T
he University of Houston Office of Emergency Management department recently hosted
two tabletop exercises designed to challenge departments across campus to think critically
about emergency response and recovery. An exercise is a single component of the Homeland
Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP), which is a federal program designed
to identify and improve aspects of preparedness, response, and recovery on campus.
A tabletop exercise is designed to be a thorough discussion of a simulated disaster
scenario.
OEM facilitated a tabletop exercise in August, prior to football season, involving the participation of key UH football emergency response and game-day management personnel. The second exercise facilitated by OEM, was held in early September, engaging various departments on campus, including Student Housing and Residential Life, Campus Recreation, UH’s Police Department and Facilities/Construction Management.
In both exercises, personnel engaged in problem-solving discussions, filling potential gaps, enhancing procedures, and strengthening coordination across the university. The end result helps develop and enhance the University’s emergency preparedness and planning.
By facilitating these tabletop exercises, OEM continues to reinforce a vital concept of their core mission: preparing the UH community to face any hazard with strategic plans, strong communication, and increased resilience.