HVA's Mobile Command Post is available to public safety agencies or hospitals, in cases of a major disaster or event.  The vehicle is 40' in length and contains a communications room, a conference room with tables and whiteboards capable of holding 12 participants. 

 

The vehicle also has a lavatory and a small all-purpose area which can be used for a variety of functions including shelter, rest, and preparing refreshments or food.  The right side of the vehicle has a large retractable awning.

 

The vehicle is self contained.  It is powered by a large diesel generator and is heated and air-conditioned.  It has three-way telephone capability (cellular, internet phone, and land-line capability) and the conference room is equipped with satellite television.  The communications area has a two-position radio console and also has a Codespear system capable of patching radios for on-site communications interoperability.  The vehicle is capable of communicating on the Michigan Public Safety Communications System (MPSCS) and on other radio bands.

 

The vehicle carries a water supply, coffee and other refreshments, as well as a small amount of first aid equipment and supplies (Note:  First aid and disaster supplies in large quantities are available from HVA in other response vehicles and trailers).

 

This vehicle is based at HVA Headquarters in Ann Arbor and can be enroute within 30 minutes of a request from a public safety agency or hospital.  A member of the HVA staff will be assigned to the vehicle to assist you with vehicle set up and use during the duration of the event.  To request our Mobile Command Post, contact the HVA Communications Supervisor through your direct telephone line to our dispatch center, or call:

 

1-800-872-1111

 

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions:

 

What are common uses for the Mobile Command Post?

 

The vehicle is used at major events where public safety personnel will be on-scene for an extended period of time.  Examples include a large fire or a barricaded gunmen.  In inclement weather, the vehicle can be used by public safety personnel to warm up (or cool down, in summer).  The vehicle also has a restroom, which can be helpful in rural areas with no facilities nearby.  The vehicle's meeting room can be used by community leaders for on-site decision making. 

Who maintains the vehicle?

 

The vehicle is maintained by HVA Central Operations Division.  For a tour of the vehicle, or to discuss use of the vehicle in more detail, please contact Roger Simpson, Vice President for Central Operations at 734-477-6363. 

Is there a charge to use the vehicle?

 

No.

How far will the vehicle go?

 

The vehicle is available to any public safety agency or hospital in southeast or south central Michigan. 

What else does HVA use this vehicle for?

 

The Mobile Command Post is utilized for dispatching and as a base for crew operations at University of Michigan football games, and also major events such as the Ypsilanti Heritage Festival. 

What did the vehicle cost?  Who paid for it?

 

The value of the vehicle is about $240,000 and was funded by the Huron Valley Ambulance Board of Trustees.  The communications console equipment in the vehicle was funded under a Homeland Security grant received from the Southeast Michigan Urban Area Security Initative Board.