By telephone, with the station generally recording our
verbal message and then broadcasting it.
b) By fax, with the station receiving our written message
and reading it on the air.
V. Pre-scripted emergency messages have been prepared for use
with those warning systems that are capable of delivering a
verbal or written message. As EAS messages are limited to two
minutes, the pre-scripted messages include short warning and
instructional messages that may be transmitted by EAS and
amplifying messages that will be distributed to the media as
Special News Advisories.
vi. See Attachment I for further information.
f. Emergency Preparedness Notification System (EPNS): EPNS (aka
Reverse 911 TM is*erated Intrado and i s activated via a web
interface (ww or by calling Intrado's Emergency Call
Relay Center EPNS then calls the phone lines
identified in the that are within the specified geographic
area. EPNS is also capable of utilizing pre-loaded calling lists (i.e.
media, school parents, etc...). EPNS has a total maximum capacity of
1,100 outbound calling ports. See Attachment J for further information
and activation procedures.
g. Gallatin County Information Line: The Gallatin County Information
Line, (406) 582-3175, is a recorded message system that can accept
46 simultaneous callers. It is available to government agencies for
providing updated information to the public during an incident. See
Attachment K for further information and activation procedures.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A16
h. Gallatin County Media Center Website: Gallatin County Emergency
Management maintains an incident website, www.gallatinmedia.org, in
which incident information can be posted for the public. The site is
configured to provide creation of an incident, along with unlimited
incident updates. This is achieved through a web-based interface that
does not require programming skills. See Attachment L for further
information and activation procedures.
i. Highway Advisory Radio Portables (HARP): Gallatin County
Emergency Management operates three Highway Advisory Radio
Portables (HARP). These units are trailer mounted AM radios that
broadcast on either 1600 or 1700 kHz with a maximum range of 3-5
miles. The HARPs are solar powered with battery backup. Each unit
can be updated remotely by telephone. See Attachment M for further
information and activation procedures.
j. NOAA Weather Radio: Please see Attachment I for further information
on EAS.
k. Route Alerting & Door- to-Door Warning: The public may be warned by
route alerting using vehicles equipped with sirens and public address
systems. Route alerting may not work well in some areas, including
rural areas where residences are some distance from the road or for
large buildings with few external windows. Response personnel going
door-to-door may also deliver warnings. Both of these methods are
effective in delivering warnings, but they are labor-intensive and time-
consuming and may be infeasible for large areas.
1. MSU Alert: Montana State University offers a text and email alerting
system powered by Inspiron Logistics. Individuals can subscribe
themselves to receive notifications concerning MSU. See Attachment N
for further information.
E. WARNING SPECIAL FACILITIES & POPULATIONS
1) Special populations and facilities will be warned of emergency situations by
available methods. These include:
a) Hearing-impaired: Captioned EAS messages on television, NWR and
EPNS.
b) Special Facilities: EAS messages on radio/television, NOAA Weather
Radio and EPNS.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A17
I
c) Visually Impaired: EAS messages on radio, NOAA Weather Radio
and EPNS.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A18
F. WARNINGS TO OTHER GOVERNMENTS & AGENCIES
The EMDO is responsible for warning adjacent or nearby jurisdictions that may be
affected by emergency situations originating within this jurisdiction.
G. PHASES OF MANAGEMENT
1) Mitigation
a) Establish an effective public warning system and appropriate operating
procedures.
b) Extend the system to keep up with growth.
c) Adopt new methods of warning that increase the ability to reach citizens
not well served by current systems.
d) Conduct public education designed to prevent citizens from taking
unnecessary risks during an emergency situation. An example may be
implementing a public information effort to discourage people from
driving on flooded roads.
2) Preparedness
a) Test the Local Warning System on a regular basis.
b) Prepare pre-scripted warning and public instruction messages for known
hazards. See Attachment D.
c) Brief local media on local warning systems and coordinate procedures
for transmitting EAS messages to radio and television stations and cable
television providers.
d) Conduct public education on warning systems and the actions that
should be taken for various types of warnings.
e) Establish a Joint Information System (JIS) and identify suitable facilities
for a Joint Information Center (JIC), if required.
