Unit 7: Task Force Demobilization & After Action Considerations

Unit Goal Upon completion of this unit, participants will be able to describe the task force demobilization process and after action activities.

Unit Objectives  Discuss demobilization considerations and responsibilities.  Review the After-Action process including on scene debriefing and formal after action reporting.  Discuss the needs for personnel and equipment rehabilitation.

Demobilization TF begins to demobilize when directed by the IC/IMT but d emobilization planning should begin before that Actual demobilization occurs when: ○ Assigned objectives have been met ○ Task force is being reassigned or ○ Task force rotates out and is replaced by another TF

Demobilization Meeting  Who attends? At least 2 from the TF  Come prepared and take notes  Clarify the demobilization process - Identify when and how the task force will leave the incident  Identify those tasks that need to be accomplished prior to leaving the incident  Discuss personnel and equipment rehab needs  ICS 221 may be used by IC/IMT

Demobilization Timeline  Demobilization planning ensures effectiveness and efficiency  May brief the entire task force or just managers/squad officers  Maintain communications with the Sponsoring and Participating Agencies  Plans & Logistics Managers can coordinate the process

Demobilization Considerations Remaining mission assignments Dismantle the BoO and police the area Notify the Food Unit (or Logistics) of your last meal Ensure drivers are rested Prepare vehicles and equipment for departure Finalize travel plans (routes, stops, etc.) ○ Don’t forget to plan the trip home Conduct a Phase I debriefing (Hot-wash)

Demobilization Considerations (cont) Return or retrieve any loaned items ○ Equipment/Supplies ○ Radios, cell phones, etc. Complete and submit required reports and documentation – Coordinate with the Incident Planning Section Lost or damaged equipment reports Inspect facilities that were used by the TF Consider the need for Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)

Tailboard Briefing Be Brief and Be Positive Hot Wash

Phase I Debriefing – “Hot-wash”  TFL usually facilitates the debriefing  Review all task force operations  Consider: ○ Challenges ○ Key Actions ○ Significant Impediments ○ Lessons Learned  After-Action Debriefing Forms or Checklist

Homecoming Considerations Ensure the Sponsoring and Participating Agencies are aware of demobilization timelines Welcome – families, media, elected officials Consider additional support needs at home Establish protocols for return home – back to POD or home jurisdiction Distribute workload – equipment rehab that wasn’t completed on scene Consider the need for post-mission medical screening Considerations prior to assuming regular shift rotation

Phase II – After-Action Debriefing

Debriefing Format  Initiated by the Task Force Leader or Program Manager  Can be facilitated by the Plans Manager  May be performed in small groups by function prior to full task force debriefing  Ground rules Positive and constructive Clearly define problems and solutions Document comments

Phase II After-Action Debriefing  Review all facets of mission Mobilization Operations Demobilization  Conducted shortly after return home - Should involve all TF members  Identify accomplishments and problems encountered  Identify lessons learned  Outline improvements for future mobilizations and operations  Identify procedures that should be altered or improved

Debriefing Contents  Safety concerns  Management and coordination issues  Information flow Among task forces Within TF - squads IC/IMT  -  TF

Debriefing Contents (cont)  Communications issues  Effectiveness of planning  Logistics/Supply issues  Medical issues  Overall performance  Personnel evaluations  ICS 225

Written After Action Reports  Specific to TF or Participating Agencies Used for internal corrective actions Used for developing future training or equipment needs  Specific to State Response System To enhance future activities To improve the overall response system