The Maryland National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) recently marked its 10-year anniversary with a commemorative event at the Prince George’s County Public Safety Range. This milestone celebration brought together public safety officials, emergency response professionals, and other stakeholders to reflect on MDERS’s impact and advancements over the past decade. The event included speeches from key figures, an insightful presentation on emerging technologies, and an expo showcasing state-of-the-art emergency response equipment procured by MDERS for the benefit of our stakeholders.

Since its creation, MDERS has played a crucial role in enhancing the preparedness and response capabilities of emergency services in the Maryland-National Capital Region. Funded through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) grant, the organization has continuously worked to improve coordination, training, and technological resources for first responders, healthcare professionals, emergency managers, and other partners. As MDERS continues to grow, its leaders and stakeholders took the opportunity to celebrate past successes and look ahead to future advancements in emergency response and public safety.

Reflections on MDERS’s Contributions

The event commenced with an introduction by Lauren Collins, Director of MDERS, followed by an address from Luke Hodgson, Director of the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS) for Montgomery County.

Director Hodgson, who previously led MDERS for nine years, shared his reflections on the organization’s most significant contributions to the National Capital Region:

“Over the past decade, MDERS has provided countless contributions to the response community and the public it serves in the form of capability enhancements that span multiple disciplines and jurisdictions. In countless crises over the years, these capabilities have brought about improved outcomes for an incalculable number of people. However, it is my opinion that the most impactful contribution that MDERS has provided to the response community and the public we serve is the development of lifelong relationships between public safety practitioners across and beyond the Maryland-National Capital Region. These relationships, built upon trust, respect, and collaboration, have brought about innovation and growth that span disciplines and jurisdictions. They are the backbone of our uniquely capable response community, bringing about planning, training, and exercising during times of calm and unparalleled collaborative response during times of crisis. The community is fortunate to have the framework of MDERS to build and maintain these relationships that bring about superior service to the residents and visitors of the area.”

These relationships are vital in both training environments and real-life crises. Through consistent planning, training, and joint exercises, MDERS has helped create a response community that operates with seamless coordination. This framework allows first responders to deploy strategies efficiently in times of calm and act with precision during crises. Director Hodgson credited MDERS with laying the foundation for this collaboration and ensuring that the region remains well-equipped to handle emergencies.

Emerging Technology Presentation

As part of the event’s agenda, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence experts Netta Squires and Nick Reese delivered a presentation on emerging technologies. Their discussion covered advancements in AI-driven threat detection, cybersecurity resilience, and the integration of digital tools in public safety operations. 

They highlighted how artificial intelligence can enhance real-time decision-making for first responders, streamline data analysis, and improve threat anticipation. They also addressed the increasing cybersecurity challenges that emergency response agencies face, emphasizing the importance of securing digital infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. Their insights underscored the need for continuous adaptation and investment in technology to keep pace with the rapidly changing landscape of emergency response.

Networking and Expo

Following the presentations, attendees participated in a networking session and explored an expo showcasing cutting-edge emergency response equipment. The exhibition featured items from the following departments:

• Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service (MCFRS)- Technical Rescue Trailer
• Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department (PGFD)- Command Competency Simulation
• Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD)- Bearcat Armored Vehicle, Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) Van, and Augmented Reality Training System
• Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD)- Vehicle Barriers and Trailer

All the showcased equipment was acquired through UASI grant funding, demonstrating the impact of federal resources in strengthening regional emergency preparedness and response efforts. These assets have significantly improved response capabilities, offering enhanced mobility, communication, and situational awareness for first responders.

Looking Ahead: The Future of MDERS

The Maryland-NCR Emergency Response System’s 10-year anniversary event highlighted the organization’s dedication to strengthening emergency preparedness through collaboration, innovation, and investment in new technologies. Over the past decade, MDERS has provided critical resources, fostered professional networks, and enhanced the region’s emergency response capabilities.

As MDERS enters its second decade, we remain committed to advancing emergency response strategies, integrating emerging technologies, and building stronger partnerships to ensure the safety and security of the Maryland-National Capital Region. The continued investment in state-of-the-art solutions and professional development will be essential in shaping the future of emergency response.

