1. Introduction
1.1 This chapter of Preparing Scotland covers:
- objectives for a combined response;
- the generic management framework for emergency response in Scotland;
- using and adapting the management framework in specific circumstances;
- the management of the emergency services response to emergencies; and
- the management of public communications and media liaison.
1.2 The chapter contains annexes referring to key definitions, the stages of emergency response and roles and responsibilities of key responders.
1.3 Preparing Scotland is concerned with building Scotland's resilience to any emergency. This guidance seeks to describe generic response arrangements that are sufficiently flexible and adaptable to allow for effective management of a wide range of types and scales of emergency. The arrangements described will provide a basis for specific plans if necessary. The emergency services and other responders may use the term "major incident" to describe their response to emergencies. This guidance uses the term "emergency" throughout.
1.4 An emergency is likely to involve a large number of responders carrying out their activities in difficult circumstances. It is vitally important for that activity to be co-ordinated and for the total response to be managed effectively to facilitate a rapid recovery.
1.5 This chapter describes how the flexibility and adaptability of nationally agreed management structures can achieve a co-ordinated and effective multi-agency response to any emergency. It shows how Integrated Emergency Management, supported by the emergency services' principles of command and control, achieves a combined and co-ordinated response in a variety of circumstances. The framework will support the specialist activities and management arrangements established for specific emergencies (for example chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear ( CBRN) events, pandemic flu or major transport accidents).