NCJ Number
203357
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 51 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2003 Pages: 22,24
Date Published
November 2003
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the varied, specialized knowledge concerning law enforcement training needed by Public Information Officers.
Abstract
In the post September 11, world, law enforcement officers are receiving greater amounts of specialized training. This article discusses the various Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) classes the author has attended over the years. The author notes that all of the various training schools teach essentially the same subject matter using various styles, formats, methods, and levels of interactivity. He also discusses the importance of public information officers (PIO's) having a working knowledge of biological agents, chemical weapons, radiological and explosive devices, and the dangers these various weapons pose to a community. The PIO's should be knowledgeable about WMD and their uses in order to speed up the information dissemination process. The author states that he strongly endorses the First Responder Training Program offered by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in order to offer information and resources concerning WMD to local law enforcement officials, tuition-free.