NCJ Number
190515
Date Published
January 2001
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This document summarizes and prioritizes the recommendations contained in the Bomb Disposal and Domestic Terrorism Response Services implementation plan for the State of Minnesota.
Abstract
It is recommended that funding be used for bomb squads to reimburse the cost of response, training, equipment maintenance, and to provide for replacement of capitol equipment such as bomb suits, robots, detection equipment and bomb disposal trailers. The State must develop and utilize a statewide database of available and/or existing resources. This website should be maintained by the Division of Emergency Management (DEM) and should have adequate battery back up to ensure complete redundancy. The State should coordinate and have available, emergency response/disaster management subject matter experts that can be deployed to assist local government during disasters. The State authorized hazardous materials response teams are a critical component to response to a weapon of mass destruction (WMD) incident and it is recommended that these teams’ roles be expanded into providing WMD response. Department of Justice (DOJ) WMD equipment funding should be used for the purchases of personal protective equipment, decontamination systems, and portable communication systems. The purchase of a Mobile Emergency Operations Center/Command and Communication Vehicle is recommended. Also, the State should provide annual funding for the maintenance of WMD equipment purchased with DOJ equipment grants. The State should also develop partnerships with local jurisdictions to develop collapsed structure rescue capabilities on a regional basis. To prepare and respond to terrorist threats, the State should distribute information gathered through a Domestic Preparedness system with local jurisdictions by a second website. Communications packages should contain a cell phone, satellite vhf-uhf voice, GPS positioning, data transmission capabilities, and should be deployed with State authorized response agencies. The State should coordinate and develop training focusing on WMD exercised and customized training; establish a multi-agency coordination team and improve laboratory capabilities in the event of terrorism; establish operational decontamination systems; and develop mobile detection capabilities. Also, authority and funds should be established for activating the National Guard and quarantine orders; responding to chemical, biological, and radiological emergencies; and acquiring Federal assistance.