3) Response
a) Activate Local Warning System to alert the public of the emergency
situation and provide appropriate instructions.
b) Conduct media monitoring to determine the need to clarify issues and
distribute updated public instructions.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A19
c) Discontinue warnings when no longer required.
4) Recovery
a) Advise the public when the emergency situation has been terminated.
b) If necessary, provide instructions for return of evacuees and safety
information relating to the reoccupation of damaged homes and
businesses.
ORGANIZATION ; ASSIGNMENT 01,
RESPONSIBILITIES
A. GENERAL
1) Gallatin County and the incorporated cities establish general policies for
emergency warning and fund personnel and equipment to operate the warning
system.
2) The 911 Director is responsible for operating the LWP and coordinating
operation of the Local Warning System.
B. ASSIGNMENT OF RESPONSIBILITIES
1) The Principal Executive Officer (PEO) will:
a) Outline general policies on warning and emergency public information.
b) Approve emergency public information to be released to the public
through the news media or other mean.
2) The 911 Director will:
a) Develop an adequate warning system.
b) Staff and operate the Local Warning Point.
c) In coordination with the GCEM, develop and maintain procedures for
operation of the warning system, coordinating as necessary with other
departments and agencies, the NWS, local radio and television stations,
cable television companies, and other organizations.
d) Provide for maintenance and periodic testing of the warning system
equipment.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A20
3) The Gallatin County Emergency Communication Center will serve as the LWP
and will:
a) Receive and, if necessary, verify and acknowledge warnings of
emergency situations.
b) Make notification to local officials of emergency situations or of
conditions that could cause such situations, as required.
c) In accordance with SOP, or when directed, activate the warning system
to alert and provide instructions to all sirens under their jurisdiction.
d) Develop and maintain hazard specific warning procedures covering
warning receipt, verification, and dissemination.
e) Perform fan out for NAWAS calls.
f) Perform fan out for EAP activations.
4) The GCCC will:
a) In coordination with the Public Safety Agency, develop operating
procedures for the warning system, coordinating as necessary with
other departments and agencies, the NWS, local radio and television
stations, cable television companies, and other organizations.
b) Assist in the development of pre-scripted warning messages and
Special News Advisories. See Attachment D.
c) When the GCCC is activated, assist in the development of warning
messages and Special News Advisories.
d) In coordination with the PIO, educate the public regarding the use of the
warning system.
5) The PIO will:
a) Incoordination with the Public Safety Agency, develop pre-scripted
warning messages and public instructions for known hazards.
b) When an emergency has occurred, develop warning messages and
public instructions for the specific situation at hand.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A21
I
c) Develop procedures to facilitate the release of coordinated emergency
public information to amplify basic information provided in warning
messages.
d) Maintain a media briefing area.
e) Periodically brief the media on local warning systems and warning
procedures.
f) Develop and disseminate educational materials relating to emergency
warning to the public.
6) Law Enforcement will:
a) Provide units and personnel for route alerting and door-to-door warning
when needed.
7) Fire Protection Agencies will:
a) Provide units and personnel for route alerting and door-to-door warning
when needed.
8) All local government departments and agencies will:
a) Report emergency situations to the Local Warning Point that merit
warning local officials or the public.
b) When requested, provide personnel and equipment to assist in route
alerting or door-to-door warning
9) Media companies are asked to:
a) Disseminate warning messages and Special News Advisories provided
by local government to the public as rapidly as possible.
b) Participate in periodic tests of the EAS and other warning systems.
10) Institutions, businesses, and places of public assembly are expected to:
a) Monitor radio and television and/or NOAA Weather Radio receivers for
warnings and take appropriate actions to protect their patients, students,
customers, and employees.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A22
I
A. GENERAL
1) The PEO shall provide general guidance for warning activities.
2) The 911 Director shall provide specific guidance for the operation of the LWP
and warning systems.
