Collaboration between Weskus Disaster Management, Provincial Traffic, and SAPS into a centralised coordination node is paying dividends and is a shining example of what can happen when you structure key services behind the needs of the community. Weskus Disaster Management’s Franquin Petersen shares success stories.
One notable success is faster response times to emergencies such as road accidents or natural disasters. Our integrated communication systems and shared protocols have accelerated the dispatching of resources, enabling quicker arrival of medical, traffic and law enforcement personnel. Greater efficiencies gained have saved lives.
Another success story is improved reporting and information sharing. By working together, real-time reporting has ensured that all the agencies enjoy access to critical data which has resulted in informed decision-making and quicker problem-solving, both vital during a crisis. The benefits extend to joint debriefings after incidents which has helped us to refine operational strategies, and promote continuous improvement to emergency responses.
There are areas where we can still improve such as real-time reallocation of resources, enhancing inter-agency communication systems, and working together in engaging the community on how to respond to emergencies. But overall, in just a year or so, I am very happy with our progress, and we have already made an important difference in our region. It is also a lesson of what can be achieved when good people work together and share the common purpose of serving their community.
Franquin Petersen
HOC – DMC.
10177 (022) 433 8700
Is the Emergency number for the Fire and Medical Services within the West Coast District.
Is die Noodnommer vir die Brandweer- en Mediesedienste binne die Weskus Distrik.
