NCJ Number
190981
Date Published
2001
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This chapter discusses considerations in choosing technologies or systems.
Abstract
New threats, especially weapons of mass destruction, have often been attributed to new technologies. The chapter claims that, with the exceptions of nuclear/radioactive threats, this is not the case. In most instances it is not a need for new technologies or doctrine, but simply for relearning what was implemented over the years of the Cold War. The chapter focuses on other classes of threats, including chemical and biological, man-made as well as natural. The chapter suggests that technology: must be used to improve job performance; is useless without doctrine; requires training and ongoing use; requires maintenance, repair, and calibration; has limitations; and never replaces training and judgment. New technology requirements in the emergency response field include: (1) tracking resources and assets; (2) bio-monitoring with telemetry; (3) tracking responders in a hot zone or building; (4) improved situational awareness; (5) sensor capability including biological, chemical, thermal, etc.; (6) survivability improvement; (7) improved voice and data communications; (8) improved environmental data; and (9) improved threat assessment and intelligence.