In Fiscal Year (FY) 2021, the period from June 1, 2022, through May 31, 2023, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) played a vital role in strengthening stakeholder response capabilities. Through targeted policy and planning initiatives, systematic development and delivery of training and exercise programs, and strategic equipment acquisition, MDERS provided critical support to partner agencies, empowering them to improve their operational abilities. During FY21, MDERS, in collaboration with partners, focused their programmatic efforts into 15 different capabilities, which includes:

• Command Competency Law Enhancement
• Damage Assessment Software
• Emergency Management Response and Recovery Professional Services
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Augmented Reality Training
• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Mobile Clinical Competency Program
• Emerging Homeland Security Technology Pilot
• Incident Command Simulation
• Law Enforcement Specialized Vehicle Enhancements
• Mass Casualty Incident Response Support
• Public Access Bleeding Control
• Public Health Emergency Response
• Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS)
• Tactical Equipment for Law Enforcement
• Technical Rescue Vehicle
• Training and Exercise Program

Command Competency Lab Enhancement

The Command Competency Lab Enhancement modernized the Prince George’s County Fire Department’s (PGFD) command-level officer training.  These enhancements create an immersive and lifelike training simulation environment by integrating state-of-the-art three-dimensional (3D) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. This initiative, supported by upgraded information technology (IT) infrastructure and equipment, including a high-performance rendering workstation and visualization tools, enables incident personnel to practice decision-making, strategic coordination, and communication skills in controlled scenarios. Key upgrades, such as the integration of a portable Bespoke VR system into PGFD’s Mobile Immersive Simulation Environment (MISE), have significantly improved training outcomes. These improvements have allowed participants to better prepare for high-pressure emergencies and refine their operational readiness.

Damage Assessment Software

Effective damage assessment is a critical component of the post-impact recovery phase that guides incident personnel in strategically allocating resources and prioritizing areas requiring immediate attention. In FY21, the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS) enhanced its operational capabilities by incorporating Juvare’s Crisis Track software into their response operations. This innovative tool streamlines response and recovery efforts while bolstering the accuracy of collected data. Designed for field use, Crisis Track allows OEMHS staff to efficiently conduct damage assessments, capture incident photographs, and precisely map impacted locations. The collected information is integrated into the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) reporting tools to provide a real-time overview of the incident, providing officials with actionable insights and situational awareness to enhance decision-making and optimize emergency response strategies.

Emergency Management Response and Recovery Professional Services

MDERS supported the critical missions and strategic goals of OEMHS and Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (PG OHS/EM) by funding various professional services. In Montgomery County, MDERS helped fund two contractors to reinforce OEMHS’s community preparedness initiatives and emergency planning. This funding also strengthened the functions of community volunteer organizations, such as the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and Community Operations Active Disaster (COAD). In Prince George’s County, MDERS allocated funding to bolster PG OHS/EM’s response and recovery capabilities through executing planning initiatives and conducting specialized training programs. Additionally, funding was used to establish a contracted position aimed at enhancing volunteer and donations management operations while expanding community outreach and coordination efforts.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Augmented Reality Training

To improve emergency medical services (EMS) training and preparedness, MDERS supported the integration of augmented reality technology into EMS education programs for the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS) and PGFD. This initiative, funded by MDERS, facilitated the purchase of the PerSim® Pro software and necessary augmented reality devices, including the Hololens, to create an immersive training environment. These tools simulate patient encounters and customizable virtual mass casualty scenarios to improve the skills of first responders in medical care, scene management, and decision-making under stressful conditions.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Mobile Clinical Competency Program

The EMS Mobile Clinical Competency Program, developed with the support of MDERS, modernized emergency medical training for both MCFRS and PGFD by providing two customized electric vans equipped with specialized training tools. Each van operates as a mobile classroom outfitted with manikins, patient care supplies, and trauma equipment to enable realistic training in advanced EMS techniques, such as surgical airway procedures, intravenous (IV) insertion, and intubation. The program provides EMS personnel with a flexible and no-fault environment to refine critical skills while reducing the burden of traveling to training locations.

Emerging Homeland Security Technology Pilot

MDERS established the Emerging Homeland Security Pilot Program, known as the “Innovation Fund,” to support stakeholder agencies in addressing emergency response challenges through the evaluation and implementation of innovative technologies. The Innovation Fund allows agencies to apply for funding to procure, test, and assess novel solutions, enabling informed decisions about further investments and operational integration. By piloting certain technologies, agencies gain valuable insights into their effectiveness and applicability before fully adopting the equipment. In FY21, the specific technology acquired through the Innovation Fund includes the following:

• Paratech Rescue Guardian Kits are an advanced monitor and alarm system that provides MCFRS and PGFD firefighters with instant data about the dynamics of a comprised structure.
• First Arriving Digital Dashboards provided MCFRS with the ability to maintain a holistic situational awareness in one platform by gathering incident information from responses occurring throughout the region.
• K9 Global Position System (GPS) Collars and Accessories provided Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) with the needed equipment to track a deployed K9 through a simple mobile application.
• Butterfly Ultra-Sound Monitors allowed MCPD and Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) tactical emergency medical services (TEMS) personnel with portable monitors that facilitate on-scene patient assessment and ultra-sound imaging to increase the survival rates of patients experiencing life-threatening conditions.
• Audio/Video Equipment for the Command Competency Program assisted PGPD with creating training materials to strengthen the skills, tactical techniques, and best practices for personnel.

