SEATTLE - The Port of Olympia marine terminal in Washington state has recently deployed new technology to facilitate pre-planning for emergencies and to assist first responders during a wide variety of emergency situations. The Rapid Responder system, developed by Seattle-based Prepared Response, Inc., will provide emergency responders with instant access to critical information about the Port's 60-acre terminal facility. The Port will be the first marine terminal in the U.S. to use the Rapid Responder software.
The Rapid Responder system runs on laptop computers and mobile data terminals allowing first responders to instantly access more than 300 data points, including tactical response plans, satellite and geospatial imagery, exterior and interior photos, floor plans, utility shut-off locations, and hazardous chemical inventories and locations. As part of this implementation, Olympia Police and Fire, as well as the Thurston County Sheriff's Office collaborated with Port officials to create new and integrated response plans for the port. All of this information now securely resides in the Port's Rapid Responder system and is accessible by all authorized first responders via the Web, laptop computers, and portable USB storage devices.
"The Port has always been dedicated to the safety of our longshoremen, customers, staff and cargo," said Ed Galligan, Port Executive Director. "We work closely with our security personnel and local first responders to ensure a safe and secure facility. This crisis management system will enable emergency personnel to respond quicker, safer, and in a coordinated manner."
"We are very excited about deploying the Rapid Responder system with the Port of Olympia," said Jim Finnell, president and CEO of Prepared Response. "Olympia will be the first port in the U.S. to utilize this type of emergency response solution and demonstrates the Port's commitment to crisis management as part of Washington state's critical infrastructure."
Prepared Response is online at www.preparedresponse.com.
