Planning ahead for emergency management
Terrorist events and natural disasters in the past decade have highlighted the need for procurement flexibilities to permit efficient and expeditious acquisition of supplies and services needed in emergency situations. Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) is bringing together emergency managers and procurement agents, represented by state and local jurisdictions, into a unique forum to identify roles, responsibilities, priorities and processes during an emergency or disaster.
VDEM’s Emergency Management Procurement Forum & Workshop 2011, planned June 5-7 in Richmond, will include workshops presented by federal, state and local experts who will show attendees how to respond more effectively and efficiently to emergencies by identifying processes and relevant contacts. Bringing together procurement professionals and emergency managers will maximize response, while minimizing cost and loss during disasters.
The event will provide guidance on contracting in emergency situations, including planning for emergency procurements and structuring major contracts to facilitate emergency support from contractors.
Topics will include:
- Defining what is an emergency/disaster procurement and its value and role;
- The value of preplanning for an event to include identification of emergency services contracts, resources and vendor assistance;
- How to request resources during emergencies;
- Mitigation and recovery strategies;
- Communication tools and resources;
- Training and exercise resources;
- Lessons learned from prior events; and
- Vendor exhibitors.
For registration information, contact Peter Rigterink, VDEM Procurement Manager, at [email protected] or 804-897-6500.
