Appendix G - Acronyms and Glossary | Emergency Management

List of Acronyms

AAR: After Action Report

ARC: American Red Cross (Help see www.redcross.org)

BCDOH: Broome County Department of Health

BCOES: Broome County Office of Emergency Services

BCSD: Broome County Sheriff’s Department

BFD: Binghamton Fire Department

BPD: Binghamton Police Department

BU: Binghamton University

CAP: Civil Air Patrol

CATV: Community Antenna Television

CBRNE: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive

CCC: Comprehensive Communication Center

CDC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

CEOC: Campus Emergency Operations Center

CEM: Certified Emergency Manager®

CEMP: Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan

CFR: Code of Federal Regulations

CMS: Crowd Management Services

COE: Corps of Engineers, U.S. Army

COOP: Continuity of Operations Plan

CP: Command Post

CPW: Community Planning Workshop

CSC: Community Service Center

DAC: Disaster Assistance Center

DOH: Department of Health

EAA: Emergency Assembly Area

EAP: Employee Assistance Program

EAS: Emergency Alert System

EBS: Emergency Broadcast System

ECC: Emergency Coordination Center

EH: Environmental Health and Safety

EHSO: Environmental Health and Safety Officer

EHTR: Emergency Highway Traffic Regulations

EMA: Emergency Management Areas

EMAC: Emergency Management Advisory Committee

EMS: Emergency Medical Services

EO: Executive Order

EOC: Emergency Operations Center

ERCO: Emergency Response Coordinating Officer

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency, U.S.

ERT: Emergency Response Team

ESF: Emergency Support Function

FCO: Federal Coordinating Officer

FEMA: Federal Emergency Management Agency

FHWA: Federal Highway Administration, U.S.

FOSC: Federal On-Scene Coordinator

HAZMAT: Hazardous Material; Hazardous Material Response Team

GAR: Governor’s Authorized Representative

IAA: Immediate Area of Assembly

IACUC: Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee

IAP: Incident Action Plan

IC: Incident Commander

ICP: Incident Command Post

ICS: Incident Command System

IDA: Initial Damage Assessment

IEMS: Integrated Emergency Management System

IMT: Incident Management Team

ITS: Information Technology Services (Binghamton University Department)

JIC: Joint Information Center

LH: Local Hospital

LNO: Liaison Officer

MAST: Military Assistance to Safety and Traffic

MC: Media Center

MCI: Mass Casualty Incidents

MW: Media Workshop

MYDP: Multi-Year Development Plan

NAWAS: National Warning System

NFIP: National Flood Insurance Program

NIMS: National Incident Management System

NOAA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NWS: National Weather Service

NYS: New York State

NYSOEM: New York State Office of Emergency Management

NYSP: New York State Police

NYSUP: New York State University Police

OES: Office of Emergency Services, Broome County

PDA: Preliminary Damage Assessment

PIC: Public Information Center

PIO: Public Information Officer

PL: Public Law

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment

PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Network

RACES: Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service

RDA: Rapid Damage Assessment

SCO: State Coordinating Officer

SO: Safety Officer

SOG: Senior Officer Group (Binghamton University specific term)

SOP: Standard Operating Procedures

SUNY: State University of New York

TAA: Temporary Assembly Area

UC: Unified Command

UVES: Union Volunteer Emergency Services (Ambulance)

VFD: Vestal Fire Department

VPD: Vestal Police Department

VVES: Vestal Volunteer Emergency Services (Ambulance)

