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.

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.

Building on the success of our presentations at the Maryland Emergency Management Association (MDEMA) Symposium earlier this year, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) continued to showcase our stakeholder’s cutting-edge initiatives on a national stage. Last month, MDERS and the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) had the privilege of presenting at the National Homeland Security Conference (NHSC) in Miami, Florida, one of the most significant gatherings of homeland security professionals in the country.

The NHSC brings together professionals from various sectors, including homeland security, law enforcement, fire, and emergency management. Participants range from federal agency officials and nonprofit representatives to business owners, academic leaders, and key decision-makers. This conference serves as a crucial platform for sharing insights into emerging trends and technologies in the field of homeland security.

At this year’s conference, MDERS and MCPD proudly presented within the Emerging Technologies track, focusing on integrating drones into emergency response operations. Our presentation, which built upon the foundation laid at the MDEMA Symposium, emphasized the innovative ways drones are utilized to enhance situational awareness, improve decision-making, and, ultimately, save lives during critical incidents.

“Presenting at the National Homeland Security Conference was an exceptional experience,” said Hannah Thomas, Deputy Director of Operational Support. “We had the opportunity to engage with sUAS operators from across the country, exchanging knowledge and best practices. The connections we made are truly invaluable resources.”

The presentation resonated with a broader and more diverse audience, sparking meaningful discussions on the future of drone technology in emergency management and the wider field of public safety. Attendees were particularly interested in the practical applications of drones for real-time incident assessment, search and rescue operations, and support during large-scale emergencies. The session highlighted how drones can be integrated into existing emergency response frameworks, demonstrating their potential to transform traditional approaches to public safety.

Participating at the NHSC was an invaluable experience, allowing MDERS and MCPD to contribute to the national conversation on emerging technologies in homeland security. MDERS looks forward to continuing our work in this area, exploring new ways to leverage technology for the safety and security of our communities.

With a rapidly evolving landscape of security challenges, institutions such as the Naval Postgraduate School – Center for Homeland Defense and Security (NPS-CHDS) located in Monterey, California, aim to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Emergency Response Specialist Oscar Coripuna was accepted into the NPS-CHDS Emergence Program, marking a significant milestone in his professional development, and equipping him with the knowledge and tools to implement effective organizational change within the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS).

CHDS was established to cultivate a collaborative national cohort of emerging homeland security leaders by enhancing their skills with advanced proficiencies in organizational collaboration, policy formulation, and innovative strategies. In partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), CHDS offers a wide range of competitive programs that focus on assisting participants in developing the strategies necessary to combat, prepare, and respond to public safety threats across the United States. All programs are designed to foster and prioritize leadership development to reshape the perspective of public safety officials towards the intricacies of an evolving world and the multifaceted mission of homeland security.

The CHDS Emergence Program is a six-month online and network-based learning experience that includes two-week-long in-person classroom sessions. The program provides an educational forum that brings together a diverse group of local, state, and federal government professionals to delve into cutting-edge research, collaborative problem-solving, and interdisciplinary cooperation. A significant part of Emergence is an innovation lab used to research and construct ideas for change that participants brief to their agency leadership and implement to solve organizational challenges. The cohort consisted of 28 participants representing disciplines from law enforcement, fire/rescue/EMS, emergency management, public health, healthcare, and national intelligence. As a participant, Oscar was immersed in a dynamic environment exploring emerging homeland security threats and learning about various potential risks that will influence public safety entities to adjust.

