Public Information Guidelines
Public Info, FAQ & Contact
All public information is managed by Emergency Management
Community Notification
Primary notification comes from Emergency Management via the standard Nixle Community Training message at the Advisory level — broad notice of “public safety training” over an expanded timeframe (usually several days) for multiple communities.
Social Media Posts
Agency posts should initially reflect (or share) the Nixle Community Training message up to the event. Once each exercise is conducted, share the supporting notifications from Emergency Management on your agency’s social media feeds.
Media & Liaison Contacts
Emergency Management is the initial contact point for media and external stakeholder inquiries — primary talking points have been developed to ensure a standard, accurate account. We do not expect media on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of simulation will be used?
Minimal. This field drill primarily tests incident management & response actions, so there is little need for dramatic simulation such as play-acting, mocked-up victims, or major external messages. Most actions will be “walked through” in a carefully controlled and safe manner.
How stressful will this exercise be?
Moderate. Simulation is minimal, but we need to test our ability to execute the ASHER IAP in a semi-realistic timeframe and show we can do the critical actions for a real incident. Best described as a higher-level practice / testing session.
Are tactics being evaluated?
No. Tactics ARE NOT being evaluated — overall strategy and goal objectives are. It is less about speed than walking through the entire plan.
When are critical actions evaluated?
Precisely at 1 hour into the activity — including a full Incident Command.
Will there be real weapons?
No. NO LIVE FIREARMS / WEAPONS ON SITE. Secure weapons in your vehicle; you will verify with the Overwatch Controller. The shooter simulator carries a blue training gun and says “bang.”
How many times will we run the scenario?
Twice per session. After Run #1 there is a hot wash and re-stage; Run #2 uses a 2nd scenario with the same participant roles.
What if my unit gets a real call?
Adjustments may be made for units unable to attend due to emergencies. Exercise control or agencies may call off, delay, or alter the exercise within parameters. Real-world traffic is identified by “REAL EMERGENCY.”
Will media be on site?
We do not expect media on site. Refer all media and external inquiries to Emergency Management.
Pre-Exercise Briefing
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Wednesday Oct 28
Osceola County Emergency Management Center — 22054 Professional Dr, Reed City, MIOptional. A quick overview of the activities for participants & controllers, followed by time for any final exercise adjustments.
Exercise Questions
Mark Watkins
Osceola County Emergency Management — available for any activity questions up to the activity.