What does it mean to "standby" during an emergency?

Choosing to maintain readiness to respond while awaiting updates means that personnel are prepared for immediate action if an emergency situation evolves or requires their input. This can involve being alert, monitoring communication channels, and being equipped to deploy rapidly as new information comes in or as the situation develops.

In emergency response scenarios, conditions can change swiftly, and being in a standby state allows responders to adapt their actions accordingly. This readiness ensures that they can effectively contribute to managing the emergency, whether that involves transitioning to active involvement or remaining in an observational role as the event unfolds. This dynamic allows for optimal allocation of resources and personnel throughout the emergency response.