NCJ Number
177835
Journal
Sheriff Volume: 51 Issue: 2 Dated: March-April 1999 Pages: 10-46
Date Published
1999
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article examines the professional input of emergency response experts to the analysis of weapons of mass destruction.
Abstract
The National Guard Bureau conducted a study of its role in the Nation’s response to weapons of mass destruction, and included participation by nearly 100 representatives from emergency response agencies, including law enforcement, fire services, government, medical/emergency medical services, industry and education, think tanks, chaplains and the military. Law enforcement experts concluded that, with the possible exception of major metropolitan areas such as New York City, police departments are not trained, or equipped to cope with a major incident involving weapons of mass destruction. Firefighters must be trained and equipped if they are to be of any value. Emergency medical personnel noted a lack of hospital-level preparedness and disincentives that keep hospitals from cooperating during emergencies. There is no national strategy with overall authority and funding for implementation. Planning experts within the National Guard Bureau are continuing to refine the recommendations of each of the advisory groups.