3) For specific, time-sensitive, emergency situations, the LWP has been delegated
authority to determine if a warning needs to be issued, formulate a warning if
necessary (using pre-scripted messages where possible), and disseminate it.
For other situations, the LWP must coordinate with one of a designated set of
key officials, who will determine if a warning should be issued and approve the
general content of any warning message that will be disseminated.
4) When the GCCC has been activated, the GCCC staff will normally determine
who needs to be warned and how. The EMDO, P10, and other members of the
staff will formulate warning messages and public instructions. The LWP will
normally execute such warnings by activating the warning system. Although,
the P10 may disseminate emergency public information to the media directly.
B. LINE OF SUCCESSION
The line of succession for the 911 Director, who has primary responsibility for the
warning function, is the CAD Administrator.
X. - . - '
A. AGREEMENTS & CONTRACTS
Should local 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 and contracts.
B. REPORTS & RECORDS
The LWP shall maintain activity logs recording:
a) Warnings received.
b) Key personnel notified, and the actions they directed to be taken.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A23
c) Warnings disseminated to the public and the means of that
dissemination.
C. MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT
All warning systems owned by Gallatin County will be maintained in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions for those systems.
11:1111111i q AN Wft
A. DEVELOPMENT
The GCEM is responsible for working with other agencies in the development,
maintenance, and improvement of this annex. Each agency tasked will develop
SOP that address assigned tasks.
B. MAINTENANCE
This annex will be reviewed annually and updated in accordance with the schedule
outlined in the Emergency Management Plan.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A24
ATTACHMENT B
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION MATRIX
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LL U N N N LL
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U Q ~ Q
City/County X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Administrator
VOAD X X X X
PEO X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
County/City X X X X
Attorney's Office
Emergency X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Management
911 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Auditor V X X
Fire Service X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Public Heal h X X X X X X
Medical Services X X X X X X X
Human Resources X X X
Finance Departmen X X X
Law Enforcement X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Public Works X X X X X X X X X X X X
Engineering& X X X X X
Planning
Search&Rescue X X X X
Utilities X X X X X X X X
Information X X X X X
Technologies
Weather Service X X
** This is a guide for notification. Actual notification will be determined by
location and scale of the actual event.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A25
ATTACHMENT C
NATIONAL WARNING MESSAGES
1) The State Warning Point will ring all stations on the Montana Warning
System.
2) Following the ring down, the originating warning point will identify
themselves, such as "Montana Warning Point."
3) This will be followed by which warning points the message applies to and
instructions to standby for the message. This could be all warning points or
specific affected warning points.
4) The message will then be disseminated by the originating warning point.
5) The calling warning point will then conduct a roll call to confirm receipt of the
message. This will consist of, "Bozeman Sheriff, this is Montana Warning
Point, did you receive the message?"
6) The Gallatin Warning Point should acknowledge the message, and
preferably, summarize the message back to confirm proper understanding of
the intended message. This could consist of, "Montana Warning Point, this is
Bozeman Sheriff, we copied that a railroad derailment with hazmat has
occurred next to the Toston Dam. We will relay to Broadwater County."
7) The originating warning point should acknowledge and confirm the accuracy
of your read back, then move on to the next warning point.
8) The Gallatin Warning Point should carry out the appropriate fan out
procedures for the message. Gallatin County is responsible for relaying
NAWAS messages to Madison, Jefferson and Broadwater Counties.
Gallatin County National Warning System Fanout
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Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A26
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ATTACHMENT D
PRE-SCRIPTED WARNING MESSAGES
A. GENERAL INCIDENT
1) The [City of/Gallatin County] has issued the following warning for those who live, work, or
are visiting in the area of[specify affected area].
2) An emergency situation involving [affected jurisdiction] is currently in progress at[specify
location using common place name, streets, or other geographic references. Should be
recognizable to the general public.]
3) A[specify type of incident] has occurred in this area. The incident is currently [give some
brief detail of incident. Size, direction of travel, hazards, etc...].
4) The public is asked to [provide instructions on what people are to do].