Director Collins stated, “As I look ahead, I’m most excited about the continued growth and evolution of Maryland ERS. The system has made incredible strides over the past decade, and the future holds even greater opportunities to enhance emergency preparedness, response coordination, and stakeholder engagement across the region. One of the most exciting aspects is the ongoing innovation in technology and training. By integrating cutting-edge tools and data-driven decision-making, we can strengthen our stakeholders’ ability to respond effectively to complex incidents. Another key focus is the continued professional development of our personnel. Investing in leadership, training programs, and interdisciplinary exercises will ensure that Maryland ERS remains at the forefront of emergency response excellence.”

Moving forward, MDERS will continue to evolve in response to emerging threats and challenges. By fostering collaboration and leveraging technological advancements, the organization and its partners will remain at the forefront of public safety, ensuring a resilient and effective emergency management system for years to come.

Written by John Finnerin

A structural collapse can quickly evolve into a complex response that necessitates specially trained personnel, specific and technical equipment, and support from neighboring departments and regional assets. The nature of these unique situations warrants in-depth planning and training to adequately prepare fire department resources. To assess the structural collapse capabilities of the Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service (MCFRS) and Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department (PGFD), and as part of a larger evaluation, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) hosted two tabletop exercises (TTXs) in early March. The exercises were effective in assessing both departments’ ability to communicate, coordinate resources and personnel, and implement response strategies.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has defined a structural collapse event: “when internal load bearing structural elements fail, a building will collapse into itself and exterior walls are pulled into the falling structure” (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, n.d.).  Natural or man-made actions can cause these incidents and vary in scope, severity, and potential operational duration (OSHA, n.d.).

Both MCFRS and PGFD maintain an internal capability to respond to incidents involving structural collapse. Most commonly, both departments deploy these resources for minor incidents like a vehicle inadvertently crashing into a building, which causes minimal damage. However, MCFRS and PGFD can integrate with local, regional, and federal resources during large-scale incidents.

Prominent events can also often be the catalyst for internal review of a department’s capabilities. In the aftermath of the 2021 Surfside collapse, MCFRS and PGFD began a process with MDERS to evaluate and enhance each department’s existing structural collapse capability. These three entities followed the POETEE (planning, organizing, equipping, training, exercising, and evaluating) model to have a streamlined framework for departmental improvements. Adhering to this meticulous approach has produced measurable achievements for both departments with more training for personnel, and the acquisition of specialized equipment such as Paratech Guardian Systems, Bluetooth listening devices, and most notably a technical rescue trailer for MCFRS.

As part of the POETEE model, MDERS, MCFRS, and PGFD have recently been coordinating exercises to gauge the current status of each department’s structural collapse capability. The first phase of the exercise portion was two TTXs. The goals for these TTXs were to:

• Evaluate the ability of MCFRS and PGFD to cohesively integrate personnel and equipment into a unified response to a structural collapse incident.
• Assess each department’s command structures’ ability to manage the initial response and transfer oversight to special operations.
• Examine each department’s procedures for establishing a unified command, coordinating resources, and delegating tasks to the appropriate personnel and entities to ensure seamless incident management.
• Determine if each department has the needed trained personnel and specialized equipment to effectively respond to a structural collapse incident.

Two scenarios, one in Montgomery County and one in Prince George’s County, were devised to test each department’s ability to effectively manage and respond to a large structural collapse incident. A battalion chief from each department spearheaded the response, coordinating with specialized personnel. The exercise strained participants to identify, parse, delegate, and overcome the litany of tasks associated with these complex responses. The TTXs were well received by the participants and yielded areas for further discussion.

These TTXs were engineered to focus on command-level decision making, but the next exercise as part of this process will be a two-day full-scale exercise with participants from MCFRS and PGFD. This larger exercise allows aspects from the TTXs to be implemented and assess the technical skills of each department.

 

Source

OSHA. (n.d.). Structural Collapse Guide. Retrieved September 22, 2024, https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/guides/structural-collapse

On March 3rd, the Maryland-NCR Emergency Response System (MDERS), in collaboration with the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), conducted a tabletop exercise (TTX) designed to enhance command and control capabilities in response to a high-threat incident. The scenario, which involved two active shooters entering a school, provided an opportunity for command staff to refine their decision-making and coordination strategies in a complex, high-pressure environment.

