Methods: Using the Surfside building collapse as a case study, researchers examined academic journals, national and international regulatory organizations, federal, state, and municipal policies, as well as established best practices, national news outlets, local news outlets, and social media to identify shortcomings in response and best practices.

Results: A distinctive feature of this disaster response is both the elements that contributed to the building collapse complicated by hasty inspections and climate conditions and a lack of coordinated response efforts. The initial local response and call for extended support resulted in delays resulting in a month to fully recover the 98 victims from the ruins. Six task forces responded bringing 80-100 people each who worked around the clock. Basic needs of the response teams for space and living conditions were not well coordinated so shortages occurred in food and living conditions. Fire trucks and other equipment blocked travel routes. Weather conditions (heat, ongoing thunderstorms, and threat of secondary collapse) undermined response efforts. The family assistance center opened within days but the interim period stressed families. While state mental health supports were available for responders, gaps in communication delayed accessing these resources. Although the disaster itself did not lend to many survivors after the initial collapse, all 98 victims were successfully recovered and returned to their families respecting cultural practices.

Conclusions: Emergency preparedness plans must include response coordination for large scale building collapses. The “small city” of responders that descended to help needed a prioritization and synchronization process to coordinate efforts. Instead of individual base camps, coordinated response resources would have alleviated shortages of food/housing/showers and the stress on the community. In the midst of early incidents, community groups and support resources must be at the table for decision-making. Only when the whole community is engaged can a coordinated response meet the needs of survivors and responders, build trust and maximize efficient response. As climate conditions change and water front incursions change building conditions, new policies and remediation regulations must be in place. The response, although a success, demonstrated shortcomings and new best practices applicable to future major incidents.