5) Please do not call 911 for information about this incident. Instead you may obtain
information from [specify activated tools]:
❑ local media outlets (radio, television, newspaper, online)
❑ 582-3175 Information Line
❑ readygallatin.com website
❑ 1600 am HARP
❑ 1700 am HARP
❑ 211 service
❑ 511 service
❑ Coordination Center Public Inquiry Phones (548-0123)
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A28
B. ROAD/FACILITY CLOSURE
IF-
1. The [City of/Gallatin County] has issued the following warning for those who live, work, or
are visiting [specify affected area].
2. It has been necessary to close [streets, facilities, etc...] due to:
❑ Flooding
❑ Snow
❑ Ice
❑ Fire
❑ Explosion
❑ Hazardous Materials Incident
❑ Law Enforcement Incident
El
3. As of[ ], the following [roads or facilities] have been closed by officials:
4. Please avoid these [roads or facilities].
5. If you must travel, use alternate routes, such as:
6. We recommend that you refrain from driving and remain at home due to the travel
conditions.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A29
7. Please do not call 911 for information about this incident. Instead you may obtain
information from [specify activated tools]:
❑ local media outlets (radio, television, newspaper, online)
❑ 582-3175 Information Line
❑ readygallatin.com website
❑ 1600 am HARP
❑ 1700 am HARP
❑ 211 service
❑ 511 service
❑ Coordination Center Public Inquiry Phones (548-0123)
El
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A30
C. SHELTER IN PLACE
1) The [City of/Gallatin County] has issued the following warning for those who live, work, or
are visiting [specify affected area].
2) There has been a release of a hazardous material [specify if known] that is affecting a
portion of the local area. People in the following area must take protective measures:
3) If you are located in this area, do the following immediately in order to protect yourself:
a) Go inside your home, workplace, or the nearest building that appears to be
reasonably air tight and stay there. Take your pets with you.
b) Close all doors, windows, and any fireplace dampers.
c) Turn off any heating or cooling systems that draw air from outside.
d) Keep your radio on and turned to receive emergency announcements and
instructions.
e) Gather items that you may need to take with you if you are advised to evacuate.
4) People traveling in vehicles should seek shelter in the nearest air tight structure. If a suitable
structure is not immediately available, travelers should roll up car windows, close air vents,
and turn off the heater or air conditioner until they reach a suitable building.
5) If shelter is not immediately available, keep a handkerchief, towel, or damp cloth snugly over
your nose and mouth until you get indoors.
6) (If school is in session):
a) ❑ Students in the following school(s) are taking shelter at their school(s):
b) Parents should not attempt to pick up students at school until the hazardous
situation is resolved and they are advised it is safe to do so.
c) ❑ Students at the following school(s) [have been/are being] evacuated to other
facilities:
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A31
d) Parents should not attempt to pick up students from schools that have been
evacuated. Local officials will provide information on where to pick up children as
soon as it is available.
7) Please do not call 911 for information about this incident. Instead you may obtain
information from [specify activated tools]:
❑ local media outlets (radio, television, newspaper, online)
❑ 582-3175 Information Line
❑ readygallatin.com website
❑ 1600 am HARP
❑ 1700 am HARP
❑ 211 service
❑ 511 service
❑ Coordination Center Public Inquiry Phones (548-0123)
El
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A32
D. PRE-EVACUATION
1) The [City of/Gallatin County] has issued the following warning for those who live, work, or
are visiting [specify affected area].
2) Due to a threat of[specify], it may become necessary for people who live, work or are
visiting in certain areas to evacuate in the near future. The area(s)that may be at risk
include:
3) Evacuation orders are NOT being issued at this time. Local officials will advise you if
evacuation is necessary. However, you should be prepared to evacuate if needed. To
prepare, you should:
a) Assemble the following emergency supplies:
i. Clothing for your family for several days
ii. Bedding, pillows, and towels
iii. Prescription medicines & spare glasses
iv. Soap and toiletries
V. Baby food and diapers
vi. Your address book or list of important phone numbers
vii. Your driver's license and identification cards
viii. A portable radio and flashlight
ix. Supplies for your pets
b) You should also:
i. Gather suitcases, boxes, or bags to hold your emergency supplies
ii. Be prepared to secure your home or office and your property before you
depart
iii. Ensure your car is in good shape and you have adequate fuel
iv. Decide where you will go if you have to evacuate. Make arrangements with
relatives or friends or consider making hotel reservations. Make sure any
pets can go with you.
