Busch Gardens and Adventure Island

Disaster Planning

Mariana Frey

 

I. Introduction

Anheuser-Busch Theme Parks, offering a variety of entertainment experiences, encounter diverse challenges in the preparation of handling emergency incidents; such as bomb threats, hurricanes, tornadoes, animal escape, power failure and fire. Busch Gardens and Adventure Island, BGT/AI, subscribe to a continuous improvement philosophy that allows the flexibility to customize and change emergency standard operating procedures to ensure the safety of our guests, employees and animals. The topics of discussion in relation to BGT/AI emergency planning are organization, operations center, communication, medical management, animal preparation, security, responding agencies, media relations, recovery plan and self-evaluation.

II. Learning Objectives

The attendee will acquire a general understanding of the BGT/AI emergency plans.

The attendee will be able to discuss unique aspects of theme park emergency planning.

Attendees will be able to discuss details regarding the preparation and securing of animals and communication tools that facilitate evacuations.

III. Discussion

The BGT/AI emergency plans include all the basic considerations outlined in the Federal Emergency Management Guidelines. BGT/AI have developed a method for establishing a team of key staff to organize and prepare for emergencies as well as manage the operations and communications center. Communication is varied to ensure effectiveness to multi-lingual guests and staff, consisting of a parkwide announcement system, radios, telephone trees and walking announcers. Two medical facilities, staffed with Registered Nurses and Emergency Medical Technicians, provide first aid for minor injuries/illnesses and coordinate the transport of more serious injuries/illnesses to the Hospital emergency room or Walk-in Clinic. Animal preparation involves moving dangerous Class 1 and 2 animals into holding areas that meet the State regulations. Curators and zookeepers are specifically trained in animal behavior and equipment operation. The Veterinarians are trained for immobilizing animals as necessary. Hoof stock are the most vulnerable to natural disasters as they roam in open areas that are secured by double fencing. Security staff, trained in crowd control, are equipped to help the operations staff with evacuation and communication to our guests and staff. BGT/AI have worked closely with the City of Tampa to facilitate ease of directing emergency equipment and personnel on property. Media Relations provides 24 hour coverage to communicate accurate information to the public. All areas of the park are represented and participate in the recovery operation allowing for more accurate assessment of damage and loss. Finally, a post recovery meeting is conducted to critic and complete a "self-assessment" for continuous improvement.

IV. Summary

Busch Gardens and Adventure Island are theme parks that provide a diversity of entertainment experiences. In order to provide these experiences for our guests, many plans are in place to accommodate a variety of emergency situations. With the uniqueness of a theme park caring for over 2500 animals, maintaining over 25 rides including four roller coasters and showcasing four major shows where hundreds and thousands of people gather each day, it is essential to plan to ensure the well being of the guests, staff and animals. Our plans are a "common sense" approach that allows for ease of use and change.

V. References

"Emergency Response Planning, A Management Guide," Marsh & McLennan Protection Consultants

"Disaster Planning Guide for Business and Industry," Federal Emergency Management Agency

"Means of Egress," OSHA 29 CFR, Subpart E

"Fire Protection," OSHA 29 CFR, Subpart L

"Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response," OSHA 29 CFR

"Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know," EPA SARA Title III

"Life Safety Code," National Fire Protection Association

 

 

Contact:

Mariana Frey, Director of Environmental Health & Safety

Busch Entertainment Corporation

P.O. Box 9158

Tampa, Florida 33674-9158

Phone: (813) 987-5306 Fax: (813) 987-5111

E-mail: mariana.frey@anheuser-busch.com