Ground Truthing

A map is dependable only if it is accurate. Imagine the implications of someone being “forgotten” in an evacuation because they just built their house on a new cul-de-sac a year ago.  Or imagine telling people to use an evacuation route with a bridge that has been closed for construction for the last six months.

Marking Zones and Routes

Maps for ERPs include EPZs and EAZs that determine issues such as who gets evacuated under what circumstances. These zones are determined based on public safety and are mapped out using engineering calculations, statistical analysis, and worst-case scenarios. They take into account things like the type of energy facility and its level of risk, the surrounding geography, the impact of wind, etc.

At EX/PX when we’re preparing maps, we do what is called “ground truthing,” a process by which our field staff visit the area on a map to make sure that what is rendered corresponds to what is actually there. This way, we don’t miss any new developments—residential, industrial, or public—or any new, changed, or unreliable infrastructure.