Identifying vulnerabilities, improvements, and mitigating actions The table on the next page shows a simple way to consider your system, identify the vulnerability of each component, and define what improvements or mitigating actions can lessen the impact. Once a vulnerability assessment has been completed, use the information for financial planning or budgeting processes. Prioritize the system improvements and security enhancements identified in the vulnerability assessment and determine how and when they can be funded. Are some that justify a rate increase? Can they be funded from reserves? Consider these important questions as you finalize the vulnerability assessment and emergency response plan. Example: Facility vulnerability assessment and improvements identification System Description Vulnerability Improvements Security component and or mitigating improvements condition actions Source Two 35’ deep The are Implement Upgrade well groundwater most vulnerable Source Water houses: Install wells supply to contamination Protection fencing and the system from above program. deadbolts. They are ground activities Secure well located within because they houses to a few hundred are only 35’ foundation and feet of town deep. install lighting and its around well The well houses developed house. are not highly areas. The secure so they sources are in could be excellent vulnerable to condition. acts of vandalism. Section 10: Response Actions for Specific Events
Identifying vulnerabilities, improvements, and mitigating actions The table on the next page shows a simple way to consider your system, identify the vulnerability of each component, and define what improvements or mitigating actions can lessen the impact. Once a vulnerability assessment has been completed, use the information for financial planning or budgeting processes. Prioritize the system improvements and security enhancements identified in the vulnerability assessment and determine how and when they can be funded. Are some that justify a rate increase? Can they be funded from reserves? Consider these important questions as you finalize the vulnerability assessment and emergency response plan. Example: Facility vulnerability assessment and improvements identification System component Description and condition Vulnerability Improvements or mitigating actions Security improvements Source Two 35’ deep groundwater wells supply the system They are located within a few hundred feet of town and its developed areas. The sources are in excellent condition. The are most vulnerable to contamination from above ground activities because they are only 35’ deep. The well houses are not highly secure so they could be vulnerable to acts of vandalism. Implement Source Water Protection program. Upgrade well houses: Install fencing and deadbolts. Secure well houses to foundation and install lighting around well house. Section 10: Response Actions for Specific Events