I remember a time in my life when I had to find things to do to keep myself occupied. That seems like so long ago. I now struggle to balance so many different priorities and accomplish way too many tasks. I know that many of you share with me the feeling that there just aren’t enough minutes in a day.
The last thing any of us wants to do is take more time away from our busy schedules and read another government created document. But sometimes it is critical that we find the time to do so. Too often we complain about the policies and the regulations that are developed at the federal level and then imposed on us (note: as a fed, I retain the right to complain about the feds). Too often we criticize the federal response plans. Unfortunately, our complaints (which some of us might call constructive criticisms) come after an event in which a plan, process, protocol, or regulation has been implemented and then applied in a real-world setting such as a disaster or major incident.
It’s easy to Monday morning quarterback after the event. Saying what should have been done differently rolls off our tongue with easy. The harder part is looking at a draft plan or regulation and having the vision to understand how it would really work. Some choose to do that – but unfortunately, fewer choose to be responsive, to step up to the plate and offer opinions, suggestions, and recommendations.
New York City has a little catchphrase they use for reporting suspicious activity ... "see something, say something." I like that phrase, and it can be well used here.
Today, you have an opportunity to comment on plans before they are implemented. Bob Smith has posted two documents in the CCN community. They are FEMA's draft version 2.0 of its Comprehensive Preparedness Guide (CPG) 101 - Developing and Maintaining Emergency Operations Plans and the US Department of Health and Human Services' Draft National Health Security Strategy Biennial Implementation Plan.
I’ll be honest. This isn’t exciting reading, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. But take the time to read and to comment on them. Something in one or both of these documents may impact you and your world. And if you miss the opportunity to review and comment now, you lose your right to complain later if these plans don’t meet your needs.
So take a look (see it) and comment (say something). Your contributions are important.