Ohio Homeland Security is launching a free credentialing system meant to make it easier for certain private-sector partners to deliver resources and services in restricted areas during emergencies.
The Department of Public Safety says starting Friday, credentials can be requested by organizations and companies participating in the Ohio Public Private Partnership, a program intended to strengthen disaster response. A spokesman says the credentials can be issued electronically and verified more quickly by law enforcement personnel who restrict access during an emergency.
For example, a pharmacy chain might credential a driver delivering medication after a disaster, or a hospital might credential key employees so they can get to work during a snow emergency.
One credential type is specific for a single, designated emergency. The other provides broader access amid emergency-relief efforts.