DPH HOSTS FAMILY ASSISTANCE CENTER EMERGENCY RESPONSE FULL-SCALE EXERCISE

DOVER, Del. (April 19, 2024) - The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) hosted a Family Assistance Center (FAC) Full-Scale Exercise on Thursday, April 18, in Frankford. The exercise simulated a traffic collision with multiple coach buses and numerous injuries and fatalities. It was held to test the readiness and response capabilities of state agencies and the community.

DPH collaborated with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency, Delaware State Police, Delaware Division of Forensic Sciences, Division of Social Services, Victim Services and other emergency and community-based organizations to develop a comprehensive FAC plan. Participants acted out different scenarios that mimicked what might occur following the emergency.

The Full-Scale Exercise aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various response measures, including reunification information, patient/deceased tracking, implementation of a call center, communication strategies (including family and press briefings) and family support and victims' services operations. It also tested various aspects of the response process, including the coordination between different agencies and local hospital systems, the flow of information to the public and the support provided to survivors and their families.

"The exercise was an excellent opportunity for emergency responders and community stakeholders to practice and refine their emergency response plans," said Delaware Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Josette Manning. "It also served as a valuable learning experience, providing them with insights into what steps can be taken in the event of a real emergency."

"DPH is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all Delawareans," said DPH Director Steven Blessing. "By hosting this exercise, DPH aims to improve the coordination and effectiveness of emergency response efforts, ensuring that all Delawareans receive the support they need in times of crisis."

You can view the full recording of the exercise here.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

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