GIS Emergency Response

About the Program

Category: Risk and Emergency Management (Best in Category)

Year: 2016

After the flood in Colorado in September 2013 – the single largest and most expensive natural disaster in Boulder County’s history – it was discovered that the processes for GIS (Geographic Information Systems) emergency response was inadequate. To improve the system, a team of Boulder County and City of Boulder GIS employees, led by the Boulder Office of Emergency Management (OEM), spearheaded an initiative to create a formalized response to emergency incidents. The purpose of the project was to ensure there were no gaps in staffing, that everyone responding to incidents was formally trained, and that both the public and those working at the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) would ultimately be better informed. The outcomes included creating standard operating procedures, an improved staff notification system, training for qualified staff, improved communication with the public via interactive web maps, and improved data transfer and communication with various agencies. New response positions were created so GIS staff would know their duties before they arrive at the EOC and the organization would ensure that map requests are filled quickly and accurately. The new GIS liaison position manages all requests, clarifies information with Emergency Support Functions (ESFs), and addresses any technical issues. This structure allows GIS support staff to focus on updating data and filling map requests.