WMD: Weapon of Mass Destruction

Glossary

After Action Report (AAR)	Document compiled by the Planning Section that includes information about the incident, the response actions taken and lessons learned.
Agency	Any department, division, commission, authority, government corporation, independent establishment or other agency of state or local government. See also "Federal Agency."
Agency Executive or Administrator	Chief executive officer (or designee) of the agency or jurisdiction that has ultimate responsibility for the incident. The president (or designee) would be the Agency Executive for an emergency situation that occurs on the Binghamton University campus.
Agency Representative	Individual assigned to an incident from an assisting or cooperating agency who has been delegated full authority to make decisions on all matters affecting that agencies participation at the incident. Agency Representatives report to the Incident Liaison Officer
American Red Cross	The national organization of the Red Cross organized to undertake activities for the relief of person suffering from disaster.
Branches	If Divisions or Groups exceed the span of control, it may be necessary to establish Branches. Established if the number of Divisions or Groups exceeds the span of control. Have functional or geographical responsibility for major parts of incident operations. Managed by Branch Director.
Building Administrator (BA)	Each building on campus shall be assigned a minimum of one person responsible for the operation of that building. In addition to duties typically assigned to the building administrator, the individual shall serve as a liaison between the building and emergency responders during critical incidents. The BA shall be assigned a two-way portable radio from University Police that is capable of communicating with the UPD dispatcher. During critical incidents when the BA is on campus, the BA shall report to the incident command post.
CAMEO	Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations. CAMEO is a software package that allows response teams to quickly: access data on chemical compounds; identify areas that could be affected by toxic plumes; plot the course of toxic plumes; and project possible accident scenarios and how to respond to them effectively
Capability Assessment	Capability assessment is a process to measure existing capability and identify specific deficiencies in emergency management.
Campus Emergency Operations Center (CEOC)	This is the site designated to serve as the response and strategy center throughout the incident and recovery period. University Police will announce the location of the CEOC if it has been determined that the CEOC should be set up.
Certified Emergency Manager® (CEM®)	An individual professional certification granted to qualified emergency managers by the International Emergency Managers Association. (See www.iaem.com for information)
CHEMTREC	Chemical Transportation Emergency Center. A public service of the American Chemistry Council (formerly known as the Manufacturing Chemists Association) to provide immediate advice for those at the scene of emergencies involving chemicals and then contact the shipper for more detailed assistance and appropriate follow-up. The service is available 24 hours a day at the toll-free number: 1-800-424-9300. (Help see www.chemtrec.org/)
Chief Executive	The executive of a county; or The mayor of a city or village; or The supervisor of a town; or President and/or chancellor of an educational institution.
Command	The act of directing, ordering and/or controlling resources by virtue of explicit legal, agency or delegated authority.
Command Staff	Carry out staff functions needed to support the Incident Commander including: Liaison, Safety Officer, Public Information Officer and EOC Coordinator.
Communications Unit	Assigned to the Service Branch of the Logistics Section Prepares and supports the Incident Communication Plan (ICS Form 205). Distributes and maintains communications equipment. Supervises the Incident Communications Center. Establishes adequate communications over the incident.
Community Planning Workshop (CPW)	Program within the Community Service Center that provides graduate students in the planning, public policy and management department with opportunities in applied planning research and assistance to communities, agencies, and organizations across Oregon. Students have assisted in: Facilitating and documenting EMAC meetings Developing tabletop, functional, and full-scale exercises Composing after action reports following exercises Researching best practices from case study universities Presenting recommendations to enhance UO’s program
Community Service Center (CSC)	Interdisciplinary organization that assists Oregon communities by providing planning and technical assistance to help solve local issues. The Community Planning Workshop (CPW) is one of the service-learning elements of the CSC
Compensation/Claims Unit	Assigned to the Finance Section, the Compensation/Claims Unit is responsible for management and direction of administrative matters pertaining to: Compensation for injury. Claims-related activities kept for the incident.
Comprehensive Communication Center	General term that refers to a centralized location that houses a Joint Information Center, Media Center and Media Workroom.
Comprehensive Emergency Management	Comprehensive emergency management is a concept that refers to the management of emergency programs by coordinating and integrating wide-range functions of numerous agencies for all types of emergencies; all phases of operation (prevention/mitigation, response and recovery); and at all levels of government (village, city, township, county). The concept assumes the establishment of a working partnership between government at all three levels and the private sector.
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP)	This is the official plan of Binghamton University for responding to unplanned incidents that could disrupt University operations and/or injure people or cause damage to buildings.
Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)	Document including strategies on how to return to “business as usual” as soon as possible following a major disaster.
Cost Unit	Assigned to the Finance Section Collects all cost data. Performs cost effectiveness analyses. Provides cost estimates. Makes cost savings recommendations.
