Fire and rescue operations survey : Loma Prieta earthquake.

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The Loma Prieta earthquake of November 17, 1989 provided a significant exercise of the California Fire Service and Rescue Emergency Mutual Aid Plan. Through this plan fire agencies provided both immediate need and long-term assistance to the nine counties affected. Because of the far reaching effects of this natural disaster, fire personnel often found themselves providing services or support not typical of traditional fire service roles. Office of Emergency Services, Fire and Rescue Division personnel prepared this survey in an effort to poll fire service agencies in the nine counties affected by the earthquake. The intent was to ask a menu of questions designed to ascertain the following: Effects of the quake on the existing fire service infrastructure and operational capability; impact on personnel and staffing; departmental development of priorities; impact on fire service and 911 communications; and lessons learned. Survey results provide a number of important learning points and can be utilised in planning and preparation for the next natural disaster occurences