As threats to public safety evolve, so must the tactics and tools law enforcement offices utilize. To prepare for the altering threat landscape, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) supported the participation of personnel from Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) Special Operations Division (SOD) in eight aerial platform training sessions throughout the last fiscal year (FY).

This training was focused on using the Guardian helicopter’s removable benches to engage and disengage active threats, marking a significant enhancement in the department’s operational capabilities.

The integration of this training provides a critical advantage that offers increased mobility, speed, and a unique vantage point  for tracking and de-escalating threats. This training was meticulously designed to provide SOD personnel with the expertise required to utilize the benches in various scenarios. Key components of the training include:

• Tactical Insertion and Extraction: SOD personnel learn specific techniques necessary for a safe and efficient engagement and disengagement from the helicopter benches in active threat situations.
• Advanced Aerial Maneuvers: The training covers complex flight patterns and maneuvers crucial during tactical insertions and extractions that offer a new perspective for personnel.
• Safety Protocols and Procedures: Emphasis is placed on crucial safety standards to protect both the officers and the public during aerial operations.
• Simulated Real-World Scenarios: Armed with simulation rounds, personnel conduct real-world exercises to provide a more hands-on experience.

The benefits of this training extend across multiple facets of law enforcement operations. This training enhances rapid response techniques that provide an enhanced ability to quickly insert and extract officers from the helicopter, which could ultimately save lives. Considering PGPD shares its Guardian helicopter with other jurisdictions, this also offers a strategic advantage to agencies outside of Prince George’s County and enables better coordination and decision-making. This technique also increases personnel safety, giving officers an advantage when engaging in threats from a safe distance. Lastly, this training could assist with other operations, including search and rescue operations, disaster response, and large-scale public event monitoring.

Testimonials from the Field: Officers who have participated in this training reported an increased confidence in their ability to execute the techniques and skills learned. Lieutenant Daniel Siculietano from PGPD SOD commented, “This training is invaluable and provides an outstanding asset to the police department.” Five MDERS staff members had the opportunity to observe the training this spring. Emergency Response Specialist Elizabeth Adams, one of those staff members, remarked, “Witnessing aerial platform training firsthand was incredibly enlightening. The dedication and skill demonstrated by the officers from PGPD SOD was truly impressive. This training is crucial to ensuring that personnel are consistently prepared to respond to critical incidents.”

MDERS is committed to continuous improvement and innovation in public safety. Following the success of the first eight training sessions, plans are underway to support several more in the coming fiscal year. By fostering a culture of ongoing education and skill development, MDERS aims to bolster emergency response and public safety.

In conclusion, aerial platform training represents a significant advancement in law enforcement capabilities. By harnessing the tools at their disposal, including the helicopter and attached benches, PGPD SOD personnel are now better equipped to handle active threats with increased efficiency and safety, ultimately enhancing the security and well-being of the community.

The Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) Deputy Director, Operational Support Hannah Thomas, and Emergency Response Specialist Elizabeth Adams had the opportunity to serve as counselors during the second annual Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management’s HERricane summer camp program this July. HERricane Camp is a week-long program created and sponsored by the Institute for Diversity and Equity in Emergency Management (I-DIEM). I-DIEM is a global non-profit established to integrate equity into emergency management. Their focus is on supporting and empowering marginalized communities within the disaster management cycle.

The HERricane camp is designed to empower, educate, and encourage young women to pursue careers in public safety. The free camp was geared towards women ages 16-21 who reside within Anne Arundel County. Twenty-three young women participated in the program this year as campers, and five returning campers participated as junior counselors. Other counselors included accomplished women from various public safety agencies within the State of Maryland.

The first two days of the camp offered field trips to the Anne Arundel County Emergency Operations Center

(EOC) and the City of Annapolis EOC. At both locations, the campers participated in various presentations and activities. Some of the highlights include:

• • A presentation from the Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart L. Pittman Jr., discussing the importance of collaboration between elected officials and emergency management professionals.
  • A presentation from the Director of Anne Arundel County’s Office of Emergency Management, Preeti Emrick, outlining what emergency management is and what it looks like in Anne Arundel County.
  • A presentation and activity led by the Anne Arundel County Fire Department’s technical rescue crews, demonstrating the use of several tools necessary for rescue.
  • A presentation led by the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s K9 unit, displaying the skills of the K9 handlers and their partners.
  • An activity mimicking the reporting style of American meteorologist Jim Cantore, allowing campers to present in front of a green screen with fake wind and rain and a lot of background noise.
  • A presentation and activity from the City of Annapolis Office of Emergency Management, giving the campers the opportunity to present a weather report with song lyrics.

A presentation by Mayor Gavin Buckley of the City of Annapolis, highlighting the importance of emergency management in the city and discussing past incidents the city has successfully responded to and recovered from.

The last three days of camp were primarily held at Anne Arundel Community College. The campers received additional information on career opportunities in public safety and guidance on navigating these roles as women in a predominantly male-dominated field. Some of the highlights include:

• • Stop the Bleed training
  • CPR/AED/First Aid Training taught by MDERS Emergency Response Specialist Elizabeth Adams.
  • A tour of the Health and Life Sciences Building at the Anne Arundel Community College and informative discussions on education in public safety.
  • A presentation from the Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary, Russel Strickland.
  • An activity titled “Extreme Event” where the campers had the opportunity to test their skills and knowledge of resource management in an emergency.
  • A presentation on stress management from Anne Arundel County Risk Management.
  • A drone presentation by MDERS Deputy Director Hannah Thomas and junior counselor Kayla Foliente.

The camp ended with an awards ceremony, highlighting each camper’s significant participation during the week and presenting them with a certificate of completion. This camp uplifts young women and empowers them to seek careers in public safety. It also provides them with mentorship from counselors and junior counselors to support them in their future endeavors.

The HERricane summer camp has once again succeeded in its mission to inspire and equip the next generation of female leaders in public safety. Through hands-on experiences, engaging presentations, and mentorship, these young women have not only gained practical skills but also a deeper understanding of the vital roles they can play in their communities. As the camp participants move forward with newfound confidence and knowledge, they carry with them the powerful message that the future of public safety is indeed female, and they are at the forefront of shaping that future.