County Assistance	Aid to disaster victims or local governments by county agencies. Such assistance may be in the form of lending county equipment, supplies, facilities, personnel or other resources; performing emergency work or services essential to saving lives and to protecting and preserving property, public health and safety; debris clearance; and temporary housing.
County's Authorized Agent	The person named by the county executive to execute on behalf of the county all necessary documents for disaster assistance from the state and federal government, following the gubernatorial and presidential declarations.
Crisis Communication Team	The Crisis Communication Team works with the president and the campus Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to develop the plan of action in communicating information to all constituencies. The Crisis Communication Team shall be led by representatives from the Office of Communications and Marketing.
Damage Assessment	Appraisal or determination of actual effects resulting from an emergency or disaster. An estimate of the damages to a geographic area is made after a disaster has occurred, and serves as the basis for the governor’s request for a presidential disaster declaration.
Damage Assessment Report	Report containing information on destroyed property, major damage and minor damage to the extent not covered by insurance, prepared by a local damage assessment team. The report will include an evaluation of the social and economic impact of the disaster in terms of "people problems" and assistance required.
Deactivation	Determined by the Incident Commander, requires demobilization of response units and documentation of the incident (i.e. After Action Reports).
Demobilization Unit	Assigned to Planning Section. The Demobilization Unit assists in ensuring that resources are released from the incident in an orderly, safe and cost-effective manner.
Disaster	Occurrence or imminent threat of widespread or severe damage, injury or loss of life or property resulting from any natural or man-made cause including fire, flood, earthquake, wind, storm, wave action, oil spill or other water contamination, radioactive activity, epidemic, air contamination, blight, drought, infestation, explosion, riot, hostile military or paramilitary action, or other public calamity requiring emergency action.
Disaster (Major Disaster)	“Any hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, drought, fire, explosion or other catastrophe in any part of the United States, which, in the determination of the president, causes damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant major disaster assistance, under PL 93-288, above and beyond emergency services by the federal government, to supplement the efforts and available resources of states, local governments and disaster-relief organizations in alleviating the damage, loss, hardship or suffering caused thereby.” (PL 93-288)
Disaster Assistance Center	A temporary office located at or near a disaster site that is staffed with representatives of federal, state, local and volunteer agencies for the purpose of assisting individual disaster victims in obtaining disaster relief to which they are entitled. Often called a "one-stop" center.
Disaster Relief Act of 1974	Public Law 93-288 (PL 93-288). The law enacted by Congress to enable the president to establish a program of disaster preparedness utilizing the services of all appropriate federal agencies for the prevention/mitigation, response and recovery from emergencies and major disasters including technical assistance, use of federal resources and financial assistance.
Divisions	Divisions are established to divide an incident into geographical areas of operation. Divisions are usually labeled using alphabet characters (A, B, C, etc.). Other identifiers may be used as long as division identifiers are known by assigned responders. A division is managed by a supervisor.
Documentation Unit	Assigned to Planning Section. Provides duplication services, including the written Incident Action Plan. Maintains and archives all incident-related documentation.
Drill	Supervised instruction period aimed at testing, developing and maintaining skills in a particular operation. A drill is often a component of an exercise.
EAS	Emergency Alert System (Replacing the Emergency Broadcast System)
EBS	Emergency Broadcast System (being replaced by the Emergency Alert System (EAS) by FCC regulation adopted November 10, 1994).
EHTR	Emergency Highway Traffic Regulations. Federal and state regulations for the control of highway usage during times of emergency.
Emergency	“Any hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, drought, fire, explosion or other catastrophe that requires emergency assistance to save lives and protect public health and safety or to avert or lessen the threat of a major disaster.” (PL 93–288).
Emergency	Air and water contamination, blight, civil disturbance or terrorism, drought, earthquake or volcanic activity, energy emergency, epidemic, explosion, fire, flood or high water, forest fire, hazardous material accident, hurricane, tornado, windstorm, ice jam, ice storm, infestation, landslide or mudslide; oil spill, radiological accident or incident, snowstorm or blizzard, transportation accident or other catastrophe in a part of the county which requires county emergency assistance to supplement local efforts to save lives and property, public health and safety, or to avert or lessen the threat of a disaster. Also used in the Disaster Relief Act of 1974 with similar meaning when federal emergency assistance is required to supplement state efforts.
Emergency Assembly Area (EAA)	A pre-designated safe location used in response to campus wide emergencies where essential services can be provided to displaced persons.
Emergency Assembly Area Coordinators	Manages and supervises efforts to provide essential services in the Emergency Assembly Area (EAA).
Emergency Management Advisory Committee (EMAC)	Representative group of administrative and auxiliary units on campus that provides guidance on all management plans, policies, procedures, training and exercises related to mitigation, response, preparedness and recovery.
Emergency Operations Center	A site from which civil government officials (municipal, county, state and federal) and businesses exercise direction and control in an emergency. A facility with the necessary communications from which essential emergency functions can be directed, controlled and coordinated on a 24-hour basis.