1) ❑ Potential evacuation routes from the area(s)at risk include:
2) If you know of any neighbors that could use assistance, please assist them.
3) We want to emphasize that this is a precautionary message about possible evacuation.
Evacuation orders are NOT being issued at this time.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A33
4) Please do not call 911 for information about this incident. Instead you may obtain
information from [specify activated tools]:
❑ local media outlets (radio, television, newspaper, online)
❑ 582-3175 Information Line
❑ readygallatin.com website
❑ 1600 am HARP
❑ 1700 am HARP
❑ 211 service
❑ 511 service
❑ Coordination Center Public Inquiry Phones (548-0123)
El
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A34
E. EVACUATION
1) The [City of/Gallatin County] has issued the following warning for those who live, work, or
are visiting [specify affected area].
2) Due to [specify] an evacuation order has been issued. People in the following area should
evacuate immediately to protect their health and safety. These areas are:
3) Recommended evacuation routes from these area(s) are:
4) ❑ Emergency shelters are available at:
5) Be sure to take essential items such as:
a. Prescription medicines
b. Eyeglasses
c. Identification cards
d. Checkbooks
e. Credit cards
f. Valuable papers
5) Do not delay your departure to collect other belongings.
6) Take your pets with you, but make sure you bring a leash, crate, or cage for them. Most
shelters will not accept pets.
7) If you need assistance evacuating, ask a neighbor to assist you.
8) If you know of a neighbor that could use assistance evacuating, please help them.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A35
9) Please do not call 911 for information about this incident. Instead you may obtain
information from [specify activated tools]:
❑ local media outlets (radio, television, newspaper, online)
❑ 582-3175 Information Line
❑ readygallatin.com website
❑ 1600 am HARP
❑ 1700 am HARP
❑ 211 service
❑ 511 service
❑ Coordination Center Public Inquiry Phones (548-0123)
El
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A36
ATTACHMENT E
211 SERVICE ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
211 Service is operated by the Bozeman Help
Center and is staffed 24/7. It provides access to --
social services for people who call 211. The intent � ' ' a
a iUt ti i Air
of 211 is not to be a primary emergency information
source, but they are more than willing to provide ,
current information to their callers when they are
provided the information by an official source.
y
Activation Criteria
211 can be utilized by any official agency
Authorization
Any agency can utilize 211 directly. If 211 receives conflicting information from
multiple sources, and cannot resolve it, they will contact the Emergency
Management Duty Officer to put them in touch with the Information Officer for the
Agency Having Jurisdiction.
Activation Procedure
The A enc Having Jurisdiction, or their delegate, may contact 211 directly at
4060=
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A37
ATTACHMENT F
511 SERVICE ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
Montana Department of Transportation operates a
traveler advisory system accessible by calling 511 .
This system could be utilized to advise motorists on
state highways of travel impacts, or other pertinent
information.
Activation Criteria
511 can be requested by any government agency.
Authorization
Utilization of the 511 system for emergency information should be approved by
the Bozeman Area Maintenance Chief or his delegate.
Activation Procedure
The
ig Acy Having Jurisdiction may contact the Bozeman MDT Office at 406-
1) Ross Gammon, Maintenance Chief 4060=
2) Mark Petersen, Maintenance Superintendent 406MM
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A38
ATTACHMENT G
A CHILD IS MISSING (ACIM) ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
A Child is Missing (ACIM) is a Non-Profit
organization providing automated calling as no cost r-4L
for missing child incidents. When requested by the ` " . " `
law enforcement a enc havin 'urisdiction, A Child
is Missing ww. will create a w .,� ^T
g ( e ;.�_4.._ WE
recorded message or p one issemination in the
community where the child went missin*. A Child is Missing utilizes CodeRED's (www.automated calling system to initially Is e recorded message to phones
within a 1 mile radius of the point last seen at a rate of 1000 calls per minute.