Incident Command Simulation

MDERS, in collaboration with the Uniformed Services University Val G. Hemming Simulation Center, developed an advanced virtual reality simulation system to bolster incident command training for MCFRS and PGFD. Utilizing cutting-edge 3D modeling and immersive technology, this initiative replicates complex emergency scenarios, such as residential house fires, to improve coordination, communication, and decision-making. The simulation integrates seamlessly into the MISE lab to expand training opportunities and enable participants to refine their actions in a controlled setting. This program reflects a commitment to supporting continuous training improvements that drive significant progress in response operations.

Law Enforcement Specialized Vehicle Enhancements

A special operations van and equipment were procured to support the deployment of MCPD personnel to complex and large-scale events. MDERS procured a van, a video switch camera, and additional barriers to respectively facilitate the transportation of tactical equipment, increase situational awareness, and reinforce scene management. MCPD used these enhancements to reinforce the safety of command staff, police officers, and civilians during public order, crowd management, and active violence incidents.

Mass Casualty Incident Response Support

MDERS enhanced the region’s Mass Casualty Incident Response Support capabilities by providing funding for tactical emergency casualty care (TECC) supplies and advanced medical equipment for MCFRS and PGFD. These resources included critical items such as tourniquets, decompression needles, and airway kits to address severe trauma in high-stake incidents. MDERS also funded the procurement of five Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System (LUCAS) devices, which deliver automated chest compressions to improve survivability rate by 25% in cardiac arrest cases. This initiative provides first responders with the tools necessary to manage, mitigate, and recover from mass casualty incidents.

Public Access Bleeding Control

The Public Access Bleeding Control Program, developed by MDERS, equips civilians in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties with the essential knowledge and tools to manage life-threatening bleeding emergencies. Through the deployment of over 1,000 bleeding control kits across public spaces, the program enhances community preparedness and increases survivability during emergencies. In FY21, MDERS grew the program by providing training caches to the Prince George’s County Public Schools System (PGCPS) and procuring additional equipment to expand the locations of these vital supplies.

Public Health Emergency Response

MDERS allocated funds to support the full-time staffing of a Medical Reserves Corps (MRC) coordinator for the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Prince George’s County Health Department (PGHD). The MRC Coordinator oversaw the deployment of volunteer medical professionals to various public health events in both jurisdictions. In Montgomery County, over 1,002 volunteer deployments contributed to more than 3,000 hours to activities such as COVID-19 vaccination clinics, testing operations, and community outreach. Similarly, in Prince George’s County, over 150 volunteers completed organizational training and engaged in more than 2,300 of public health emergency operations, including COVID-19 testing, vaccination clinics, and outreach for communicable disease control. Volunteers in both counties were trained in life-saving skills, supported disaster assistance centers, and participated in educational  initiatives to bolster community resilience.

Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS)

MDERS supported the implementation and expansion of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) in both Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties to strengthen stakeholders’ situational awareness and decision-making during intricate incidents requiring a specialized response. In Montgomery County, sUAS platforms were integrated into MCPD, MCFRS, and OEMHS operations, providing critical support for search and rescue missions, damage assessments, and active violence incidents. Accessories such as intelligent flight batteries and portable charging stations were procured to bolster operational efficiency. PGPD improved their sUAS program by acquiring advanced terrestrial imaging components to enhance geographical assessments, search operations, and post-incident evaluations. Additional investments in training, vehicle-mounted deployment equipment, and essential accessories reinforced the region’s ability to respond to diverse emergencies.

Tactical Equipment for Law Enforcement

In FY21, MDERS improved the specialized capabilities of MCPD and PGPD by providing tactical equipment designed to increase officer safety, situational awareness, and response efficiency during high-priority incidents. MCPD received personal protection equipment (PPE) kits, which included full-body protective gear, tactical respirators, and communication headsets, allowing officers to safely manage incidents involving chemical or biological hazards. PGPD received TEMS extraction kits, thermal breaching kits, and PPE to support Rescue Task Force operations, enabling officers to conduct tactical extractions and manage barricaded individuals. Additionally, a raid van was procured for PGPD to streamline the deployment of equipment and personnel. These strategic investments strengthen the preparedness of MCPD and PGPD across a wide range of critical operations.

Technical Rescue Vehicle

MDERS facilitated the procurement of a specialized technical rescue vehicle for MCFRS. This new tractor-drawn trailer offers 50% more storage capacity and improved mobility to allow personnel to efficiently transport and deploy necessary equipment. Alongside the vehicle procurement, MDERS supported structural collapse training for MCFRS and PGFD   which equipped participants with specialized skills such as shoring, breaching, and moving techniques to handle intricate rescue operations.

