Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1 and will last through November 30. According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, we are likely to have another above-normal season.

The NOAA’s updated statistics determine whether a season will be average relative to records. According to their statistics, an average hurricane season produces 14 named storms. Of those 14 named storms, 7 become hurricanes and 3 are considered major hurricanes.

NOAA acting administrator Ben Friedman said, “Although NOAA scientists don’t expect this season to be as busy as last year, it only takes one storm to devastate a community. The forecasters at the National Hurricane Center are well-prepared with significant upgrades to our computer models, emerging observation techniques, and the expertise to deliver the life-saving forecasts that we all depend on during this, and every, hurricane season.”

Last year’s hurricane season was record-breaking. And while this year is not expected to have the same intensity, it is a reminder that residents in potentially affected communities should be prepared.

One way many communities prepare is by getting ready to activate emergency operations centers at a moment’s notice.

Emergency operations centers during hurricane season

Throughout hurricane season, emergency operations centers (EOC) are at the ready to deal with the impacts of storms.

Locally based EOCs communicate with larger operations on a state and national level to coordinate efforts and share resources and information. EOCs also coordinate immediate response efforts to emergency situations, including not only events at the height of the storm but also incidents that occur as a result such as flooding and mudslides.

EOC design for effective operations

Before, during, and after hurricanes and other tropical storms, the emergency operations center plays a vital role, and its design is important. An EOC is the central hub for incident preparation and response. It must gather and share critical information, coordinate response initiatives, and manage personnel. There are certain design choices, such as a large video wall and ergonomic furniture and space design, that can help your EOC’s productivity.

With the use of a video wall system, operators can track and predict weather patterns and measure the potential impact of a storm. A centrally located video wall installation allows operators to view and collaborate on real-time information as it unfolds and quickly share data with all relevant parties.

The emergency operations center furniture solutions used in your EOC installation can also contribute to efficiency. Space design and furniture arrangements should facilitate coordination between operators and allow a clear view to the display wall for every person in the room. Additionally, the shifts during an emergency can be long and grueling. Furniture and video wall positions should be planned with ergonomics in mind so operators can work through emergencies without the added distraction of avoidable discomfort.

Constant’s emergency operations centers

At Constant, we know that public safety in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm can depend on an EOC running at peak efficiency. From EOC space design and ergonomic considerations to video wall systems and control room furniture, Constant Technologies provides you with what you need for a turnkey emergency operations center that is ready to be activated at a moment’s notice.

Constant’s emergency operations center furniture solutions are custom designed to maximize collaboration within an EOC environment but can also easily adapt to a classroom or training environment for use when the EOC is not activated. Our design team will help you determine the best layout as well as audiovisual technology rated for round-the-clock use.

With hurricane season beginning, it is time to ensure your EOC is ready. To take the important first step in your emergency operations center project, contact us today for a free design and budget consultation.

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