This week, the Florida Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) Department is conducting training exercises to strengthen its disaster response capabilities.
In Tampa, 14 participants are undergoing a three-day training at the FLA EDS Warehouse and Command Center. The program covers base camp operations, equipment specifications, and Base Camp Coordinator preparation. In addition to classroom instruction, participants receive hands-on training with EDS equipment, including setup, operation, and demobilization of a base camp. The training concludes with a review of lessons learned.
Florida Southern Baptist Disaster Relief teams are also participating, using the EDS Field Kitchen to prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all attendees—giving their personnel valuable experience operating in field conditions.
Simultaneously, in Tallahassee at the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC), Assistant EDS Director and State Liaison Deanna Roush is taking part in a three-day Multi-Incident Statewide Exercise led by the Florida Division of Emergency Management. The goal is to improve coordination and response to large-scale emergencies. On the first day, the Tallahassee Corps prepared and served over 300 meals for exercise participants.
Training and exercises like these are essential to disaster preparedness. By bringing together teams from multiple levels and agencies, Florida EDS ensures it remains ready to meet the needs of disaster survivors statewide.
