Training
The Local Disaster Coordinator (LDC) ensures that a suitable disaster management training program is designed and implemented, in collaboration with the training provided by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services as part of the Queensland Disaster Management Training Framework. The program includes training through workshops, discussion forums and formal instruction, to maintain disaster management knowledge and understanding of all participants at the highest possible level.
The LDC liaises with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (Emergency Management) in relation to accessing State and Commonwealth-provided training programs and will arrange for members of the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) to be made aware of training courses or other appropriate activities being offered by the Department of Emergency Services or other agency.
Personnel that have responsibilities under disaster management plans are expected to demonstrate their knowledge, skills and experience, and undertake a program of continuous development. Evaluation of training events is undertaken to ensure training is effective and meets user needs. An auditable record of attendance is maintained by the LDC.
Community members who form the Community Disaster Teams are offered training from the state-wide Disaster Management Training Framework.
Exercises
Exercises are a key component of disaster management strategies as they allow procedural and functional weaknesses to be identified and mitigated prior to a real event. Exercising can take many forms, from simple discussion-type exercises to full scale live operations.
Disaster management exercises are used to test the arrangements in plans, allow staff an opportunity to assess the arrangements in both a theoretical and practical environment, and allow organisations to practice their role in a ‘safe’ environment, which builds confidence in plans and the resilience of arrangements.
Exercises are evaluated through observation, debrief and feedback. A hot debrief with all participants is held immediately after the conclusion of an exercises and data is captured from feedback evaluation forms. Within 14 days of the exercise, an after action review is held to capture learning in relation to the exercise design and conduct, and the achievement of exercise objectives.
Following significant exercises, a post-exercise report identifies good practice and lessons to be learnt. The report is presented to the LDMG and Council, who then endorse the recommendations and timeframes for implementation. The LDMG is responsible for monitoring the implementation of recommendations.