Emergency Responder(s)	Specially trained individuals who provide assistance in an emergency (or potential emergency) situations. They are not typically building occupants and may be from University Police, local fire departments, Environmental Health and Safety, Facilities Management, etc. In critical situations they may take charge of the building and have full authority over activities in and around the building.
Emergency Response Coordinating Officer (ERCO) [CEOC Manager]	The ERCO can convene the Emergency Response Resource Group (ERRG) and serves as the manager of the ERRG. The ERCO can serve as liaison to the President’s Office in the absence of the president’s appointed liaison.
Emergency Response Team (ERT)	An on-campus technical rescue team comprised of University employees from several departments. The ERT is trained and equipped to respond to the following types of emergencies: Confined space rescue Trench collapse rescue Hazardous materials response High/low angle rope rescue Ice rescue Wilderness search and rescue
Emergency Shelter	A form of mass or other shelter provided for the communal care of individuals or families made homeless by an emergency or major disaster.
Emergency Support Function (ESF)	The primary operational-level mechanism to provide assistance,. ESFs are organized around functional capabilities (e.g. emergency management, transportation, search and rescue, etc.). ESFs are annexes to the University’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP).
Emergency Support Function (ESF) Coordinator	The entity assigned to manager oversight for a particular ESF.
Emergency Support Function (ESF) Primary Agency	Agency with significant authorities, resources or capabilities for a particular function within an ESF. The primary agency is responsible for: Serving as the agency’s agent to accomplish the ESF mission. Orchestrating the agency’s support within its functional area for an affected locality. Providing staff for the operations functions at fixed and field facilities. Notifying and requesting assistance from support agencies. Managing mission assignments and coordinating with support agencies and appropriate local, state and federal agencies. Working with appropriate private-sector organizations to maximize use of all available resources. Supporting and keeping other ESFs and organizational elements informed of ESF operational priorities and activities. Maintaining trained personnel to support interagency emergency response and support teams.
Emergency Support Function (ESF) Support Agency	An entity with specific capabilities or resources that support the primary agencies in executing the mission of the ESF. Support agencies are responsible for: Conducting operations, when requested by the designated ESF primary agency, using their own authorities, subject-matter experts, capabilities or resources. Participating in planning for short- and long-term incident management and recovery operations and the development of supporting operational plans, standard operating procedures (SOPs), checklists or other job aids, in concert with existing first-responder standards. Assisting in the conduct of situational assessments. Furnishing available personnel or other resource support as requested the ESF primary agency. Providing input to periodic readiness assessments. Participating in training and exercises aimed at continuous improvement of response and recovery capabilities. Identifying new equipment or capabilities required to prevent or respond to new or emerging threats and hazards, or to improve the ability to address existing threats.
Environmental Health and Safety (EHS)	Binghamton University's Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) provides guidance needed to promote a safe campus environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors. EH&S personnel have experience and training in a variety of disciplines, including: Emergency, fire, medical and hazardous materials response Industrial hygiene Occupational safety Biological sciences Hazardous waste management
Executive Commander Center	A part of an emergency operations center where the CEO and other policymakers deal with broad organizational issues, establish links with high-level officials and address any political problems.
EOC Coordinator and Support Staff	Sets up the EOC upon notice of activation. Provides staff support within the EOC prior, during and after an emergency.
Evacuees, Spontaneous	Persons who might leave an area in periods of intense crisis in response to a real or feared threat whether or not they are advised to do so.
Evacuation Recommendation	Recommendation made by a presiding official to all or part of the population to evacuate from a stricken or threatened area, considered necessary for the preservation of life or other disaster mitigation response or recovery.
Exercise	Activity designed to promote emergency preparedness; test or evaluate emergency operation’s plans, procedures or facilities; train personnel in emergency response duties; and demonstrate operational capability. There are three specific types of exercises: Tabletop Functional Full-Scale
Facilities Unit	Assigned to the Support Branch of the Logistics Section. Sets up and maintains facilities. Provides managers for Base and Camps. Provides facility security and maintenance services (sanitation, lighting, and cleanup).
Federal Agency	Any department, independent establishment, governmental corporation or other agency of the executive branch of the federal government including the U. S. Postal Service, but not including the American Red Cross.
Federal Assistance	Aid to disaster victims or state or local governments by federal agencies. Such assistance may be in the form of federal agencies utilizing or lending equipment, supplies, facilities, personnel or other federal resources; the distribution, through relief or disaster assistance organizations or otherwise of medicine, food and other consumable supplies; emergency assistance; donating or lending equipment and supplies, performing emergency work or services essential to save lives and to protect and preserve property, public health and safety; debris clearance; temporary housing; financial assistance in the repair and restoration of certain damaged facilities; and several other forms.
Federal Coordinating Officer	The person appointed to coordinate federal assistance in a presidential declared emergency or major disaster.
Federal Disaster Relief Act	Public Law 93-288, as amended, gives the president broad powers to assist state and local governments in carrying out their responsibilities to alleviate suffering and damage resulting from major disasters.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)	Agency established to oversee federal assistance to local government in the event of major disasters. Also administers the Emergency Management Assistance Program, which provides emergency management funds to local government through the states. (Help See www.fema.gov)
