NCJ Number
194377
Journal
The Beacon Volume: 3 Issue: 3 Dated: December 2000 Pages: 1-6
Date Published
December 2000
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This newsletter focuses on a national workshop on domestic preparedness, information sharing, and a training center for emergency response and rescue.
Abstract
A National Workshop on Domestic Preparedness and Counterterrorism planned to be held in March 2001 to bring together representatives from the Federal agencies responsible for domestic preparedness and counterterrorism. The workshop was designed to promote the exchange of timely and essential information through presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and small-group work. Issues discussed included current and future trends in terrorism, Congressional initiatives, infrastructure protection, health care system response, and crisis versus consequence management. The Information Sharing/Outreach program has developed some tools to disseminate Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) preparedness information directly to Federal, State, and local emergency responders. The Common Communication Link (CCL) is designed to empower the emergency response community by connecting it to the National Domestic Preparedness Office and partner sites through electronic links. It offers communication tools such as a chat program, email, and a trading post. Information resources are offered, including special bulletins, preparedness information, and electronic links. The Internet site provides unclassified information about the office and WMD preparedness to the emergency response community and the general public. The National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center (NERRTC) in Texas offers several terrorism and WMD courses to the emergency response community. The Threat and Assessment Course is designed to train first responders on awareness, operations, technician, and incident command levels. The participant is required to occupy a position in fire protection, law enforcement, public health, public works, emergency management, the private sector, or the military. Other courses related to emergency medical service operations and planning for WMD, and leadership development for integrated emergency response executive management.