Activation Criteria
ACIM will request the following information when contacted by law enforcement
1) Name of law enforcement agency
2) City, County, and State of Agency
3) Name of Missing Person
4) Date of Birth
5) Gender
6) Nationality
7) Height and Weight
8) Hair and Eye Color
9) Clothing Description
10) Scars or other physical characteristics
11) Medical/ psychological conditions to be aware of
12) Home Address
13) Location Last Seen
14) Phone number for public to call
15) Incident or case number assigned
16) Is there water or wooded areas near by
17) Have friends and family been contacted
18) Has the person gone missing before
19) Is there foul play, kidnapping, or parental abduction suspected
20) Are there any sexual predators in the area
21) What is the contact information for the law enforcement agency having
jurisdiction's ACIM point of contact
Authorization
The law enforcement agency having jurisdiction must approve the request per
their policies.
Activation Procedure
The law enforcement agency having jurisdiction must contact ACIM at■m
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A39
ATTACHMENT H
AMBER ALERT ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
The Montana America's Missing: Broadcast
Emergency Response (AMBER) Alert Program is
administered through the Montana Department of "'°' `f `°"' FL,
Justice's Missing Persons Clearinghouse. AMBER
Alert provides law enforcement a method of rapid
dissemination of information during child abductions.
AMBER Alerts are initiated through the AMBER Alert '~
Portal (www.montanaamberalert.com), which is a
consortium project among several states. Individuals and broadcasters can
register to receive AMBER Alerts directly from the AMBER Alert Portal via email
and text messaging.
Activation Criteria
In order for an AMBER Alert to be to be initiated the following criteria must be
met:
1) The child must be 17 years old, or younger, or have a proven mental or
physical disability.
2) The child must be in imminent danger of serious injury of death
3) There must be enough descriptive information available to believe that
broadcasting it will assist law enforcement in recovering the child.
4) The alert must be recommended by the local law enforcement agency of
jurisdiction.
Authorization
In order to be issued, an AMBER Alert must be authorized per the law
enforcement agency having jurisdiction's policies and then approved by the
Montana Department of Justice.
Activation Procedure
1) AMBER Alert must be requested and approved by the Law Enforcement
Agency Having Jurisdiction.
2) The AMBER Alert request, with as much detail as possible, must be
submitted to the Montana Department of Justice. This can be achieved in two
ways:
a. Through Gallatin County Dispatch (406 using the Montana
Criminal Justice Information Network (C
b. B telephone to Montana Department of Justice (DOJ) at 800M
iW
3) Once approved by Montana DOJ, DOJ will issue the AMBER Alert through
the AMBER Alert Portal (www.montanaamberalert.com).
4) Once entered into the AMBER Alert Portal the message is automatically
relayed to broadcasters and AMBER Alert Subscribers.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A40
ATTACHMENT I
EMERGENCY ALERT SYSTEM (EAS)
ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
The Montana Emergency Alert System (EAS) is coordinated by the Montana
Broadcasters Association. Activations of the EAS is facilitated through the
National Weather Service (NWS) Great Falls Office (406 The actual
message is then transmitted over the NWS Weather Radlo lyvs em o local
broadcasters, who then relay it to other broadcasters iN a daisy chain manner.
Activation Criteria
1) Must have an identified risk to life and/ or property
2) Must be classified as one of two message categories
3) Civil Emergency Message (CEM) — Messages that provide critical and time-
sensitive information that the public can use to take appropriate protective
behavior in the event of a Civil Emergency.
4) Administrative Message (ADM) — Messages that will be sent to TV and Radio
Stations, but will NOT override TV and Radio broadcasting and will NOT
activate NOAA weather Radios.
5) Identify a source of additional information
Authorization
Activation of the Emergency Alert System requires approval by one of the
approved Designated Officials per the Montana Emergency Alert System Plan.
