NEMCo is a partnership among the cities of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park, and Shoreline Fire Department to maximize each of the participating agencies emergency preparedness efforts and resources to serve our Northshore community.
2026 Events
Stay Tuned. Many Activities are planned for this year!
►Tuesday, May 19, 2026 - RACES Meeting
The RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) team met at Fire Station 51 for our monthly session. RACES operators play a vital role in providing supplemental communications to state and local agencies during emergencies, ensuring information continues to flow when it matters most.
The first topic of discussion was the upcoming 5th Saturday drill on May 30th. The plan is to establish radio communications between Lake Forest Park and the FS 51 EOC, testing both voice and email traffic using Winlink. The ACS group will be operating from FS 61 Headquarters, and everyone will also be connecting with several other emergency communications groups across cities throughout the region.
We then shifted to planning a new activity for the Shoreline Fire Pancake Breakfast on June 13th. RACES volunteers will be inviting children and youth to get on the air using both ham radios and GMRS radios as part of a quick introduction to handheld radio operation.
Doug delivered an excellent presentation on radio propagation for field operations, covering the science and physics behind how radio signals travel. We wrapped up the evening with a hands‑on exercise in passing voice messages using introductory words. It was a lively and entertaining practice session with many of us spoking far too quickly, and our message receivers had to remind us to slow down!
More information will be posted soon about Introductory Words and Prowords for voice messaging.
►Saturday, May 16, 2026 - Field Ops RDA Training
Rapid Damage Assessment (RDA) was scheduled to be our monthly training but had to be cancelled due to room unavailability. A big thank‑you to the volunteers who ensured everyone received the update including meeting people in the parking lot to make sure no one missed the message.
RDA equips NEMCo emergency worker volunteers, building inspectors, and local officials to quickly evaluate structural safety and community impacts after a disaster.
This training prepares responders to rapidly identify unsafe buildings, document hazards, and collect essential information that supports effective emergency response and community recovery
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Rapid Damage Assessment Resources
►Tuesday May 12, 2026 - Field Ops Meeting
This month, we had guest instructors from Seattle City Light to teach us what to do when we encounter a downed power line or are in a situation where we may encounter a downed power line.
DON'T GET ELECTROCUTED!
Assume any downed or low-hanging power line is energized and dangerous. An energized line may not spark, smoke or make any noise.
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Stay at least 30 feet away from downed distribution lines (Pole)
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Stay at least 100 feet away from downed transmission lines (Tower)
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Call 911 to Report the Downed Power Line
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Do not stand under or near damaged trees or damaged utility equipment. Damaged objects and equipment could be unstable and fall at any time.
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Do not drive over or under damaged lines.
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Always obey road closure signs and barricades.
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Never approach a utility worker unless they have confirmed it is safe to do so
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Downed power lines in contact with a vehicle - If the vehicle cannot be moved, stay inside until electric utility workers notify you it is safe to exit. If you must exit the vehicle due to a fire or other imminent danger, do NOT touch the vehicle and the ground at the same time. Jump clear, land with your feet together and shuffle at least 30 feet away while keeping your feet close together and on the ground at all times. Do not return to the vehicle.
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Digging Call 811 to locate Utilities - to have underground utility wires, pipes, and lines marked for free before any digging project.
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Generator Safety - Never try to power house wiring by plugging the generator into a wall outlet as it can lead to the electrocution of utility workers or neighbors. Plug appliances directly into the generator and Place the generator outside at least 20 feet away from any windows, doors.
Down Power Line Resources
►Saturday, May 9, 2026 - Pack the Park -
Pack the Park Fun Run | Fighting Food Insecurity One Step at a Time.
Food insecurity is rising. More local families are struggling to put healthy meals on the table. But together, we can change that.
Pack the Park isn’t just a run—it’s a movement. A fun, family-friendly event where every step you take helps provide food and support to kids and families right here in our community.
CERT BASIC TRAINING - May 2, 2026
See the SHORELINE NEWS ARTICLE - CLICK HERE
Our Community CERT Program is officially underway, and the first day was packed with activity. Participants began with a Disaster Preparedness presentation, followed by an introduction to the Incident Command System (ICS). The day wrapped up with Medical 1 training.
We also mixed in some fun, hands‑on challenges — including a competition to build the tallest paper tower, forming an Incident Team, and an afternoon of practical bandaging and tourniquet application.
