We were faced with this same question several years ago and restricted by $$$ constraints. We opted for a "used" 28 foot camping trailer that we gutted and remodeled the interior layout.
In the aft end (we removed the bathroom) we have our communications area.
Future plans are to install a Onan generator in the space that the "grey water" tank occupied.
Note:Try to keep the radio gang under control ... they will try to put a radio in every orifice ... the command post doesn't need to be a big radio box. In some areas of the county (were we cannot use firehouse or school house) we need to run all operations out of the trailer. Communications, Plans, and Ops ... this can get a little "nuts" if there is a radio in every corner and the comm center feels a stange need to listen to "every" feqency during a search.
The kitchen area remains (the Sgt won this argument but we are chipping away on him), it is nice to have a fresh water source.
We are heated (propane) and air conditioned.
A lot of area is given up to maps storage "stored flat" (our county covers 26 - 7.5 minute USGS topos). We also carry an entire set of county lot line maps (6 lot lines to each 7.5 min topo) this will change as we continue to computerize our mapping system. Then this space will be given up to computer stations for Plans and Ops.
We have a nice map table area to work on and plenty of storage for med/rescue supplies. We also carry our copy machine and supplies.
Advantages of a trailer vs. a big RV rig ... engine trouble doesn't shut us down ... we just hook up to another tow vehicle. Additional plus is the tow vehicle is then available at the search for transport and runs for addition equipment as needed.
Disadvantages are : From the outside we look just like a camping trailer. Stars, antennae, and signs don't seem to matter and we get teased a lot about "going camping"
The trailer will serve us well for another 10 years with a constant interior upgrading. I dare say that if we were to replace our Mobile Command Post today and we had no budget constraints, we'd be hard pressed to change to a RV type CP.
|
Our's 
Mobile Command Posts... Describe yours, Please !
(Robert Long)
Questions about your command post.
by RLONG@uoft02.utoledo.edu, 1997, May 10
