This week, Columbia County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) reintroduced their refurbished and modernized version of the Mobile Operations Center (MOC). Led by the combined efforts of Columbia County Fire Rescue (CCFR), Columbia CountySheriff’s Office (CCSO), Columbia County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and Fleet Services, the Mobile Operations Center received a major overhaul to the functionality and appearance of the vehicle.

The MOC was originally procured with funding from the Homeland Security Grant in 2004. However, in recent years, utilization of the MOC has increased drastically. It has served as a mobile command center in real world emergencies, simulated scenarios during Operations Convergent Response in Perry, Georgia; large structure fires that needed 24+ hour command and control; and in support of Sheriff’s Office operations. By increasing the use of the MOC, it became apparent that upgrades were needed to support emergency command and control operations.

Vital to the project’s success, officers from CCFR and CCSO entirely designed the new layout by mirroring the capabilities within the 911 Dispatch Center and EOC for rapid deployment necessities. Doing so creates a more realistic environment allowing emergency responders the ability to work ensuring the required appropriate technologies and utilities are in place. With the upgrade, approximately a dozen or more decision makers can occupy the conference space inside the MOC as the situation dictates while operations continue in the dispatch area.

In addition to an enlarged conference space, the team upgraded the phone system and increased technological and communication capabilities to support all partner agencies within the CSRA as well as state and federal entities. This encompassed a complete overhaul and electrical upgrades to include new wiring and panel boxes. The modernized and enhanced technology provides multi-connections with failover for multi-carriers (such as AT&T and Verizon) allowing all technology to automatically switch over so there is no loss in communication in the event that there is a lost signal or poor connectivity. By improving technology and communication, CCFR, CCSO, and EMA can assume operations of control and support daily command functions during an emergency situation. Lastly, Columbia County Fleet Services repaired and replaced aging mechanical and structural needs within the MOC.

CCFR Assistant Chief of Administration Brent Willis stated, “Working on the MOC gave us an opportunity to collaborate as a team and build the bond between the Sheriff’s Office and Fire Rescue teams. This gives us the capability to function in the field as it does from the station environment. I would like to personally thank County Administration for their continuous support.”

“I’m proud of the team who brought their experience from the field and worked together to design a more functional and technologically advanced Mobile Operations Center. They then rolled up their sleeves and made the design a reality. Thanks especially to the dedication and sweat equity of members of Columbia County Fire Rescue, Fleet Services, and of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. Through their hard work and dedication the Mobile Operations Center is set to support and enhance public safety efforts in emergency incidents, special events or daily operations as needed for years to come. Job well done”, said Major Sharif Chochol with CCSO.