Training and Exercise Program

The Training and Exercise Program implemented by MDERS provides a wide range of opportunities for stakeholders to enhance their skills and capabilities through in-person, virtual, and hybrid curricula. This program encompasses highly specialized tactical trainings as well as policy-level and leadership development to address the diverse learning needs and operational priorities of stakeholders. Key training and exercises include:

• Advanced Explosive Breaching Course
• Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Conference 2022 & 2023
• Advanced Level 1 Public Order Training
• Advanced Sniper Course
• Aerial Platform Training
• Anatomy Gift Registry Lab 2022 & 2023
• Assessment and Training Solutions Consulting Corporation (ATSCC) Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) – Live Tissues Class
• Association of Healthcare Emergency Preparedness Professionals (AHEPP) Conference
• Counter Narcotics and Terrorism Operational Medical Support (CONTOMS) EMT – Advanced Tactical Course
• Direct Action Resource Center (DARC) Advanced Kinetic Breaching Course
• DARC Level 1 Kinetic Breaching Course
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Executive Leadership Institute (ELI)
• FBI Supervisor Leadership Institute (SLI)
• Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) International
• First Amendment Summit 2022 & 2023
• Governs Hurricane Conference
• Grant Writing Course
• Homeland Security and Evaluation Program (HSEEP)
• International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Annual Conference 2022 & 2023
• International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Hazardous Materials Response Teams Conference
• Maryland Emergency Management Association (MDEMA) Annual Symposium
• Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) Annual Symposium
• National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) Preparedness Summit
• National Association of Emergency Medical Services Physicians (NAEMSP) Annual Conference
• National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference (NHCPC)
• National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) 2022 & 2023
• National Hurricane Conference
• National Preparedness Leadership Initiative (NPLI) Improving Decision-Making Virtual Program
• National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Law Enforcement Response to Suicidal Subjects
• NTOA Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Command Decision-Making and Leadership I
• Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (SPSC)
• Pinnacle Conference 2022 & 2023
• Positional Shooting Clinic
• Special Operations Medical Association (SOMA) Scientific Assembly Conference
• TacOps East Training Conference 2022 & 2023
• Tomahawk Close Quarters Clearance (CQC) Methodical Clearance Baseline Course
• Understanding Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Maintenance Course
• UAS Operator Course
• Law Enforcement Interoperability TTX

With guidance from its Steering Committee and collaboration with multidisciplinary stakeholders, MDERS continues to reinforce its standard for regional preparedness and resilience to ensure exceptional service for nearly two million residents of Montgomery County and Prince George’s County. By fostering seamless integration, driving innovation, and providing strategic support, MDERS remains deeply committed to its vision of building stronger, safer, and more unified communities, prepared to meet the evolving challenges of tomorrow. For more information, including a detailed synopsis and budgetary breakdown of these programs, this report is available at www.mders.org.

Written by Oscar Coripuna

In November 2024, Elizabeth Adams, an Emergency Response Specialist for the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS), was recognized by the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) for her outstanding contributions to training excellence and innovation.

Elizabeth played a pivotal role in developing and implementing a modernized law enforcement training program aimed at enhancing patrol scenario training (PST). This innovative approach, detailed in the MDERS article “Enhancing Patrol Scenario Training: A New Era of Law Enforcement Testing”, focuses on advancing the preparedness and tactical proficiency of patrol officers through realistic, scenario-based exercises.

The award underscores Elizabeth’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the law enforcement community. Her work has not only improved training outcomes but has also set a new standard for the advancement of scenario-based training programs.

Congratulations to Elizabeth for this well-deserved recognition of her expertise and dedication to advancing public safety in our region!

In the event of an emergency incident, seamless coordination between public safety agencies and private sector partners is critical to respond to rapidly evolving threats. To improve preparedness, the Mongomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS), with the assistance of the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS), hosted a specialized workshop in collaboration with Washington Gas, a local public utility, and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS). The workshop aimed to evaluate Washington Gas’ ability to effectively respond to a gas leak incident at the Rockville facility, with a particular goal of integrating their operations with first responders. This initiative represents the first in a series of exercises that MDERS has organized to assess response procedures and identify operational challenges among participating agencies.

Given the high-risk nature of gas leak incidents, which can quickly escalate into large-scale emergencies, precise and coordinated actions from all involved parties are paramount. A gas leak not only poses immediate safety hazards, but it can also have far-reaching impacts on the surrounding community and environment. To examine this threat, the workshop was designed as a critical discussion-based exercise offering participants the opportunity to refine their response protocols and bolster interagency communication in a controlled yet realistic setting.

The workshop centered around a simulated scenario on Friday, October 4^th, at approximately 8:30 a.m. The exercise simulated an alert triggered by a liquid propane gas leak in a rail area at the Rockville site. Washington Gas personnel were tasked with managing various aspects of the incident, which included an unresponsive party experiencing frostbite, a large vapor cloud spreading into the community, and coordinating with arriving MCFRS personnel. The workshop highlighted the importance of a unified approach, engaging participants from various public safety and emergency management organizations that tested their ability to share information, conduct tactical responses, and manage on-site operations. Partners from OEMHS, Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), Montgomery College (MC), and MCFRS discussed problem-solving strategies as different events in the scenario unfolded.

