The purpose of the tabletop exercises is to test the viability of the District’s Community Emergency Response Cluster Plan. The goal is to establish a clear, mutual understanding of the expectations for future operations in order to promote a cohesive and well-coordinated response to man-made or natural hazards among community leaders, volunteer groups, and citizens, along with traditional first responders.

The exercises are intended to focus on the overall response, decision-making process, and coordination and communications with community members. It is not a test of detailed response procedures. The exercises are intended to emphasize communication, emergency response coordination, problem identification, and resolution. Citizens are encouraged to establish Emergency Preparedness Committees to work with DCEMA.

Upon completion of this exercise, you will be able to understand:

• The District government’s roles and responsibilities during an emergency
• What you, your family, and your community should be prepared to do during an emergency
• How you can organize your community during an emergency, so that you can coordinate and communicate more effectively with the District government and your neighbors
• How “neighbors can help neighbors” in preparing for and during an emergency
• The support the District government needs from you and your community during an emergency