Fatal Train Collision Kelso, Washington

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Fatal Train CollisionKelso, Washington

• 11 November 1993
• 0025 hours
• I-5 S/B near MP 36

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Kelso Train Fatality

• Stopped all N S train traffic (W Wash)
• Stopped all traffic southbound I-5
• Quickly backed up NB traffic
• Major issues included fatalities and potential
  chemical / Haz-Mat challenges
• Train cars blocking two lanes SB

3
26 Agencies Involved

• 9 Fire Dept Districts
• EMS
• WSP
• Cowlitz SO
• Kelso PD
• Kalama PD
• Longview PD
• BNSF Police

• DOT
• ODOT
• State DEM
• USCG
• Columbia Co OR
• Self-dispatched help

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Why most things went well

• Personnel previously trained in ICS
• Public Safety agencies had others frequencies
• Command established from the start
• Comm Plan established immediately modified as
  incident grew
• Later resources moved into ICS organization
• Worked with the Media

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Communications Plan

• After taking command, IC made Comm decision and
  communicated it.
• As incident grew, Comm Plan was adjusted to meet
  needs.
• Responders without local TX were given radios or
  a partner
• Sheriffs Comm Van deployed
  with Dispatcher

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Communications Plan (cont)

• Three different frequencies used
• Allowed for normal business to occur around the
  county on other frequencies

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Lessons Learned..

• Have a Plan esp. Communications
• Train on the Plan continual
• Work the Plan even partially if appropriate
• Emergency Responders may not be able to talk with
  each other NEVER Assume
• Collaboration works!

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Conclusion

• Plan now - Communicate that Plan
• You CAN save time, money, and most
  importantly.LIVES!
• Invest in Public Safety Communications
  ..So That Others May Live.
• An imperfect plan today is better than an
  perfect plan tomorrow. General George Patton