39. The identification of workers and volunteers will be a problem; it will be difficult to determine who is working where and on what.

COMMENT:  Based upon my own experience in over 35 years in emergency and disaster work, I say: “Even under the best of conditions, and where there has been the most adequate planning and preparation possible, anticipate chaos and confusion during the first 24-72 hours in a disaster. Then there is always some “self-appointed expert” (who doesn’t have a clue as to what it’s really all about); spouting off about how everything was disorganized and mismanaged.  It’s a disaster...you idiot!  What did you expect?  Everything to run smoothly?  Go home and watch television.

Identification IS important.   Both official (e.g. - ID cards), and the other visible ID, (e.g - badge, cap, vest, jacket; and vehicle ID items such as visor cards, stickers, or magnetic signs.)  Identification materials should be fairly well standardized, at least within a particular jurisdiction.  But... it isn’t very “professional” to look like a walking patch and decal advertisement. Nor, does it instill much confidence in your ability to perform, if you look like you just returned from a HOBO convention!  It is OK (in my opinion) to show some “esprit d’corp” for your unit, by wearing matching caps, vests, or whatever. Wear clean and comfortable sturdy clothes and footwear, and bring a change of clothes with you.

Be sure your ID cards for any agencies with which you are serving are up-to-date.   (Your EC, ACS and/or RACES Officer will help you with this.) HOWEVER...no matter how much ID you have, if you are in an area where you are not authorized to be, or are running around acting like a jerk, you may be asked to leave.  EMCOMM (and other volunteers) typically are asked to respond to a staging area for “sign-in” and assignment.  (Your local plan may designate certain pre-assigned posts.  Be sure notify your team leader [EC, RO, etc.], when you have arrived at your post...and when “QRV”.)