Motorola Knowledge Event Series 2019
Sharing resources in response to multi-hazard events: perspectives from Texas, USA - Proceedings

May 2019

Longer operational seasons and the complexities of climate change are increasing the pressure on existing fire and emergency service resources and workforces.

In addition, multiple and compounding events further complicate the emergency response process, requiring an increase in response capability and cross-border deployments.

To confront these challenges, AFAC and Motorola have teamed up again to deliver the 2019 Knowledge Event Series on the topic ‘sharing resources in response to multi-hazard events: perspectives from Texas, USA’.

City of Webster Fire Chief and Emergency Manager Patrick Shipp in Melbourne.

Fire Chief and Emergency Manager Patrick Shipp from the City of Webster in Houston, Texas presented on the operational lessons and challenges from multi-hazard events including the national level space target hazard, Hurricane Harvey, wildfires and human-made disasters, sharing his professional insights and answering questions from the audience.

He was accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Steve Yorke who provided an Australian perspective on resourcing. As Director, Operational and Mitigation Services at NSW Rural Fire Service, Assistant Commissioner Yorke has been active in many major fire incidents and has been deployed to Canada and Tasmania through the AFAC National Resource Sharing Centre.

Attendees gained valuable insights about the importance of effective coordination and communication with different agencies during operational periods.