Federal On-Scene Coordinator (FOSC)	Federal employee responsible for coordinating the on-scene federal response to a hazardous material incident. The FOSC will usually be a member of the U.S. Coast Guard or the Environmental Protection Agency.
Finance and Administration Section	Established as needed to provide financial, reimbursement and administrative support to incident management activities. Responsible for purchasing and cost accountability related to the incident. Documents expenditures, purchase authorizations, damage to property, equipment usage and vendor contracting. Develops FEMA documentation.
First Responder	Under the type of emergency medical response system used locally, the nearest fire company and a medic unit respond to life-threatening emergencies. That fire company is equipped to perform basic life support prior to the medic unit’s arrival and is considered a “first responder.”
Flood Hazard	Natural hazard defined in terms of the 100-year flood. This type of flood has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. People or structures located in the 100-year flood zone are vulnerable to injury and damages. A flood disaster is one that injures a number of people, causes significant property damage, or both.
Food Unit	Assigned to the Service Branch of the Logistics Section. Supplies the food and potable water. Obtains equipment and supplies to operate food service facilities.
General Staff	Operations Section Chief, Planning Section Chief, Logistics Section Chief, Finance/Administration Section Chief
Governor's Authorized Representative	The person named by the governor in the federal-state agreement under PL 93-288 to execute on behalf of the state all necessary documents for disaster assistance following the declaration by the president of an emergency or major disaster, including certification of applications for public assistance.
Ground Support Unit	Assigned to the Support Branch of the Logistics Section. Prepares the Transportation Plan. Arranges for, activates and documents the fueling and maintenance of ground resources. Arranges for transportation of personnel, supplies, food and equipment.
Groups	Groups are used to describe functional areas of operation. Are established based on the needs of an incident. Are labeled according to the job that they are assigned (e.g., Health and Safety Group, Public Works Group). Are managed by a supervisor. Work wherever their assigned task is needed and are not limited geographically.
Hazard Analysis	Hazard analysis is a process of systematic investigation of potential disasters in terms of frequency, magnitude, location and probability of occurrence in order to forecast their possible effects on the people, systems, facilities and resources of the institution.
Immediate Assembly Area (IAA) [Muster Point]	An immediate assembly area to be used by personnel who are evacuated from their building. This area is to be used as a meeting place to ensure building occupants have been accounted for and also a place to wait to receive further instruction by emergency responders. IAA locations are to be determined by the building administrator.
Incident Action Plan (IAP)	Written or verbal strategy for responding to the incident developed by the Incident Commander and section chiefs.
Incident Command System (ICS)	An Incident Management System with a common organizational structure with responsibility for the management of assigned resources to effectively accomplish stated objectives pertaining to an incident.
Incident Commander(IC)	The individual responsible for the management of all incident operations, including development, implementation and review of strategic decisions, as well as post-event assessment.
Incident Command Post (ICP)	This is the on-site operations center at which the primary command functions are executed. The Incident Commander is in charge of the ICP. A description of the ICP operation is in Section III University Police.
Incident Management Team (IMT)	The Incident Commander and appropriate Command and General staff personnel assigned to an incident.
Integrated Emergency Management System (IEMS)	A broad, all-hazard emergency management system that encompasses all the various types of emergencies and addresses mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery activities. Encourage the development of the common management functions required for response to emergencies of all types while recognizing the unique preparedness requirements of specific hazards. IEMS enables each level of government to integrate with other levels as well as with private sector resource providers. Optimum use and integration of existing skilled personnel, emergency facilities and emergency equipment across all levels of government are encouraged.
Joint Information Center (JIC)	Location established by state and federal government subsequent to a Presidential Disaster Declaration. These centers serve a dual role of collecting damage information relating to the private sector and serving as a referral center to help individuals in getting available assistance to meet immediate needs. Part the CCC.
Level 1 & 2 Emergency	Definition:
	The situation adversely impacts or threatens life, health or property at the University on a large scale and control of the incident will require multiple agencies and multiple University departments working together. Long-term implications are likely. Extensive outside resources are needed and required. Incident is large in size and scope and is imminent or presently occurring. Normal operations are curtailed or suspended. Serious injuries and/or property damage have occurred or could occur. Numerous agencies or jurisdictions are involved in incident resolution. The incident may impact the community as well as the organization’s property. Examples: Large-scale chemical release; earthquake; major, long-term power outage; building collapse; ice storm; evacuee mega-shelter; large-scale external emergency (e.g. Sept. 11, 2001)
	Action:
	The Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan and EOC are fully activated. Normal University operations are suspended. Staff vacations and planned leaves may be terminated. The EOC coordinates efforts with the town, city, county and state as needed. Unified Command is typically used to manage incident response.