Day Two continued with skill‑building through hands‑on exercises. Participants completed Medical 2 head‑to‑toe assessments, practiced Fire Suppression using both the electronic training system and live fire, and then moved into Light Search & Rescue with triage. The day concluded with a final exercise focused on safely moving injured survivors.
The third day was filled with activity. Cribbing and lifting, a final exam and the a drill in the fire tower doing search and then triage and medical operations was set-up in the fire station. Each student was able to demonstrated all the skill learned. Everyone was thrilled to get their CERT certificate and a class picture!
CERT Day 3: Saturday May 2
CERT Day 1: Saturday, April 25
CERT Day 2: Sunday, April 26
►Saturday, April 18, Field Ops C.O.M.S. Training
By R.McKenzie
There was a training session on Field Communications. Everything we do in the field, whether during an emergency or routine operations, depends on knowing what is happening and being able to communicate that information to others. The tools and methods we use to share information make up our Field Communications capability.
We reviewed the different communication methods available in the field, including FRS/GMRS radios, Starlink, First Responder phones, and other systems. We then covered the operational field structure based on the Incident Command System (ICS), beginning with the Incident Commander and continuing through Section Chiefs, Branch Directors, Field Division Supervisors, and Strike Teams.
Lastly, we discussed FRS/GMRS FCC regulations, basic radio anatomy, common causes of signal interference, and provided handouts for reference.
►Tuesday, April 14, Monthly Field Ops Meeting
By R.McKenzie
The team meeting covered upcoming events such as this coming Saturday's field comms training. We also need to be aware that the Fire Station 51 Pancake Breakfast is Saturday June 13th which will be a big outreach event for NEMCo. If you can help with the planning contact Robin.
We had our monthly training on blood-borne pathogens and personal preparedness equipment (PPE). The NEMCo PPE miimum list was presented and a new CERT Helmet!
Interested in the New CERT helemet - CLICK HERE
NEMCo PPE Requirements include: a Hard hat, Eye protection, Hi visibility vest, protective shoes, Nitril medical gloves and work gloves, Face mask and a whistle.
►Tuesday, March 17, RACES (Ham) radio meeting
By R.McKenzie
RACES held its team meeting, which included a hands‑on mini‑training session on using Winlink templates and generating key ICS forms. The goal was to help members build strong foundational radio skills, and the interactive format gave everyone a chance to explore Winlink directly on their own computers.
The group also reviewed the updated ICS‑217A frequency list for NEMCo and discussed posting a code plug on the website in the future so members can easily stay current. The meeting wrapped up with programming member radios using the new frequency list.
If you have a radio that needs to be updated, feel free to bring it to the next meeting.
Want more information about Winlink Click Here
Do you know what an ICS217 is? Find out more Click Here
The ICS Form 217A, Communications Resource Availability Worksheet, is a FEMA prepopulated, non-mandatory document listing available radio frequencies and talk groups for an incident.
► Saturday, March 14, Op's Structure Training at the LFP EOC.
By R.McKenzie
We reviewed NEMCo’s operational and day‑to‑day structure. In Part One, we walked through the Incident Command System (ICS), focusing on how its flexibility aligns with NIMS requirements. Part Two covered our daily operating structure, and Part Three showed how our organization transitions into an incident structure that fully adheres to ICS principles.
After that, we moved into a hands‑on exercise. We started with an Incident Briefing, and each team’s Operations Chief ensured their group understood the mission and incident objectives. The teams then built an incident structure based on those objectives. It was a lot of fun, and the best part is that everyone performed exceptionally well—especially given the very compressed timeframe.
NEMCo members log into the website member area or contact Lisa for a copy.
►Tuesday, March 11, Field OPs Monthly Meeting
By R.McKenzie
We had a great turn-out! We discussed upcoming events with each group reporting on activities and progress. We had a special guest from "Washington Therapy Dogs".
They presented the work of the group focused on Animal-assisted therapy which is having a significant impact on the quality of life for those who are in trauma and our older adults.
Notes:
1. City of Woodinville has ask NEMCo to help with volunteer management and training. We expect we will do a CERT training in Woodinville this year.
2. Everyone should share information about our up-coming CERT class.
3. This Saturday we will do training on the NEMCo organizational structure and how we fit into it.
4. RACES meeting next Tuesday week will explain ICS Forms and how they are used with WinLink. It is a great opportunity to get your radio programmed with the latest narrow band frequencies.