The workshop’s objectives were multifaceted, allowing Washington Gas personnel to identify potential gaps in their emergency plans and align internal procedures with the collaborative efforts of public safety agencies. By training alongside public safety leaders, Washington Gas personnel gained a more robust understanding of the expectations and needs of first responders, allowing them to tailor their procedures accordingly. Similarly, public safety personnel familiarized themselves with Washington Gas’ internal processes, enabling them to operate cohesively.

Key components and objectives that the workshop evaluated included:

• Response: How quickly and organized Washington Gas personnel reacted to the gas leak incident while integrating their response protocols with first responders.
• Notification Procedures: How accurately Washington Gas personnel could notify the appropriate authorities by using their communication channels to relay vital information, such as the location of the leak, its severity, and any immediate hazards to personnel.
• Coordination and Management: The level of coordination between Washington Gas and MCFRS personnel required throughout the lifecycle of the incident while ensuring that clear expectations were communicated, responsibilities were properly delineated, and efforts streamlined.

Through real-time emergency simulations, MDERS is taking a forward-thinking approach to bridge the operational gaps and hurdles between private sector and public safety entities. Without continuous training that brings these groups together, there is a risk of miscommunication, delays, and misaligned actions that could exacerbate an already dangerous emergency. Overall, the workshop exercise was well received by participants, enabling agencies to adjust their existing procedures, plans, and strategies for future incidents. One of the key takeaways from the exercise was the importance of relationship-building and bringing attention to all details that are indispensable for preparedness. Meeting stakeholders and partners beforehand proved to be a crucial element for effective response. This ongoing MDERS-sponsored exercise series not only strengthens partnership but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement and readiness.

With several games scheduled in cities nationwide, such as major venues in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, the United States (U.S.) faces the task of ensuring the safety of attendees from around the world. As the United States prepares to host the 2026 Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup, a tournament of immense magnitude, the focus is not only on the quality of the competition but also on the critical aspects of stadium security and crowd control. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the first time the tournament features 48 teams with 104 matches hosted throughout Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. (FIFA, 2024).

Recent incidents occurring at large-scale events in the U.S. have raised concerns about the readiness to respond and manage the security demands of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The U.S. has experienced high-profile stadium-related security issues during popular concerts and sporting events. In 2021, the tragic crowd surge at the Astroworld Festival in Houston, Texas, highlighted the dangers of inadequate crowd management. More recently, incidents of violence and security breaches at the National Football League (NFL) games have underscored gaps in safety protocols. Additionally, a serious altercation occurred during a Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean (CONCACAF) Gold Cup match hosted in Santa Clara, California, where a Mexican soccer fan stabbed another fan, further highlighting violent acts in stadiums (Lopez, 2023). These challenges emphasize the importance of addressing vulnerabilities in crowd control, stadium security, and emergency preparedness for mass gatherings.

One of the primary challenges is the sheer volume of spectators expected to attend all the World Cup matches. With expanded stadium capacities, some games will attract over 70,000 fans at once indicating the need for appropriate safety planning. Events at the 2024 Copa America final in Hard Rock Stadium have demonstrated various failures due to poor event security and organization, particularly when fans without tickets breached the stadium and bypassed security (Cattry, 2024). In such environment, U.S. stadiums must consider the risk of overcrowding in fan zones, bottlenecked entry and exit points, fans illegally entering restricted areas, and civil unrest—all problems that could lead to dangerous outcomes.

Another layer of concern arises from the heightened security required for an international event of this scale. The 2026 World Cup will present international coordination hurdles that demand the integration of diverse entities to ensure seamless logistical security and operational cooperation between host nations. The vast influx of foreign visitors, including political leaders and famous celebrities, could not only elevate the profile of U.S. stadiums but also businesses surrounding the venue as targets for potential terror attacks. In 2015, the Islamic State (IS) militant group carried out a series of attacks involving three suicide bombs and multiple shootings, targeting the security checkpoint, stadium entrance, and a nearby fast-food outlet during a France soccer match at the Stade de France (BBC News, 2015). This underscores the significance of fostering cross-cultural competence to enhance coordination with foreign partners, ensuring better crowd control and mitigating possible security threats.

As security planning for the 2026 World Cup progresses, the upcoming two years will be critical for testing and refining a comprehensive safety and contingency framework. Felipe den Brok, Executive Director of Atlanta’s Emergency Preparedness Department, emphasized that their training schedule to prepare for hosting eight World Cup games, includes tabletop exercises, risk management, crowd management, human trafficking courses, and scenario-based drills, involving law enforcement, public safety, and critical infrastructure partners (Ridderbusch, 2024). Equipping personnel with practical experience and de-escalation skills necessary to manage a high volume of fans will be vital for maintaining crowd control. These efforts, combined with advanced technology such as drones with crowd-monitoring capabilities, fusion centers, and a region-wide integrated communication network, are expected to be crucial in responding to threats during the tournament (Ridderbusch, 2024). While in the early stages of development, the UEFA Euro 2024 highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) powered software, such as the “Escape Pro” system, which tracks crowd flow by calculating the number of people entering and exiting areas, as well as overall crowd density and movement patterns (George, 2024). This software can provide real-time data on stadium conditions and crowd dynamics to optimize the deployment of emergency resources and identify congestion points to prevent overcrowding.

