If possible, environmental public health agencies should use these other entities to collect damage information for their own purposes. Sharing assess - ment information should be a preplanning topic to determine who is collecting what information and how it can (or can’t) be utilized by environmental public health. It is desirable where data can later be shared to expedite evaluation and progression of decisions and work that needs to be performed. With data systems and corresponding GIS-based platforms, information can be downloaded and integrated into your own data and dashboard systems. This is an area to discuss with internal IT staff and the coop - erating agencies that might be involved. GIS Mapping Today, smartphones are loaded with apps that collect the necessary information with much of the redundant information hand-selected from scroll- down choices, photographs taken and stored auto - matically, and locations documented by latitude/ longitude readings from software. Once entered, this information automatically populates an on-line database for review and posting through a web- based dashboard. These could then be presented as maps with specific locations colors coded according to the damage and background informa - tion or specific conditions found at the location. Use of this type of technology and the ability of maps to overlay specific information such as topography, location of facilities, schools, institu - tions, and many other features found in common mapping apps has advanced reporting and status information in real time. In addition, hazardous materials business information can be overlain so those facilities can be assessed and emergency
efforts initiated. Documentation in the field with cell phones will often eliminate the need to return to base camps for data entry and uploading of information into the program of choice. Most larger jurisdictions have this capacity in spe - cific departments and environmental public health staff should determine if they can justify obtaining such technology and supporting it long-term. In the absence of a GIS/mapping tools at the local level, environmental public health staff can ask state agencies how they might be able to assist in using this technology in the future. For example, several state hazardous materials/waste or solid waste entities have these tools available, which can then be applied at the local level in an emergency situation. Communication Communication is a critical component during and after a wildfire. The audience or intended receiver of information determines the complexity, details, and types of communications that should be con - sidered. All communication should be concise, clear and to the point. Some of the concerns during a wildfire might include: • Impacts to communication infrastructure and equipment such as cell towers, power lines, and telephone poles. • Overload of communications networks and systems that make it difficult to get critical information to those who need it. • Limited access to information that is timely and accurate. It is important to have communication plans includ - ing alternative communications channels such as radios, satellite phones, or ham radio operators. Some examples to consider: • Communications between staff and management can be handled with the issuance of cell phones when reception is good. In many situations, especially wildland fires, reception may be a challenge and staff must go to locations where reception is good. • Two-way radio communications might also be used if infrastructure exists within the organization. • Communications with the community impacted by a wildfire is extremely important and needs to be thought through before the event occurs. It is vital to coordinate with your public information office to ensure you can get word to the public regarding evacuations, boil water advisories,
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