Generate a Plan
The information below (including resources on the right) provides a basic step-by-step process for how to generate an emergency plan for water utilities. This information is applicable to CWS subject to the state regulation 18 AAC 80.055 as well as NTNC and TNC systems who wish (but are not required) to generate an emergency plan.
Step 1: Identify Vulnerabilities
Vulnerability Assessments help a PWS evaluate their susceptibility to potential threats and identify corrective actions that can reduce the impact of the threats.
- Vulnerability Self- Assessment Tool (VSAT)
- Power Resilience Guide
- State Vulnerability Assessment (MS Word)
Step 2: Make a Plan
Once you have identified vulnerabilities within/around your water system, develop a document that describes the actions a PWS would take in response to various major incidents that could impact the system’s ability to provide safe drinking water. Being prepared gives everyone the best possible chance of avoiding significant problems if an incident occurs.
- Planning for an Emergency Drinking Water Supply
- Planning for Backup Power (PDF)
- All-Hazards Planning for Water Sector (PDF)
- Emergency Response Plan Guidance document for Small and Medium Community Water Systems (PDF)
- Natural Disasters/Intentional Acts web page
Helpful Tools
- Community-Based Water Resiliency Electronic Tool (CBWR)
- Hazard Mitigation for Natural Disasters Guide
- Planning for your Personal Emergency Water Supply (PDF)
Templates
Step 3: Train on Your Plan
Think of your emergency plan as a “living” document that you can update periodically, if there are major changes to your PWS facility assets or personnel, staff roles and responsibilities, or any major changes in your internal or external contacts.
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