Emergency Medical Services Operations Center Working Environment

The EMS Authority's conference room has been specially equipped to serve as the EMSOC. Supplies and communications equipment are stored in the EMSOC. Projection equipment, screens, and large boards are available for information recording and sharing. A television set with commercial cable provides access to CNN and other news stations. A radio area with computers and other necessary equipment can be quickly set up. The physical environment is pleasant and, since the staff use their normal working areas, familiar. EMSA staff have effectively responded to numerous natural and man made disasters including the Loma Prieta and Whittier earthquakes, and the Cantara hazardous materials train derailment. The apparent level of stress and tension among staff members was higher for this event than for natural events. This increased level of stress was generated in several ways. Television provided a constant flow of images showing fires, looting, riots, the Rodney King and Reginald Denney beatings, and interviews with angry upset people blaming various ethnic groups for the problem. Information from OES' SOC and LAEMSA described casualties and law enforcement activities. Concern was expressed for staff in the field near to areas where civil disturbances were beginning to occur (Oakland and San Francisco). They were recalled, experiencing delays as they followed detours established by police. During the evening hours media and OES SOC reports indicated that there might be local problems. This caused staff to fear for their own safety at the EMSOC and going to and from it. There was also concern for their own families particularly if they lived in or close to areas that might have problems. Possible additional reasons for the elevated stress level are identified in the discussion section below. A critical stress debriefing session was held for staff who wanted to participate several weeks later. It was difficult to identify a psychologist experienced in debriefing administrative personnel. Most had experience working with first responders. Some staff members who wanted to attend couldn't because of scheduling conflicts. Some staff with ethnically mixed families reported a brief increase in stress, and felt that it was related to their job and the civil disturbance. Food and day care were important staff response issues. During the day, food and other services were available from local vendors with staff observing a normal schedule. Thursday night arrangements were made to have pizzas, soft drinks, and fruit brought in. Child care became a problem on Thursday. A State operated day care center located close to the capital closed due to a concern that violent demonstrations might take place in the area. EMSA staff brought their children to the office where they were cared for the remainder of the day.

Medical Care for the Injured

Continue to Coordination with the Los Angeles Emergency Medical Services Agency

Return to the Table of Contents