During the first in-residence, the program covered a wide array of relevant topics, ranging from critical thinking, climate change, effective communication, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and risk management. Engaging lectures and thought-provoking discussions fostered a holistic understanding of current challenges facing our nation and the world. Oscar’s time in Monterey was transformative with the exposure to groundbreaking research and real-world case studies that broadened his perspective and sharpened his analytical skills. Collaborating with peers from diverse professional backgrounds enriched his learning experience, enabling him to gain insights and innovative approaches to problem-solving.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the opportunity to work on his change initiative project for MDERS. Drawing upon the actionable feedback gained from the program, he is working on developing a comprehensive project continuity strategy that helps capture historical information and the status of MDERS initiatives to address knowledge gaps within the Operational Support Directorate. From refining the project continuity of MDERS initiatives to incorporating a formal transition process as a solution, every aspect of Oscar’s project was informed by the invaluable lessons learned at CHDS. Oscar believes that his residency in Monterey transcends the confines of the classroom due to the numerous lessons learned applicable to real-life emergencies.

Emergency Response Specialist Oscar Coripuna 

“During the entirety of the Emergence Program, the opportunity to discuss strategies to combat current and future homeland security threats among like-minded professionals from around the nation was extraordinary. The insights gained from these discussions have allowed me to think critically about emerging public safety threats that can impact the Maryland-National Capital Region.”

As Oscar’s experience at the NPS-CHDS Emergence Program was empowering, he is eager to learn more about the resources and partnerships needed to tackle complex security challenges that are evolving. MDERS is proud to have Oscar represent the Maryland-National Capital Region (NCR) and commends his dedication to undertaking opportunities that enhance his expertise to better serve our stakeholder community. After his graduation in June 2024, Oscar is eager to incorporate the invaluable lessons from CHDS into his work to enhance response operations with regional partners in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties

For more information on NPS-CHDS, click here.

Since October of 2023, the Maryland-National Capital Emergency Response System (MDERS) has collaborated with the Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) to enhance their Patrol Scenario Training (PST) program. This joint effort aims to modernize the training methods used at the police academy, ensuring new officers are better prepared to serve their communities and keep themselves, colleagues, and members of the public safe.

PSTs are the final step in the PGPD Training Academy that evaluates student officers’ ability to demonstrate mastery of the skills learned throughout the nine-month program. These scenario-based assessments test student officers’ proficiency in meeting the Maryland Police and Corrections Training Commission’s (MPCTC) required objectives. PSTs simulate real-life situations that officers are likely to encounter in the field such as domestic violence, disorderly persons, citizen and business robberies, and many more. This provides a practical, hands-on assessment of their skills and decision-making abilities.

Recognizing the need for a more efficient and objective evaluation process, PGPD partnered with MDERS to update various aspects of the PST program. The key initiatives included:

• Increasing Objectivity in Grading: The new system aims to standardize the grading process, ensuring that all student officers are assessed fairly and consistently.
• Reducing Evaluation Time: Streamlining the evaluation process will allow instructors to spend less time on assessments and more time on training and development.
• Creating an Easy-to-Use System: The revamped PST program is designed to be user-friendly, enabling academy staff to easily implement and use it while effectively tracking all met and unmet objectives.
• System Storage and Accessibility: The new system saves all evaluations on a shared folder, enhancing accessibility and organization.
• Changing, Removing, and Creating New Scenarios: The new program provides different scenarios than the last several years of testing. This allowed for a greater focus on de-escalation tactics and the ability of student officers to provide medical care to role players.

The collaboration between MDERS and PGPD represents a significant step forward in police training methodology. By incorporating these improvements, the PST program becomes more efficient and effective in preparing student officers for the complexities of their roles. Enhanced objectivity ensures that evaluations are fair, while reduced evaluation times and ease of use allow for a more focused training environment. Additionally, MDERS and PGPD staff had the opportunity to present this new program during the 2024 Maryland Emergency Management Association (MDEMA) Annual Symposium in May, providing an overview of the challenges faced and problems solved.

As the revamped PST program is fully implemented, PGPD and MDERS will continue to monitor its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments. This commitment to continuous improvement underscores the dedication of both organizations to providing the highest standard of training for law enforcement officers. By focusing on objectivity, efficiency, and usability, this initiative promises to better prepare new officers to serve and protect their communities safely and effectively.