5. The first aid team is starting to form and emails will be sent out by Pat.
6. DRONE team is currently planning for an open house in April.
7. The Next Fifth Saturday drill will be in May and expect a three day event with the Cities.
► Saturday, February 14, Shoreline ACS Portable Radio Antennas
A one-hour class on portable radio antenna options and how to set up a portable radio antenna. This was followed by a demonstration and hands-on opportunity to erect a portable radio antenna and put it to use. Class was held at Station 61, 17525 Aurora Ave. N. in Shoreline.
Here is some information about mounting antennas: click here
► Thursday, February 12, FS 51, Drone Train-The-Trainer (TTT).
Training on how to instruct Drone classes. Train the trainer course gave those in attendance the practical platform skills and confidence needed to succeed in training our drone members. This class was based upon the CERT train the trainer course.
If you can more info about the CERT T-T-T go to the CERT resource page or click here
Wednesday, February 11 - Seahawks Super Bowl LX World Champions Parade
By P Ducey
NEMCo members volunteered to support the Blue Thunder Celebration for the Seattle Seahawks winning the Super Bowl. Assignments were at the Event EOC, and on the parade route. Emergency Management Group-Washington was the lead agency, and when they sent out a link to register for the event, they filled the roles quickly. It was a successful and joyous event, with talk of doing it again next year.
Tuesday, February 10 - Field team monthly meeting
By R.McKenzie
We held our monthly meeting at FS 51, where each group reported on recent activities and upcoming events. The 5th Saturday drill was a great success, with the EOC set up by NEMCo volunteers and radio communications fully supporting operations. We discussed how important pro-words are in radio communications. Planning is already underway for our next fifth‑Saturday drill on May 31.
The drone team is now supporting local school STEM classes and visited the Kellog Middle School(Shoreline School District). Several upcoming opportunities for engagement. Our new website on Google Sites is in development, and the steering team will have a chance to review a prototype, with more information to come next month.
Doug presented on how radios—both GMRS and Ham—combined with an effective community radio program can provide essential communication after a disaster. We also explored a new and exciting opportunity to help establish NEMCo’s community radio program for Lake Forest Park and Kenmore residents. Community groups and NEMCo Volunteers are needed to support this program.
CLICK HERE TO SEE the Map my NEMCo presentation
Our upcoming training Saturday Feb 14th will focus on antennas and will take place this Saturday at FS 61 with the ACS team.
RACES monthly meeting date has changed to the Third Tuesday of the month at 7:oo pm. there will be an email sent to all volunteers.
Additional Info about what was discussed in the meeting:
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NIMS - National Incident Management System is a comprehensive, nationwide framework developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that provides consistent, shared processes and vocabulary for incident management. Used by FEMA, all levels of government, and private organizations, NIMS enables effective, coordinated response to disasters or emergencies, regardless of their size or complexit
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ICS - The Incident Command System (ICS) is the combination of facilities, euuipment, personnel, procedures, and communications operating within a common organizational structure, designed to aid in domestic incident management activities.
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Pro-words - What are they? Procedure words used in radio communications that are standardized, short, and concise voice terms used in radio communications to ensure rapid, clear, and accurate information transfer
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Planning P: The Planning P has the steps for planning in the shape of the letter "P." Click here for more info.
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FEMA IS-13: NDEMU Conduct and Behavior - click here take the course
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 Cascade K‑8 STEM Fair
By D. Singley
NEMCo UAS Squirrel Team Brings Hands‑On Drone Experience to Cascade Community School K‑8 STEM Fair
Students at Cascade K‑8 had the chance to step into the world of unmanned aircraft systems on Wednesday, February 4, when the NEMCo UAS Team was invited to participate in the school’s annual STEM Fair. The team transformed the gym into an interactive drone zone, complete with a flight simulator station and a full obstacle course designed for hands‑on flying.
Throughout the event, students rotated through stations where they learned the fundamentals of drone operation. Younger participants began on the simulator, practicing basic controls and getting a feel for how drones respond in flight. Once comfortable, they were invited to pilot the NEO drone through a custom obstacle course—an experience that quickly became one of the fair’s most popular activities.
Older students took the opportunity to dive deeper, combining flying time with thoughtful questions about how drones are used in emergency response, the differences between various UAS platforms, and what it takes to operate them safely in the field. The conversations offered a real‑world look at the growing role of drone technology in public safety and community support.