The 2026 World Cup presents a unique opportunity for the U.S. to demonstrate its infrastructure capabilities, which encompass the ability to accommodate stadium facilities, manage transportation networks, utilize security measures, and incorporate technological systems required to support large-scale events. By integrating lessons learned from previous incidents and implementing cutting-edge technology, the U.S. has the potential to set a new global standard for event safety. However, the success of the event will depend on coordinated operations, thorough preparedness, and proactive crowd management strategies to ensure the safety of all stakeholders.

 

References

BBC News. (2025, December 9). Paris attacks: What happened on the night. Retrieved from Paris attacks: What happened on the night – BBC News

Cattry, P. (2024, July 15). Why CONMEBOL deserves blame for Copa America organizational failures; what’s next for U.S. World Cup stadiums. Retrieved from Why CONMEBOL deserves blame for Copa America organizational failures; what’s next for U.S. World Cup stadiums – CBSSports.com

FIFA. (2024, January 30). FIFA World Cup 26: Host countries, cities, dates, teams. Tickets, qualifying and more. Retrieved from FIFA World Cup 2026™ | Host Cities, Dates, Teams & more

George, N. (2024). Euro 2024: The Pinnacle of Technological Advancements in Football. Retrieved from Euro 2024: Der Höhepunkt des technologischen Fortschritts im Fußball (zone14.ai)

Lopez, E. (2023, July 4). FMF condemns stabbing during Mexico vs Qatar Gold Cup clash. Retrieved from FMF condemns stabbing during Mexico vs Qatar Gold Cup clash – AS USA

Ridderbusch, K. (2024, April 19). Across North America, police and public safety are bracing for the biggest sports event in history. Retrieved from Large event security: Police plans for the FIFA World Cup 2026 (police1.com)

Interdisciplinary coordination is paramount to position a jurisdiction to effectively mitigate, plan, respond, and recover from various emergencies. As a pivotal cog in this process, the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS) has organized a series of exercises to evaluate Montgomery County agencies and departments’ ability to cohesively fulfill their responsibilities during disasters. To support this initiative, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) has assisted OEMHS in the creation and implementation of this exercise series. The proactive steps from Montgomery County leadership and OEMHS, with the support from MDERS, will enhance the jurisdiction’s ability to collectively manage emergencies.

To prepare for emergencies, it is critical for localities to continuously evaluate their ability to effectuate the identified requirements in their plans, policies, and procedures. As the complexity of a disaster expands, it requires more departments to assume an active role in response efforts. The convergence of these distinct departments demands a high-level of coordination to identify individual and shared responsibilities in disaster situations. OEMHS convened Montgomery County’s Emergency Management Group (EMG) to examine their plans, identify corrective actions, and clearly delineate responsibilities during emergencies.

To begin the exercise series, representatives from OEMHS hosted a summit in August that provided general information about emergency management to department representatives. The summit transitioned into a workshop setting with departments outlining their expected actions during different emergency scenarios. This discussion provided a foundation for departments to understand the unique roles their peers have within the County.

The next phase of the exercise series was a Senior Policy Group (SPG) workshop. The SPG is responsible for macrolevel decisions that deal with life safety, government operations, funding, and legal issues. This group is comprised of agency leadership from the following departments:

• Office of the County Executive
• Office of the County Attorney
• Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security
• Department of Environmental Protection
• Fire and Rescue Service
• Department of General Services
• Department of Health and Human Services
• Department of Permitting Services
• Department of Police
• Office of Public Information
• Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions
• Department of Transportation

The workshop engaged representatives to progressively navigate the County’s response effort to a tornado that caused tremendous devastation. The scenario necessitated a large-scale response with the SPG collectively discussing logistics and supply chain management, operational communications, operational coordination, and public information and warning. The workshop was well received by all participants as the SPG continues to evolve and adapt to the threats Montgomery County may encounter.

MDERS staff were vital in the creation and execution of the SPG workshop. Deputy Director Hannah Thomas and Emergency Response Specialist Katie Weber jointly created the scenario with OEMHS Emergency Management Specialist Zachary Estess. Additionally, Deputy Director Thomas served as a co-facilitator during the workshop, Specialist Weber served as the logistics lead for the workshop, and Senior Emergency Response Specialist Peter McCullough served as the evaluation lead.

The exercise series will continue to test the response efforts of the Montgomery County EMG through additional discussion and operations-based exercises. MDERS will continue to collaborate with OEMHS throughout this process to enhance the cohesive emergency preparedness of Montgomery County.

The Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) hosted its eighth annual symposium on May 1^st and 2^nd, bringing industry leaders and distinguished speakers together to discuss pertinent topics related to homeland security threats and response efforts. This year’s symposium theme was Adapting to Emerging Threats: Essentials Insights for Homeland Security and Public Safety Leaders. The two-day virtual event empowered our regional partners and national participants to grasp emerging and evolving threats affecting the homeland security enterprise.