The Maryland Emergency Management Association (MDEMA) Symposium is an effort to bring together emergency management professionals and associated agencies to discuss various topics to enhance all phases of response efforts. To support this effort, at the 2024 iteration of this symposium representatives from the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) and partner agencies showcased five initiatives that have significantly enhanced response capabilities in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties.  These presentations covered the incorporation of small unmanned aerial systems (sUASs) as first responders for the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), integration of the Public Access Trauma Care (PATC) program into the public school systems in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, enhancement of the Prince George’s Couty Police Department’s (PGPD) Patrol Scenario Training (PST), reinforcement of incident command system (ICS) principles during training for MCPD officers, and strengthening inter-jurisdictional structural collapse response. These initiatives have collectively bolstered response capabilities for first responders in the Maryland-National Capital Region (MD-NCR).

On the first day of the conference, as part of the main session, MDERS Senior Emergency Response Specialist Hannah Thomas was joined by MCPD Captain Jason Cokinos and Lieutenant Doug Miller to present on the department’s innovative Drone as a First Responder (DFR). This program prepositions sUAS platforms, commonly known as drones, to provide rapid situational assessments to emergency calls in Silver Spring. The presenters highlighted the program’s achievements in tracking suspects involved in various crimes and outlined the financial costs, operational logistics, data collection, and transparency efforts required for sustaining the program. Due to its success, MCPD plans to expand the DFR program to several other locations in the county.

The next presentation examined the inclusion of the PATC program into Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) and Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). MDERS Senior Emergency Response Specialist Peter McCullough and MDERS Emergency Response Specialist Katie Weber provided information to the audience about the supplies distributed and the incorporation of PATC into the school’s curriculum. To date, MDERS has provided 774 5-pack kits to MCPS and 253 5-pack kits to PGCPS. This is in addition to 84 training bags for each jurisdiction to assist with hands-on training for students. Although the program is well received by MCPS and PGCPS, the speakers identified several factors that MDERS had to navigate to get PATC into the schools. Issues such as replenishment of supplies, installation of wall-mounted cabinets, appropriateness of the content for students, and adherence to regulations all were discussed with partners before the adoption of PATC into each public school system.

After that presentation, MDERS Emergency Response Specialist Elizabeth Adams and PGPD Corporal Juan Penafiel detailed the advancements made to PGPD’s PST curriculum. This program is an aspect of the mandated training for student officers that tests their ability to demonstrate skills, tactics, and techniques learned during the training academy. In coordination with PGPD, MDERS revamped their evaluation process and documentation process to create a more streamlined and objective evaluation process. These amendments have alleviated previous concerns to allow evaluators to closely focus on the actions of student officers and capture all needed data points for assessment.

Subsequent to that presentation, former MDERS Co-Director Nicole Markuski and MCPD Lt. Chris Hackley shared the joint effort between both agencies to provide an ICS refresher to all MCPD sergeants. This effort entailed two tabletop exercises that challenged participants to navigate the complexities of an active assailant incident at a mall and school. The participants were continuously fed new information throughout the exercises to test and evaluate their ability to exert control over a complex emergency. The exercises provided invaluable information for MCPD to identify gaps and improve their overall response capabilities.

Lastly, Prince George’s County Fire Department (PGFD) Assistant Chief Jon Bender and Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service (MCFRS) Battalion Chief Doug Hinkle discussed progress in cross-jurisdictional structural collapse response. Both departments have intensified joint training efforts and have made strides to closely align their equipment caches to promote familiarity during large-scale incidents. MDERS has supported equipment acquisitions for both departments and training initiatives which will culminate in a two-day full-scale exercise in the spring of 2025.

The MDEMA Conference served as a platform to showcase MDERS and partner agencies’ endeavors in bolstering response capabilities in the Maryland-National Capital Region. MDERS staff eagerly anticipate sharing further advancements at the next conference.

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.