The event was made possible by the volunteer efforts of UAS Team members Jim M., Travis M., Lisa O., and Chase B., who spent the afternoon guiding students, answering questions, and showcasing the capabilities of modern unmanned aircraft.
Their presence added a dynamic, hands‑on element to the STEM Fair—one that left many students inspired and eager to learn more about the science and technology behind flight.
Saturday, January 31, 2026 - 5th Saturday Drill
By A. Louise
Welcome to a new year!
Northshore Emergency Management Coalition held our first 5th Saturday drill of 2026 this past weekend. We had a fantastic turnout of 30 participants, including representatives from Shoreline ACS, NEMCo RACES, NEMCo UAS (aka Team Squirrel), and NEMCo Field Operations/CERT. We even had a couple of visitors come to watch the various aspects of the operation.
This time, we tested our capabilities for response to a flooding situation with establishing ground truth, handling radio and WinLink traffic and establishing an Emergency Operations Centre to co-ordinate activities with the in-house teams and neighbouring jurisdictions (virtual)
With our first of four 5th Saturday drills now on the books, we look forward to building an even more ready and resilient team based upon lessons learned. Thanks to those who participated and hope to see even more people out for the next drill, scheduled for May.
DO YOU WANT MORE Exercise-Specific Training - Click Here
The State of Washington conducts 5th Saturday communication exercises (also referred to as EMD 5th Saturday drills or drills by the Emergency Management Division) approximately once a quarter, or whenever a month has five Saturdays.
Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Kenmore Station 51.
By P. Ducey
NEMCo held Stop The Bleed training on Saturday January 17. This is the class where you learn about tourniquets and packing wounds. The photos show the training aids used during the class. This course is offered several times a year in the region, and we try to get it at least once a year onto the NEMCo training calendar.
STOP THE BLEED® is a national campaign to encourage bystanders to become trained, equipped, and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. It is a public/private partnership led by the Department of Defense and many other stakeholders. WANT MORE INFO CLICK HERE
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 CERT Team Meeting
By R.McKenzie
We had our first well‑attended meeting of 2026. Everyone completed their annual paperwork; the Code of Conduct can be found and printed here. If you did not, it is available here aplease turn it in to Kevin Lowery, Emergency Manager.
We also discuss the planning for the Fifth Saturday exercise on January 31, arrive at 8:45, Fire Station 51.
All training for the year has been loaded into Volgistics. While some details may shift, the schedule is largely accurate. Volunteers, please make sure you register for events—if you don’t, there may not be room to accommodate you. This year, meetings and training sessions will be held at multiple sites, including FS51, FS61, Lake Forest Park, and Kenmore City Hall. Be sure to double‑check the location before heading out.
We did individual introductions and welcomed three new members to NEMCo. It was great to see new faces in the crowd.
Our mini‑training topic was What’s In Your Kit? Handouts were provided to help you replenish consumable items such as granola bars, flashlights, bandages, and water‑meter wrenches. If you need a wrench, contact Pat—he can make one for you.
The NEMCo Steering Committee has been selected, and the names are posted on the member login page.
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Woodinville HS CERT Final.
By P. Ducey
Teen CERT is the same as the CERT course that most of us take. The big difference is that it's taught in smaller chunks, and it takes a semester to learn. Woodinville High School offers a Teen CERT class as an elective, and it is a very popular class. Danna Kapacinksas, a Master CERT Instructor, has two full classes in her Emergency Management Program, which means that every semester, she has to put on a CERT Final Simulation for up to 60 students, and she has only two hours to do it and work within the school schedule.
NEMCo is happy to support this program. Danna is teaching well over 100 new CERTs every year, and they live right here in our community. This is a fun afternoon working with young people. The next Woodinville HS CERT Final is in late May, why don't you come on out?
Danna Kapacinskas is a dedicated educator and CERT instructor at Woodinville High School in Washington State. With extensive experience in teaching emergency preparedness to high school students, Danna has developed innovative methods to engage youth in community resilience efforts. Her approach emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and teamwork, ensuring students gain confidence in their ability to respond to emergencies. In addition to teaching, Danna is passionate about fostering partnerships between schools and local emergency services. She has previously presented on educational strategies for youth preparedness and is eager to share her expertise with a broader audience.