Level 3 Emergency (Alert)	Definition:
	If the situation impacts or threatens life, health or property on a large scale at one or more locations within the University, control of the incident may require specialists in addition to University and outside agency personnel. Long-term implications may result. The use of outside resources will likely be required. Area of involvement is large or beyond a single site. The threat has been verified or deemed credible. The incident is likely to disrupt normal operations. Multiple agencies or jurisdictions are involved in the management of the incident. The threat of injuries or property damage has already occurred or is likely. The notoriety of the incident will attract media and public attention. Examples: City water main break (involving service to multiple buildings); loss of heat or power (to multiple buildings); fire affecting an residential building; chemical release (causing the evacuation of one or more buildings); hostage situation; labor disruption; large-scale civil unrest on University property; missing student; suspicious death (on campus)
	Action:
	The director of emergency management and/or a chief officer from University Police determine whether to activate the Incident Management Team (IMT) and the Policy Group. The director of emergency management designates the appropriate IC. The IMT staff sets up the EOC and calls on support staff for assistance. IC in communication with the chief of police and the director of emergency management determines necessary Incident Command Staff to report to the Incident Command Post (ICP). Some operations and classes may be suspended. Unified command with Town of Vestal Fire Department or other outside agencies personnel maybe implemented.
Level 4 Emergency (Monitor / Standby)	Definition:
	If the situation escalates to include an unplanned event that may adversely impact or threaten life, health or property within a single area and control of the incident is beyond the capability of University employees, outside agency assistance will be necessary. Limited outside resources needed at present time. Limited or specific area of involvement at the present time. Minor impact on facilities or operations; some specific change in normal operations may be called for. Strong but unsubstantiated potential for some disruption, internal or external. Examples: Death of a student; chemical spill (requiring a disruption of services and a FD Hazmat response): city water main break (involving most of a building or one which threatens non-critical services); odor requiring evacuation; loss of heat or power to a building for a short term
	Action:
	The onsite lead unit/department handles the situation following the lead unit’s Standard Operating Procedures. The lead unit responding to an incident is the Incident Commander (IC). If a situation requires additional resources, the IC contacts the department head to help monitor the situation and to provide additional guidance. If the incident has the potential to grow, the department head will notify University Police. The Binghamton University IMT may be placed on stand-by mode.