The program began with a panel discussion on emerging technologies in homeland security. Dione “Dee” Neely moderated the conversation and was joined by Arlington County Fire Chief David Povlitz, Associate Chief of Strategic Technology for Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security (CISA) Dr. Garfield Jones, Maryland Department of Information Technology Director Netta Squires, Chief Operating Officer of Frontier Foundry Nick Reese, and the Commander of the Miami Police Department’s Cyber Crimes Bureau Major George Perera. The panelists explored the impact of integrating the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance various emergency response capabilities, address data security challenges, and highlight ethical considerations faced by organizations when using advanced technology. Symposium attendees posed a variety of questions to the panelists to facilitate discourse that embraced the overall use of technology as a pathway to opportunity and modernization. The breadth of this discussion supplied participants with lessons learned and best practices for shaping the future of first responder agencies harnessing and implementing innovative technologies into their response operations.

Day two of the program featured discipline-specific homeland security topics, such as mass casualty incident care involving patients with penetrating trauma, combating human trafficking, water infrastructure resilience, and the response to the devastating Hawaii wildfires in 2023. The morning started with a hospital case study presentation by Dr. Kevin Menes of Menes Resuscitation, LLC. Dr. Menes, based on his unique experience with the 2017 Las Vegas shooting, stressed the significance of mass casualty preparedness for all disciplines. Response efforts to a large-scale incident can quickly become complicated and Dr. Kevin Menes shared his insights on how to manage an influx of patients and provided recommendations on how to plan and prepare for a potential mass casualty incident.

The hospital case study was followed by a presentation on human trafficking, including child and sex trafficking crimes. The presenters, Sergeant Greg Flores and Detective Julia Tafesh of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), discussed proactive investigation strategies implemented to arrest offenders and innovative approaches to reduce violent crimes associated with human trafficking. During the 2023 Formula 1 and Super Bowl, the pair analyzed how LVMPD’s tactical investigation methods have contributed to a significant number of arrests and recovery of victims.

Next, David McDonough and Eric “Joey” Curtis from the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) presented on adapting to an evolving climate. The pair analyzed the impact of climate change as a threat to water quality and steps agencies can take to plan, collaborate, mitigate, and respond to the threat extreme weather poses to this critical infrastructure. Mr. McDonough and Mr. Curtis concluded their presentation with a case study about the correlation between climate change and water main breaks and the cascading effects these events have on our region.

Wrapping up the program, a panel discussion delved into the deployment and response strategies during the 2023 Hawaii wildfires. Dr. Brett Russell, Lieutenant Victor “Tony” Galladora, and Captain Jason Light from Maryland Task Force 1 (MD-TF1) provided insights into the formidable challenges they faced, and the coordinated efforts taken. They highlighted the critical deployment of specialized safety operations, medical resources, incident personnel, and search equipment, all aimed at mitigating the devastating impact of the wildfires. The panelists explored how MD-TF1 performed large-scale searches of collapsed structures and vehicles to identify missing persons, recover valuables, and investigate loss of life. The MD-FT1 was equipped with an experienced medical team consisting of physicians and paramedics who treated life-threatening injuries and illnesses caused by the wildfires. While operating for seven days to mitigate the impact of the wildfires, the panelist emphasized the importance of mental health treatment and peer support to help incident personnel transition back into their daily roles.

The symposium garnered positive feedback from those who participated in this year’s program. The featured topics were carefully curated to equip the MDERS stakeholder community and other first responders with information and tools that will aid them in their ability to respond to emerging and evolving threats. MDERS extends sincere gratitude to all speakers for their participation, Montgomery Community Media for broadcasting the event, and the MDERS staff that were involved in the planning and execution of this year’s program. MDERS is excited to begin planning for next year’s symposium, the ninth iteration of this successful series.

On March 7, 2024, the Maryland Region V Healthcare Coalition participated in a Chemical Emergency Surge Tabletop Exercise (TTX) hosted by the Maryland Hospital Association (MHA) that examined the preparedness efforts taken and response actions initiated to a mass casualty incident related to widespread sarin exposure. The exercise was designed to review existing emergency care assets, evaluate roles, and identify operational gaps during a large-scale chemical incident. The Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) observed the exercise to gain better insights into healthcare response.

The Chemical Emergency Surge TTX covered three modules that engaged essential response components within the scenario, including initial recognition, community collaboration, and ongoing healthcare coordination. Each module contained information portraying a sarin attack at a large community gathering and the aftermath of chemical exposure casualties. The scenario emphasized the need to assess patients, decontaminate, treat injuries, and coordinate with public health and emergency managers. Throughout the exercise, participants from fire/EMS, public health, emergency management, acute-care facilities, and the Maryland Healthcare Coalition provided suggestions on specific response procedures utilized to reduce chemical exposure.

In the first module, units responded to a potential chemical agent release in a densely populated area with office buildings, retail space, and schools. Within minutes, multiple patients experiencing various symptoms arrived at nearby hospitals. During the response phase, participants discussed a variety of initial actions that involved the activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), preparing Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) operations, contacting poison control personnel, and deploying decontamination equipment to establish the immediate removal of contaminants. Considering the large acute exposure, participants reviewed real-time information sharing capabilities between hospitals and response partners particularly due to requesting specialized EMS transportation resources and disseminating critical incident information. In preparation for treating an influx of patients, these response activities set the foundation for ongoing healthcare coordination.

