GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The City of Gatlinburg conducted a full-scale Emergency Operations Center (EOC) drill on Wednesday, October 29, as part of its ongoing commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness. The exercise, which simulated multiple structure fires evolving into a wildland fire scenario, brought together representatives from all 15 City departments.
Led by Gatlinburg Safety Director Jason Owens, the drill simulated a nighttime incident involving high winds and rapidly spreading fires throughout the Gatlinburg area. The exercise provided each department the opportunity to coordinate their response, test communication protocols, and evaluate emergency decision-making processes in a controlled environment.
“The safety and security of Gatlinburg’s citizens and visitors remain the City’s highest priority,” said City Manager Greg Patterson. “These types of drills are invaluable in helping our departments refine procedures, identify areas for improvement, and strengthen our collective readiness to respond to any emergency.”
Throughout the exercise, department heads worked through realistic scenarios involving evacuations, resource coordination, and crisis communications. The simulation emphasized interdepartmental collaboration and strategic problem-solving to enhance overall emergency response capabilities.
“Conducting a citywide drill like this allows our departments to collaborate, share critical information, and streamline efforts to reduce potential risks,” Patterson added. “By practicing together, we can ensure that when a real emergency occurs, our team is prepared to respond swiftly and effectively to protect our community.”
As part of the exercise, the City also reviewed its emergency communication systems, including the use of Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (iPAWS) notifications, CodeRed alerts, City app notifications, social media updates, the 1680 AM Emergency Radio, and the City’s network of 10 outdoor emergency alert sirens. These sirens are capable of issuing both audible alerts and verbal instructions to help keep residents and visitors informed during an emergency.
Residents and visitors can sign up to receive CodeRED emergency alerts for Sevier County by visiting the Sevier County Emergency Management Agency website at sevierema.org. Additionally, the City of Gatlinburg offers a free mobile app, available for download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store by searching “City of Gatlinburg.”
For the latest updates from the City of Gatlinburg, visit GatlinburgTN.gov or visit the City’s Social Media pages on Facebook and X. Individuals can also keep up with the latest from the City of Gatlinburg by downloading the City’s Mobile App on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store by searching for “City of Gatlinburg”
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