By Betsy Finklea
Emergency operations was the topic of the Dillon County Local Emergency Planning Committee meeting on March 21st.
The guest speakers were Jim Grant and Gregory Haselden on S.C. Emergency Management Division.

Disaster Preparedness Director Moses Heyward said they were trying to work on a better way to handle disasters in Dillon County such as Hurricane Matthew. One person was killed in Dillon County during the hurricane. E-911 Director Clarence “Sonny” McRae said 911 received over 1,000 calls during one 12-hour shift due to the hurricane.

Michelle Bethea of Disaster Preparedness read the names of several people who gave extra effort during the hurricane.
Jim Grant discussed the purpose of an Emergency Operations Center (EOC). He said it has two functions: information and logistical support (resource requests). He said the EOC makes sure everyone has situational awareness so they can work together as a team. They also know how to reach out and get additional resources to meet the need of the community.

Greg Haselden added that the EOC also plans for the next day. He reviewed the operations organization chart and the duties.
He said the EOC needs “doers” —people who can plan and make decisions. After the presentation and questions and comments, the group enjoyed lunch.
The group’s next meeting is on May 25th.