The first part of this multi-phase initiative includes the mapping of every state high-school facility using Rapid Responder, a new Internet-based mapping technology. It will provide first responders with access to critical school information -- including complete floor plans, site maps, utility control locations, tactical and evacuation plans and school contact information -- needed to address emergencies quickly, decisively and safely.
This project has been launched in accordance with recently passed Washington State House Bill 1218 sponsored by State Rep. John Lovick, which states:
The first school in King County to become part of the Rapid Responder system is Oliver M. Hazen High School in Renton School District. Other school districts to be completed this year include Olympia, Tri-Cities, Yakima and Vancouver among others. The project is estimated to be complete by January 2005.
"We're proud to be the first school district in the county to be included in this system," said Dolores Gibbons, Renton Schools superintendent. "The safety of our students is our highest priority, and this system is another step we've taken to plan for emergencies and potential disasters."
"In recent years, we've all seen evidence of the need for better response to emergencies, especially when children are involved," said Larry Erickson, executive director of WASPC. "Once this implementation is complete, we want this rollout to serve as a model for other similar scenarios elsewhere in the state: office buildings, government facilities, airports, medical facilities, anywhere first responders need to coordinate high volumes of data in an emergency."
Rapid Responder from Prepared Response is an interactive emergency response database system. It gives first responders directions to sites, staging areas and buildings, in addition to floor plans, site plans and both indoor and outdoor photos of each facility. It allows first responders to adequately prepare through pre-planning, actual response and recovery, providing the means to effect the highest level of organization and dissemination of all incident plans, site information and communication. For example, a site commander and emergency communications managers can view critical site information en route to an emergency, access building safety plans specific to the crisis, create and manage an incident plan, and communicate in real time with other crews through a secure Internet connection.
The first phase of the statewide building mapping system was funded by the 2003 legislature. The funding for this project was a priority for Senate Capital Budget Chairman Joseph Zarelli. WASPC is currently working with the Washington State Congressional delegation to secure funding for later phases of this project.
About WASPC
WASPC was founded in 1963 and consists of executive and top management personnel from law enforcement agencies statewide. The association combines representatives from local, state, and federal law enforcement into a single body, working toward a common goal. WASPC's function is to provide specific materials and services to all law enforcement agencies in the state, members and non-members alike. The 1975 legislature made WASPC a legal entity, designating the association a "combination of units of local government." WASPC regularly partners with other organizations and agencies to assist with and enhance efforts regarding public safety.