In the next phase, participants were informed of the evolving nature of the emergency with hospitals, clinics, physician offices, and other healthcare facilities becoming inundated with victims suffering from a range of adverse effects due to the sarin exposure. Participants referred and adhered to hospital protocols related to chemical emergency response to determine alternate areas for triage, on-site decontamination, and community evacuation. With the potential for misinformation and public concern, participants activated the EOC Joint Information Center (JIC) to coordinate public information with Healthcare Coalition members to provide consistent communication to mitigate mass panic.

While the actions of participating response agencies diminished the harm from chemical attack in the primary and immediate vicinity, participants explored other alternative methods to maintain and uphold regional healthcare coordination. Participants assessed mutual aid agreements to transport patients for ongoing care to facilities with appropriate resources, collect/dispose of contaminated materials, request staffing support, and execute situational awareness communication strategies among healthcare partners.

As the exercise concluded, participants enhanced their knowledge about the emergency notification processes and existing mutual aid agreements that were crucial in responding to and coordinating medical care. The discussion-based exercise examined the response capabilities across hospitals and healthcare facilities, revealing the necessity for more robust collaboration, resource allocation, and communication practices. MDERS supports active participation in exercises, viewing them as an indispensable training tool that fosters personnel development and optimizes operational efficiency.

For the last several years, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) collaborated with the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) to enhance PGPD’s leadership training opportunities. Both organizations identified the various courses offered by the Federal Bureau of Investigation-Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (FBI-LEEDA) as a useful opportunity to further educate PGPD supervisors, commanders, and executives.

The mission of FBI-LEEDA is to advance the science and art of law enforcement leadership by promoting the exchange of information to improve law enforcement management practices (FBI-LEEDA, n.d.). PGPD officers participated in a trilogy of courses, which were the Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute, and Executive Level Institute. Students engaged with senior law enforcement leadership that facilitated instruction during the challenging four-and-a-half-day courses.

All three courses build upon the lessons learned from each respective class to form better law enforcement officers. The leadership concepts covered during classroom discussions include:

• Police Leadership: This activity introduced students to the characteristics of leadership through supervisory, personal, and professional traits. Students were then led through a self-evaluation of their own leadership qualities and expectations.

• Supervisory Credibility & Authenticity: Students were challenged to define credibility and how it relates to leadership. Students developed an understanding of the myriad of influences on credibility and leadership from different target groups. A focus was placed on actions, mannerisms, and behaviors essential to establish and maintain credibility.
• Leading Generations: Supervisors have the potential to lead at least four generations of employees. The characteristics associated with Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z were reviewed to familiarize students with the nuances of leading each generation.

• Police Leadership in the 21^st Century: Introduced students to police strategic leadership concepts appropriate for the 21^st Students addressed current U.S. policing strategies and future trends.
• Bias and Diversity: Students explored the executive’s role in creating a sensitive workplace. Students and instructors discussed how negative bias-based issues can diminish the perception of police service delivery.
• Future Trends: Students learned about the future of policing by examining demographic shifts, advances in technology, and social shifts emerging in the U.S. requiring law enforcement departments to adapt.

Once students have successfully completed one segment of the series, they can proceed to one of the other courses associated with the trilogy. After completing all three courses, students are recognized as Trilogy Award recipients.

The FBI-LEEDA training series was selected as a unique leadership course opportunity to bolster professional development within PGPD. FBI-LEEDA has furnished PGPD officers with an enriching training series that encompasses all tiers of management, from first-line supervisors to executive-level management. PGPD continues to pursue advantageous opportunities to enhance command officer competency, law enforcement leadership, and professional development. Including FBI-LEEDA supports PGPD’s goal of establishing a well-rounded and sophisticated professional development framework that empowers law enforcement supervisors.

The training course garners positive feedback from PGPD officers, who exhibit receptiveness towards the imparted knowledge. Participants recognize the tangible benefits of acquiring leadership concepts and strategies, which offer practical solutions. Major Charles Magee of PGPD underscores the strategic importance of FBI-LEEDA leadership methods in enhancing the effectiveness of management-level officers.

Prince George’s County Police Department, Major Charles Magee

“From a training perspective, we have recognized the value of the FBI-LEEDA program in developing competent leadership, at every level. The overwhelmingly positive feedback received is a catalyst for our agency’s decision to host the FBI Trilogy series in Prince George’s County this year.”

MDERS remains dedicated to collaborating with our stakeholders to identify and address any training gaps that require support. As a testament to these ongoing efforts, as of Spring 2024, MDERS has supported 81 officers from PGPD in attending the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Series. This initiative solidifies MDERS’ unwavering commitment to fostering continuous improvement and excellence in law enforcement practices.

 

 

References

Who we are – FBI-LEEDA. FBI-LEEDA. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://fbileeda.org/page/Who_we_are

In November of 2023, four Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) Special Operations Division (SOD) personnel attended the Direct-Action Resource Center (DARC) Advanced Sniper Integration course (ASIC) in Little Rock, Arkansas. MDERS has continuously supported DARC training for PGPD stakeholders over the last several years, including the Advanced Operational Breaching Techniques (AOBT) course and levels one and two of the Kinetic Breachers course. The DARC Advanced Sniper Integration training allowed law enforcement stakeholders to practice and enhance their skills individually and as a cohesive unit.

