
PFA Team: Scope of Practice
Mission
To respond efficiently and compassionately to individuals experiencing emotional distress during a disaster as well as to cultivate resilience and facilitate recovery in the aftermath of any emergency.
Pre-Disaster Activities
Participate in Anytown Prepares–sponsored training, drills, and exercises as their schedule allows.
Participate in staffing outreach/information booths for community events.
Activation Timeline
6–8 hours post incident, as Ready Your Street responsibilities allow (e.g., take care of local emergencies first)
Post-Disaster Activation
Report to assigned primary or alternate Hub location after a disaster occurs according to recall procedures.
Submit completed windshield survey for the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) upon arrival at the Hub.
Hours will vary based on the nature of the incident but will not exceed one 12-hour shift/24-hour period for a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
Supervision Responsibilities
None unless specifically assigned as a team lead.
Training and Orientation
Whereas individuals with formal mental health training are valued (licensed counselor, social worker, psychologist, etc.), no specific mental health background or experience is required.
PFA certification is required. This is achieved by taking either the University of Minnesota PFA course or the Johns Hopkins PFA course
Introduction to verbal de-escalation training is required
FEMA IS-100 (An Introduction to the Incident Command System)
FEMA IS-700 (An Introduction to the National Incident Management System)
Disaster Hub orientation training
