How far should grid maps extend from the airport reference point for emergency response planning?

• A. 5 miles
• B. 10 miles
• C. 15 miles
• D. 20 miles

Answer: (B)

For effective emergency response planning at an airport, grid maps are essential as they help responders visualize the surrounding areas and plan their routes and tactics during an incident. The correct extent for these maps to cover from the airport reference point is 10 miles. This distance is chosen because it strikes a balance between ensuring coverage of areas likely to be affected by an incident originating at the airport while also being manageable for emergency services to monitor and coordinate their response.

A 10-mile radius allows for comprehensive assessments of potential risks, resource deployment locations, and adequate preparation for incidents that could impact areas or populations nearby. This distance can encompass critical locations such as hotels, educational institutions, and major roadways, all of which can be significant during emergency scenarios.

While 5 miles might be too close to capture the full scope of potential incidents, extending to distances like 15 or 20 miles might exceed practical needs for immediate response planning and could complicate resource management and response coordination, making it less efficient for emergency responders. Therefore, 10 miles is the standardized distance that effectively supports the objectives of emergency planning in an airport context.