DARC, founded by a former United States Army Green Beret, is situated within a secluded outdoor training site in Arkansas. It offers a diverse array of shooting locations for snipers, notably featuring a 1000-yard range atop a 40-60 ft. platform. During the training, PGPD SOD personnel honed their skills in several advanced areas, including environmental condition adjustments, long-distance night shooting, angle shooting, primary/alternate shooting positions, overwatch and operations techniques, as well as vehicle hide-sight set-up. These skills, along with many others, are poised to enhance PGPD SOD’s operational readiness in addressing a wide spectrum of incidents, including those involving active assailants and barricaded individuals.

The PGPD SOD officers attending the DARC course engaged in a comprehensive training program aimed at seamlessly integrating a proficient sniper/observer team into the support framework for intricate and expansive tactical operations. A sniper/observer team is primarily comprised of four to six officers, all trained to fulfill both sniper and observer roles interchangeably. This six-day course allows snipers to refine their skills across diverse environments, including day and night operations, live-fire support of tactical ground operations, and flat-range operations. The second half of the course coincides with an Advanced Operational Breaching Techniques course, allowing participants to collaborate with another training class during live fire building clearance exercises, as well as interior and exterior explosive breaching scenarios.

Along with the four PGPD SOD personnel, two MDERS representatives, Hannah Thomas, and Elizabeth Adams, had the opportunity to attend and observe the training. Their presence coincided with the latter part of the training, during which the two courses, Advanced Sniper Integration Techniques and Advanced Operational Breaching Techniques, merged and conducted joint exercises. Hannah Thomas, a Senior Emergency Response Specialist with MDERS, recognized how crucial this training was and stated:

Senior Emergency Response Specialist Hannah Thomas

“Participants in this course experienced an unparalleled level of instruction. Witnessing the course content delivered to PGPD officers at  an exceptionally high standard was truly remarkable.”

Emergency Response Specialist Elizabeth Adams

“The training staff and PGPD SOD personnel welcomed MDERS representatives warmly and provided valuable insight into the essential and necessary training they were receiving and how attending DARC ultimately benefits their tactical operations.”

PGPD SOD will continue to receive ongoing support from MDERS to participate in future DARC training sessions, ensuring sustained skill development in alignment with the MDERS strategic plan. DARC remains one of MDERS’s most trusted and superior training providers. With their support, MDERS stakeholders have access to a contingent of subject matter experts to help them refine and enhance their skills in tactics and strategies for sniper operations.

For more information about DARC, please visit https://www.darc-usa.com/courses

In recent years, medical facilities have experienced an uptick of threats and violent events.[1] Within this increased threat landscape, it is imperative that medical facilities and emergency response agencies jointly prepare for active assailant incidents. The Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) facilitated a Tabletop (TTX)-In-A Box with partners from MedStar Montgomery Medical Center (MMMC), Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS), Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OEMHS), and Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). The exercise was designed to examine the initial actions of each participating entity and their ability to establish a Unified Command (UC) during an active assailant incident. This exercise will help bolster the response capabilities for each discipline to respond to an active assailant incident in a medical setting.

To test each discipline’s response capabilities, participating agencies determined that a discussion based TTX would be the best approach. MDERS’s TTX-In-A-Box program is a systematic, scalable, and economical approach for developing and enhancing critical capabilities that foster interdisciplinary and interjurisdictional collaboration and coordination. The tool consists of a portable kit containing all materials required to run the hybrid exercise. For these exercises, work groups are formed and comprised of subject matter experts (SMEs) from relevant disciplines. In this exercise, the work group consisted of SMEs from MMMC, MCFRS, OEMHS, and MCPD. The work group provided invaluable input to craft a scenario to test the participants’ ability to adequately respond to an active assailant incident occurring in a hospital setting.

Eleven participants served as players during the exercise and were joined by over 45 observers. The exercise was guided by injects from a master scenario exercise list (MSEL) to simulate a realistic, continuous flow of information. Participants had to sift through pertinent and irrelevant information to determine the appropriate response in a dynamic situation. In the early stages of the exercise, each entity was responding within the framework of their discipline-specific policies and plans. As the scenario progressed, the entities formed a UC to make collaborative decisions and delegate tasks to the appropriate agency.

Overall, this exercise produced useful conversations about communication channels between participating agencies, triage care to victims, establishing a unified command, positioning of fire and police staging areas, dissemination of information to the public, reunification processes, reestablishment of healthcare within the facility, and patient movement to other healthcare facilities. These conversations will continue between partners to resolve identified gaps to enhance response operations.

MDERS remains committed to providing ongoing exercise support to our stakeholders in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. These exercises are tailored to bolster response capabilities and fortify the resilience of our communities. Through these ongoing efforts, our goal is to ensure readiness and efficiency in handling emergencies while safeguarding the well-being of our residents.

[1] Glatter, R., & Papadakos, P. (n.d.). The Epidemic of Violence in American Hospitals [Review of The Epidemic of Violence in American Hospitals]. Time.com; Time. Retrieved February 13, 2024, from https://time.com/6337450/the-epidemic-of-violence-in-american-hospitals/.