Coordinating Emergency Preparedness with Police and Fire
H
omeowners associations that desire to be prepared have valuable resources in their local police and fire departments. Three ways to enhance safety and emergency preparedness are: (i) compile information, (ii) establish a point of contact and (iii) participate in safety and emergency preparedness programs appropriate for your common interest community.
By Michael Klemm | Dougherty, Molenda, Solfest, Hills & Bauer P.A.
Information can make the difference between life or death in an emergency. Public safety personnel can do their job best if they receive accurate information about the people and the property as soon as possible. For example, in the event of a fire, it may be helpful to provide floor plans, the number of residents, and information about children or people with disabilities. Establishing a point of contact before an emergency occurs facilitates communication. In some cases, police or fire personnel need to provide information to unit owners or occupants, and it is helpful if they have contact information for a representative of the association. From the association’s perspective, it is important to designate someone to compile information and take the initiative to establish communication with emergency responders.
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Minnesota Communit y Living
Many police and fire departments offer safety and emergency preparedness programs, such as neighborhood watch, crime-free multifamily housing/ condominium programs, and fire safety workshops. Associations may also request assistance evaluating their property for safety and security issues related to doors, windows, locks, exterior lighting, landscape maintenance, fire safety and emergency plans. The city website is a good place to begin exploring resources available through police and fire departments. However, I recommend calling your local police or fire department’s non-emergency number to make a connection and find out what they recommend for your association.