The IAFC recommends that fire and EMS chiefs take precautions to prepare for possible supply chain interruptions.
According to press reports, Hurricane Helene resulted in the closing of medical supply manufacturing facilities due to storm damage. In addition to these closures, a recent strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association in 36 ports along the nation’s East Coast and Gulf Coast affects the combined capacity to manage as much as half of all U.S. trade volumes. West Coast dockworkers belong to a different union and aren't involved in the strike, but the effects could be felt at ports across the country.
The IAFC recommends that its members prepare for possible supply interruptions by taking the following steps:
- Maintain situational awareness of your inventory and stock of supplies.
- Identify alternate vendors in case of interruptions from your usual vendors.
- Stay aware of potential delays by contacting your vendors.
- Focus on securing essential needs and consumables such as medical supplies.
- Develop contingency plans for maintenance and repair of essential facilities, apparatus, and equipment to sustain operations and safety.
Many fire and EMS departments experienced supply shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic and may have plans for addressing the challenges of supply interruptions. The IAFC recommends that fire and EMS departments review and revise those plans as may be necessary.
During the COVID-19 supply chain shortages, the IAFC partnered with Amazon Business to provide IAFC members with a means to address these disruptions. Amazon Business is a marketplace that offers exclusive access to hundreds of millions of products for businesses and emergency services including First Responder Storefront and Public Safety line card. IAFC Members are eligible for a free Amazon Business Prime Membership.
To register for an Amazon Business account through your IAFC membership, please click on this link and enter your email address tied to your IAFC membership account. If you have trouble registering with Amazon Business, please contact Chief Jeff Dulin, IAFC staff, at jdulin@iafc.org.
Fire Chief Josh Waldo
IAFC President and Board Chair