Level 5 Emergency (Non-emergency/Administrative)	Definition:
	An unplanned event that is not likely to adversely impact or threaten life, health or property. Control of the incident is within the capabilities of University employees and the duration of the event is limited. Minimal, if any, outside resources needed. Limited or specific area of involvement. No serious injuries or threat of injuries. Minor or no impact on facilities or operations. Handled administratively on a “need-to-know” basis; no general announcement necessary. Level 5 includes monitoring of a special or scheduled event. Examples: Automatic fire alarm; small chemical spill; localized water pipe break affecting a portion of a building; localized undetermined odor problem; student demonstration
	Action:
	The onsite lead unit/department handles the situation following the lead unit’s Standard Operating Procedures. The lead unit responding to an incident is the Incident Commander (IC).
Liaison Officer	Serves as contact point for other agencies. Coordinates with external public (such as city, county, state or federal agencies) and private resource groups.
Logistics Section	Responsible for providing all support needs to the incident, including resource procurement from off-incident locations. Provides facilities, transportation, supplies, equipment maintenance and fueling, food service, communications and medical services.
Local Hospital (LH)	Binghamton University is served by three local hospitals: Lourdes Hospital, Wilson Memorial Hospital, and Binghamton General Hospital. All three hospitals are within two miles of the Binghamton University campus. Wilson Memorial Hospital is the region’s trauma center.
Man-made Disaster	Any disaster that results from human actions or the lack thereof, including but not limited to fire, epidemic, air or water contamination, explosion or radiological accident
MAST	Military Assistance to Safety and Traffic. A cooperative program of the federal departments of transportation, defense, and health and human services whereby suitably equipped Army and Air Force helicopters with medically trained crew members maintained in a state of readiness for military requirements also respond to civilian medical emergencies where they can do so without compromising their primary military mission.
Media Center (MC)	This is the site at the University where the communication staff will brief the media and issues press announcements. Part of the CCC.
Media Workroom	A facility close to the Media Center where members of the media can conduct their operations for large, multi-day incidents. Part of the CCC.
Medical Unit	Assigned to the Service Branch of the Logistics Section. Develops the Medical Plan (ICS Form 206). Provides first aid and light medical treatment. Prepares procedures for a major medical emergency.
Mitigation	Mitigation activities are those that eliminate or reduce the probability of a disaster occurring. Also included are long-term activities that lessen the undesirable effects of unavoidable hazards.
Multi-year Development Plan	The multi-year development plan is a planning and management tool that allows emergency managers to program the elimination of capability shortfalls identified by the capability assessment and project the fiscal requirements to accomplish this.
Mutual Aid	Two-way assistance, by public entities of two or more, given under pre-arranged plans or contracts on the basis that each will aid the other in time of emergency as requested.

