Why Statewide Public Works Mutual Aid?

  • By definition, disasters are typically beyond our capability to handle without outside assistance.
  • Most disasters will also affect our neighboring communities.
  • As a first responder, Public Works will be involved in a disaster from the beginning of response until the end of recovery
  • Public Works manpower is limited , therefore mutual aid is needed earlier in an incident.
  • Public Works must be self-sufficient. They don’t always have the required resources to adequately respond.
  • You are on your own for the first 72 hours
  • Other 1st Responders have systems already in place

Federal Directives after 9/11

  • HSPD-5: Established the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and Incident Command System (ICS)
  • HSPD-8:   Expanded definition of 1st responders to include Public Works personnel

Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network is a Statewide Mutual Aid System for Public Works agencies in Illinois – members can be:

  • Municipal Public Works / Street Departments,
  • Townships  / Unit Road Districts,
  • County Highway Departments,
  • Water, and Wastewater Agencies/Districts
  • Park Districts
  • Any public agency performing a public works function

Mutual Aid can be used during disasters such as:

  • Tornadoes/Wind Storms
  • Earthquakes
  • Flooding
  • Infrastructure Failures
  • Terrorism Events

Benefits of IPWMAN

  • All public works related agencies can be members
  • Membership sets priorities and controls system
  • Network maintains current, readily accessible listing of available resources
  • Recognized by IEMA and other statewide mutual aid organizations
  • Comprehensive, public works driven and led training
  • Access to assets from all corners of Illinois
  • First 5 days support provided at no cost
  • Standardized operating procedures for disaster response
  • Quick and direct access to assets
  • One agreement, simplified reimbursement

Mutual Aid Agreement Highlights

  • Authority is provided under Illinois law
  • One standard agreement signed by each member agency.
  • Self renewing after first year with payment of dues
  • Can cancel at any time
  • No obligation to respond
  • 12 hour minimum response guarantee
  • Can recall resources at any time after first 12 hours
  • Reimbursement after 5 days
  • Non Exclusive