The NFPA’s latest magazine (January/February, 2012, page 9), and latest newsletter, both have an article on the hazards posed by the encampments of the Occupy movement. The article reinforces the fact that fire departments are getting more involved in and affected by civil unrest events. We can expect more of these as we move through an election year, and all agencies should be preparing for them.
The Firefighters Support Foundation’s (FSF) training program, Fire/EMS Response to Civil Unrest, is a great resource for individuals, agencies, and trainers on this subject.
The presenter is August Vernon, the well-known Subject Matter Expert on Emergency Management.
This 40-minute video program is completely free and may be viewed HERE.
The program covers:
- Types of events
- Dispatch issues
- Body armor
- The effects of alcohol
- Coordination with other agencies and the police
- Approach strategies
- The potential for violence
- The NFPA mandate
- Lessons learned from previous events
- Why no jurisdiction is too small
- Proven tactics
About the Firefighters Support Foundation
The Firefighters Support Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization dedicated to assisting firefighters and rescue personnel perform their jobs effectively and safely. We also set aside a portion of our funds to aid underfunded agencies and assist families of fallen firefighters.
RELATED FIREFIGHTER TRAINING
Safe Response to Civil Unrest Incidents
Brett Martinez: Is There a Role for the Fire Service during SWAT and Civil Unrest Operations?
Fire Chiefs Endorse Position Papers on Civil Unrest, Behavioral Health, and UAS