These individuals are:
1) State Disaster and Emergency Services Duty Officer
2) County DES Coordinator
3) County 911 Director
4) National Weather Service (weather related events)
Activation Procedure
1) Incident Commander requests activation of the EAS based on meeting he
criteria and requests activation through Gallatin County Dispatch (406=
2) a atln County Dispatch will contact one of the Designated Officials with the
request.
3) The contacted Designated official will contact the Incident Commander and
confirm the message to be transmitted.
4) The Designated Official will then complete the EAS Activation Form and send
it to the Great Falls Weather Service Office (406== fax wed by a
phone call to the Great Falls Weather Service O Ice 5) The EAS Activation Form should also be sent to Gallatin oun atch, or
to Emergency Management, depending on where it originates. By protocol,
the NWS will call a Designated Official from the requesting county to confirm
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A41
the authenticity of the message. By making sure everyone is on the same
page it will minimize any delay.
6) After confirmation, the NWS will then broadcast the EAS Message.
ANNEX E: EAS Activation Form for a Civil Emergency Message (CEM)
This message will override TV and Radio Station Broadcasting. Keep
message to no more than 2 minutes of airtime.
Date\Time
Person Making
Request
Agency of Person Making
Request
Specific Type of Emergency (HazMat, etc)
Affected Counties
Specific Affected Area(if available)
Duration of
Emergency
Phone Number to Verify or Contact for More
Information
Name of Person Completing This
Form
Further Instructions or Exact Message for
broadcast
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A42
ATTACHMENT J
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM (EPNS)
ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
The Emergency Preparedness Notification System _ -
(aka Reverse 911 TM) is operated by Intrado. The
Emergency Preparedness Notification System
(EPNS is a*ae ia a web interface
(www or by calling Intrado's --a
Emergency y Center (80 0
EPNS then calls the phone lines wi in Weargeted
--
area identified in the 911 Database. EPNS is also
capable of utilizing pre-loaded calling lists (i.e. media, school parents, etc...).
EPNS has a total maximum capacity of 1 ,100 outbound calling ports.
Activation Criteria
In order for the EPNS to be activated, the following considerations should be
addressed:
1) Defined message delivery area
a. Radius of given location
b. Polygon
c. Pre-loaded GIS Shape File
d. Pre-defined Call List
2) Cost vs. Benefit
a. $0.46 per minute for completed calls in 30 second increments
3) Message to be delivered
4) Follow up information source
Authorization
Use of the EPNS must be requested by a command staff member of the agency
having jurisdiction. After the request has been made by the agency having
jurisdiction, the 911 Director must authorize the expenditure of funds for
deployment of EPNS. The Gallatin County 911 Director has issued standing
orders authorizing Command Staff of local public safety agencies to activate the
EPNS.
If a member of the public has a legitimate need and would like to test the system,
they will need to contact the law enforcement agency in whose jurisdiction they
reside, or the Fire District in whose district they reside and make the request
directly. If the request is deemed appropriate by the jurisdiction involved, then
the request to activate can take place as further described.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A43
Further, to insure operational reliability of the system, routine testing will take
place quarterly, and be administered under the direction of the CAD
Administrator.
Activation Procedure
1) Agency having jurisdiction makes a*eNS st for activation of the EPNS to
Gallatin County Dispatch (406
2) Gallatin County Dispatch will page group for activation.
3) The individual activating EPNS will then contact the Incident Commander to
obtain the following
a. Obtain message the IC wants distributed
i. Always include additional information source in message
ii. Provide instructions on what people are to do
iii. Always instruct people not to call 911 for additional
information
b. Identify specific area to be notified
i. This can be:
• Specific Address
• Radius from an address (including, or excluding,
specific address)
• Intersection
• Lat/ Long
• Polygon physically drawn on a map
• Pre loaded GIS Shape File
c. Try to be as specific as possible
d. Be cautious of over estimating a radius
4) Message must then be recorded over the phone at the EPNS Voice
Message Center (800
a. Remember to write"own the assi ned message number
5) EPNS Web Interface (ww must now be launched from a
iiwtible computer, or ca t e mergency Call Relay Center (800
a. Information from the Incident Commander is utilized to populate the
EPNS fields
i. Assigned message number must be entered here
b. A verification call back number must be entered. After activation
Intrado will call to verify.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A44
ATTACHMENT K
GALLATIN COUNTY INFORMATION LINE
ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
The Gallatin County Information Line, (406) 582-3175, is a recorded message
system that can accept 46 simultaneous callers listening to the message. It is
available to government agencies for providing updated information to the public
during an incident.
