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When Bad Weather Hits, NNMC will be Ready

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS091115-03
Release Date: 11/15/2009 8:22:00 PM

By Sarah Fortney, National Naval Medical Center Public Affairs

BETHESDA, Md. (NNS) -- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently announced its 2009 Winter Outlook, forecasting a harsh season ahead for much of the East Coast. When bad weather strikes, the National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) will be ready.

"NNMC leadership works throughout the year to make sure plans are in place for drastic weather, regardless of the season," said Chris Gillette, Bethesda's command emergency manager.

A key factor in preparedness is pre-planning and making sure there is collaboration between all departments. In order for NNMC to operate 24/7 and maintain its health care mission, emergency personnel and departments must be identified.

This is the time of year when the command begins to determine who must report to work and which areas must remain open during inclement weather.

"We have to be prepared," Gillette said. "We have to be ready to staff this hospital."

Another important part of planning for inclement weather is awareness. Making sure staff members know what resources are available before and during inclement weather, including shelters and transportation.

"Commuters can sign up online to receive e-mail updates about the particular route they take to work using either the Metro, MARC transportation, the Virginia Railway Express or Montgomery County's Ride On and Transit Services," said Jeff Miller, NNMC's transportation manager.

When severe weather is on the horizon, NNMC's Facilities Management has a contract in place to ensure materials, trucks, plows and workers are available to address the potential hazards. In addition, the snow removal plan is reviewed annually. Facilities Management prioritizes roadway and walkway clearance to minimize impact to patients, staff and visitors.

In the event of a wide-spread emergency, staff members can use the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS) as a resource for information.

Through the Web site, www.navyfamily.navy.mil, Navy personnel can update their contact information and account for staff and family members.

NFAAS collects information for Navy personnel through Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS).