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Fatal Train Collision Kelso, Washington. 11 November 1993 0025 hours I-5 S/B near MP 36. Kelso Train Fatality. Stopped all N & S train traffic (W Wash) Stopped all traffic southbound I-5 Quickly backed up NB traffic
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Fatal Train CollisionKelso, Washington 11 November 1993 0025 hours I-5 S/B near MP 36
Kelso Train Fatality • Stopped all N & S train traffic (W Wash) • Stopped all traffic southbound I-5 • Quickly backed up NB traffic • Major issues included fatalities and potential chemical / Haz-Mat challenges • Train cars blocking two lanes SB
9 Fire Dept & Districts EMS WSP Cowlitz SO Kelso PD Kalama PD Longview PD BNSF Police DOT ODOT State DEM USCG Columbia Co OR Self-dispatched help 26 Agencies Involved
Why most things went well… • Personnel previously trained in ICS • Public Safety agencies had others’ frequencies • Command established from the start • Comm Plan established immediately… modified as incident grew • Later resources moved into ICS organization • Worked with the Media
Communications Plan • After taking command, IC made Comm decision and communicated it. • As incident grew, Comm Plan was adjusted to meet needs. • Responders without local TX were given radios or a “partner” • Sheriff’s Comm Van deployed… with Dispatcher
Communications Plan (con’t) • Three different frequencies used • Allowed for “normal” business to occur around the county on other frequencies
Lessons Learned….. • Have a Plan; esp. Communications • Train on the Plan – continual • Work the Plan – even partially if appropriate • Emergency Responders may not be able to talk with each other – NEVER “Assume” • Collaboration works!
Conclusion • Plan now - Communicate that Plan • You CAN save time, money, and most importantly……….LIVES! • Invest in Public Safety Communications… …..So That Others May Live. • “An imperfect plan today is better than an perfect plan tomorrow.” General George Patton