National Incident Management System (NIMS)	A comprehensive national framework for integrating best practices in emergency preparedness and response. This system provides consistency through standard organizational structures and procedures across jurisdictional boundaries and disciplines. NIMS is based on three key organizational structures: Incident Command System (ICS) Multi-agency Coordination (MAC) System Public Information Systems University personnel from all departments may assume staff positions within the ICS structure to perform emergency related duties when requested to do so by the Incident Commander.
Natural Disaster	Any disaster that results from natural causes, including but not limited to earthquake, hurricane, tornado, storm, high wind, flood or wave action.
National Warning System (NAWAS)	Federal portion of the Civil Defense Warning System used for dissemination of warning and other emergency information from federal and state warning points to the county warning point. A system of dedicated telephone lines originating at Colorado Springs, Colorado, through various federal and state warning points and terminating at county and city warning points, weather service installations and other critical locations. The system is staffed 24 hours a day for the primary purpose of disseminating warning of enemy attack and is also used to disseminate warnings and information on all types of emergencies and disasters. The state EOC is the New York state warning point and controls the system within the state.
NYS Office of Emergency Management (NYSOEM)	Responsible for coordinating the activities of all state agencies to protect New York's communities, the state's economic well-being and the environment from natural and man-made disasters and emergencies. NYS OEM routinely assists local governments, voluntary organizations and private industry through a variety of emergency management programs including hazard identification, loss prevention, planning, training, operational response to emergencies, technical support and disaster recovery assistance.
Office of Emergency Services	Broome County Office of Emergency Services is comprised of four divisions: Communications, Fire Prevention and Control, Emergency Medical Services, and Disaster Preparedness. This office is housed in the Public Safety Facility at 153 Lt. VanWinkle Dr., Binghamton.
On-Scene Command Post	Facility at a safe distance from an accident site from which the incident commander, responders and technical representatives can make response decisions, deploy manpower and equipment, maintain liaison with media and handle communications.
One-Stop Center	See "Disaster Assistance Center"
Operational Guides	Guides contain key information from the emergency plan for management team members and are designed to get the plan activated. Guide information includes a description of position responsibilities, incident level definitions, critical tasks, emergency contact information and a list of team members.
Operations Section	Responsible for managing tactical operations to reduce immediate hazard, save lives and property, establish situational control and restore normal conditions.
PL 93-288	Public Law 93-288, The Disaster Relief Act of 1974.
Planning Section	The Planning Section Chief is responsible for gathering and analyzing all data regarding incident operations and assigned resources, developing alternatives for tactical operations, conducting planning meetings and preparing an action plan for each operational period.
Policy Group	Provides direction in making strategic policy decisions for any incident that impacts the University’s ability to perform its critical business functions. Activates, oversees and terminates the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) response.
Preparedness	Preparedness activities, programs and systems are those existing prior to an emergency and used to support and enhance response to an emergency or disaster. Planning, training and exercising are among activities conducted under this phase.
Presidential Emergency Declaration	Issued when the president has determined that a catastrophe in any part of the United States requires federal emergency assistance to supplement state and local efforts to save lives; protect property, public health and safety; or to avert or lessen the threat of a catastrophe.
Presidential Major Disaster Declaration	Issued when the president has determined that a catastrophe has caused damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant federal assistance under PL 93-288, as amended by PL 100-707 or subsequent legislation, above and beyond emergency services provided by the federal government to supplement the efforts and available resources of local governments and other relief organizations in alleviating damage, loss, hardship or suffering as a result of a catastrophe.
Procurement Unit	Assigned to the Finance Section. Responsible for administering all financial matters pertaining to: Vendor contracts Leases Fiscal agreements
Public Information Officer (PIO)	Develops and releases incident information to the media, incident personnel and other appropriate agencies and organizations.
Public Switched Telephone Network	Binghamton University’s campus telephone system connects to the rest of the world through the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). Should call volume dramatically increase in the Binghamton area, call blocking could occur.
RACES	Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service. An organization of licensed amateur radio operators dedicated to providing communications services during time of emergency.
Recovery	Recovery is both a short-term and long-term process. Short-term operations seek to restore vital services to the community and provide for the basic needs of the public. Long-term recovery focuses on restoring the community to its normal, or an improved, state of affairs. The recovery period is also the appropriate time to institute mitigation measures, particularly those related to the recent emergency, including reassessing the Emergency Plan and planning process for deficiencies.
Resources	All the assets of an agency or organization, including materials, systems and personnel.
Resources Unit:	Assigned to Planning Section Conducts all check-in activities and maintains the status of all incident resources. Plays a significant role in preparing the written Incident Action Plan.
Response	Response involves activities and programs designed to address the immediate and short-term effects of the onset of an emergency or disaster. Aids in reducing casualties and damages and in speeding recovery. Response activities include direction and control, warning evacuation, rescue and other similar operations.
Safety Officer	Develops and recommends measure for assuring personnel safety. Monitors and/or anticipates hazardous and unsafe conditions.
Section Chief	The first position activated in each section (Operations, Logistics, Planning, and Finance and Administration), these members of General Staff in the Incident Command System are responsible for the management of response activities in each section.
Service Branch	Assigned to the Logistics Section. Communications Unit Medical Unit Food Unit
Single Resources	Assigned to the Operations Section. Individuals. A piece of equipment and its personnel complement. A crew or team of individuals with an identified supervisor.
Situation Unit:	Assigned to Planning Section. Collects and analyzes information on the current situation. Prepares situation displays and situation summaries. Develops maps and projections.
Staging Areas	That location where incident personnel and equipment are assigned on an immediately available status.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)	A set of guidelines that are routinely followed in order to respond to specific situations
State Coordinating Officer (SCO)	Person appointed by the governor to serve as the on-scene representative for the Division of Emergency Management and to work in concert with the Federal Coordinating Officer in administering state and federal assistance to disaster victims.
State Disaster Emergency	The period beginning with a declaration by the governor that a disaster exists and ending six months later unless rescinded or extended by the governor.
State Emergency Management Plan	State plan designated specifically for state-level response to emergencies or major disasters that sets forth implementing federal disaster assistance.
State of Disaster	Executive order or proclamation that describes the nature of the disaster and designates the area threatened and the conditions that have brought about the state of disaster and date or termination.
Strike Teams	Assigned to the Operations Section. A set number of resources of the same kind and type with common communications operating under the direct supervision of a Strike Team Leader. Highly effective management units. The foreknowledge that all elements have the same capability and the knowledge of how many will be applied allows for better planning, ordering, utilization and management.
Supply Unit	Assigned to the Support Branch of the Logistics Section. Assists in determining the type and amount of supplies needed to support the incident. Orders, receives, stores and distributes supplies. Services nonexpendable equipment. Places all resource orders. Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment.
Support Branch	Assigned to the Logistics Section. Supply Unit Facilities Unit Ground Support Unit
Task Force	Assigned to the Operations Section. A combination of mixed resources with common communications operating under the direct supervision of leader. Can be versatile combinations of resources and their use is encouraged. The combining of resources into task forces allows for several resource elements to be managed under one individual's supervision, thus lessening the span of control of the supervisor.
Task Sheets	Task sheets are designed for each ICS position and provide a checklist of "to do items" within a timeframe.
Temporary Assembly Area (TAA)	A temporary assembly area to be used by personnel who are displaced for an hour or more due to conditions that affect select buildings.
Time Unit	Assigned to the Finance Section. The Time Unit is responsible for incident personnel time recording.
Unit Log	Activity log describing chronology of events, incoming and outgoing messages and other pertinent information for records relating to incident, as well as post-incident evaluation.
Unified Command	In ICS, Unified Command is a unified team effort that allows all agencies with responsibility for the incident, either geographical or functional, to manage an incident by establishing a common set of incident objectives and strategies. This is accomplished without losing or abdicating agency authority, responsibility or accountability. The sharing of Incident Command equally between/among two or more departments or agencies, while each party retains its vested authority. Unified Command can occur at the Incident Command or EOC levels.
Utility	Structures of systems of energy, power or water storage, supply and distribution, sewage collection and treatment, telephone, transportation or other similar public service.
Volunteer Organization	Any chartered or otherwise duly recognized tax-exempt local, state or national organization that has provided or may provide services to state or local governments or individuals in a disaster or emergency.
Vulnerability	Susceptibility to injury or damage from hazards.
Warning	Notification to government agencies of impending dangerous situations and notification to the public, through EAS, including actions that can be taken to prevent or mitigate damage or injury.
Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)	(A) Any destructive device (as defined in section 921 of this title, (which reads) any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one quarter ounce, mine or device similar to the above; (B) poison gas; (C) any weapon involving a disease organism; or (D) any weapon that is designed to release radiation or radioactivity at a level dangerous to human life (18 U.S.C., section 2322a).