Activation Criteria
The Gallatin County Information Line is available for government agencies for
public safety uses.
Activation Procedure
1) Government agencies must request use of the Information Line from Gallatin
Count Emergency Management through Gallatin County Dispatch, (406)
2) Gallatin ounty Dispatch will contact Gallatin County Emergency
Management Duty Officer.
3) The EM Duty Officer will then contact the requesting agency to obtain the
following
a. Specific message to be recorded
b. How often the message will be updated
c. How will updates will be obtained
4) EM Duty Officer will then activate the information line
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12. Page A45
I
ATTACHMENT L
GALLATIN COUNTY INCIDENT WEBSITE
ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
Gallatin County Emergency Management maintains an
incident website, www.gallatinmedia.org, in which
incident information can be posted for the public. The
site is configured to provide creation of an incident, {
along with unlimited incident updates. This is achieved
through a web based interface that does not require
programming skills.*
Activation Criteria
The Gallatin County Incident Website is available for government agencies for
public safety uses.
Activation Procedure
1) Government agencies must request the use of the Incident Website from
Gallatin Count Emergency Management through Gallatin County Dispatch
(406
2) Galla in oun y Dispatch will contact the Emergency Management Duty
Officer.
3) The EM Duty Officer will then contact the requesting agency to obtain the
following
a. Specific information to be posted
b. How often the information will be updated
i. Method for obtaining updates
4) The EM Duty Officer will then create an incident on the website
a. For extended events, or events with PIOs, and account can be
created so agencies can update their own information.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning), 04/26/12, Page A46
ATTACHMENT M
HIGHWAY ADVISORY RADIO PORTABLES (HARP)
ACTIVATION PROCEDURES
Gallatin County Emergency Management operates three
Highway Advisory Radio Portables (HARP). These units are
trailer mounted AM radios that broadcast on either 1600 or
1700 kHz with a maximum range of 3-5 miles. The HARPs
are solar powered with battery backup. Each unit can be
updated remotely by telephone.
Activation Criteria {
HARPs are available to government agencies for public
safety use.
Authorization
HARPs are available through the Gallatin County Emergency
Management Duty Officer.
Activation Procedure
1) Government agencies must request deployment of a
HARP from Gallatin County Emergenc Mana ement s "
through Gallatin County Dispatch (406 '
2) Gallatin County Dispatch will contact the mergency
Management Duty Officer. _
3) EM Duty Officer will then contact the requesting agency directly and obtain
the following:
a. Area/ Population the agency wishes to cover with the HARPs
b. Specific message the agency wants broadcast
c. How often the message will need to be updated
i. Method for obtaining updates
d. Method citizens can obtain additional information
4) EM Duty Officer will then work on deployment of the HARPs
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12. Page A47
ATTACHMENT N
MSU Alert
Montana State University maintains a mass
notification system known as MSU Alert through
Inspiron Logistics (www.insprionlogistics.com).
M MONTANA
„wk UN ryxmgw
MSU utilizes this system to send pertinent
emergency messages by email and SMS to -=--_=�=-
individuals who have enrolled. Individuals may ---
enroll at www.montana.edu/msualert. W
Activation Criteria
MSU Alert is available for incidents affecting the —= —
MSU population.
Authorization
Must be authorized by MSU administration.
Activation Procedure
1) Government agencies must request activation of MSU Alert through Montana
State University Police Dispatch at 406
2) Once approved, a message formatted to it wit in 160 characters will need to
be developed.
Gallatin County EMP,Annex A(Warning),04/26/12, Page A48