The exercise challenged participants to manage resources effectively, maintain situational awareness, and make critical decisions under stress while coordinating with multiple law enforcement agencies and Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service (MCFRS).

Key Objectives and Outcomes

First-On-Scene Leadership
Recognizing the importance of immediate action, the exercise included scenarios where patrol officers had to operate independently for the first 5–10 minutes before reinforcements arrived. This tested their ability to make critical decisions under pressure, communicate situational updates, and initiate the foundation for an organized response.

Command & Control
One of the primary objectives was to assess the ability of command staff to establish and maintain operational control during the unfolding crisis. The exercise tested how well commanders could structure their response, delegate responsibilities, and adapt to changing conditions in real time.

Resource Management
With a multi-agency response being a crucial component of any large-scale emergency, the exercise evaluated the ability of participants to coordinate resources across different jurisdictions.

Decision-Making Under Stress
The scenario placed significant emphasis on enhancing participants’ ability to make rapid, high-stakes decisions with incomplete information. Through multiple simulated injects and radio transmissions, command staff were required to prioritize response actions, manage evolving threats, and make strategic choices that impacted the overall outcome of the exercise.

Situational Awareness & Tracking
Ensuring personnel accountability and effectively tracking resources was another critical objective. Participants refined their skills in staging management, tracking deployed teams, and maintaining real-time awareness of the operational environment. This aspect of the exercise reinforced the need for robust information-sharing and disciplined resource allocation.

MDERS remains committed to providing ongoing exercise support to our Montgomery and Prince George’s County law enforcement stakeholders. These exercises are tailored to bolster response capabilities, fortify our communities’ resilience, and allow for improvement through the after-action report (AAR) process.

Written by Hannah Thomas

On February 5, 2025, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) hosted a tabletop exercise (TTX) focused on interjurisdictional public order response. This three-hour exercise brought together participants from the Maryland State Police (MSP), Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) to evaluate their preparedness levels for managing large-scale demonstrations.  The primary objectives of the exercise were to assess interagency collaboration and decision-making during planned and unplanned public order events. Participants analyzed resource deployment, communication strategies, and tactical decision-making, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Key discussions focused on crowd management strategies, identifying appropriate moments for intervention, and planning for potential escalations.

Public order events can range from planned demonstrations and large gatherings to spontaneous incidents that escalate quickly. These events also require public officials to balance demonstrators’ First Amendment rights and intervening, when necessary, to ensure public safety. Law enforcement agencies need extensive coordination, training, and manpower, both internally and externally, to manage these events.

To evaluate the current personnel, training, communication, tactics, and equipment for each stakeholder agency, MDERS collaborated with MSP, MCPD, MCSO, and PGPD to assess an interjurisdictional response in each Montgomery and Prince George’s County. MDERS formed a workgroup with representatives from these law enforcement agencies and over a two-month planning period developed two distinct scenarios:

1. A pre-planned demonstration, where law enforcement had prior knowledge and time to coordinate resources. This scenario was set in Montgomery County, with MCPD leading the planning phase and PGPD providing valuable input.
2. An impromptu gathering that rapidly escalated, requiring immediate response and decision-making. This scenario was set in Prince George’s County, with PGPD providing immediate response and requesting assistance from MCPD.

In an innovative twist, MDERS introduced maneuverable demonstrator pieces to mimic the dynamic crowd movements during these events. The incorporation of crowd movements, in conjunction with vehicle manipulatives, across a large map replicated a more realistic scenario for exercise participants to strategize and manage the incident.

After the exercise, MDERS distributed a short feedback survey, allowing participants to highlight strengths and identify areas for improvement in exercise facilitation. Additionally, participants provided feedback on the training and discussed potential future training opportunities. Based on the feedback received and the actions evaluated, MDERS will create an after-action report to assess the overall effectiveness of the exercise and inform future planning.

The success of this exercise underscores MDERS’s commitment to proactive preparedness and regional coordination. By training together in a structured, discussion-based environment, law enforcement agencies can refine their response strategies and enhance their ability to manage real-world public order incidents effectively.

Written by Elizabeth Adams

In October and December of 2024, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) facilitated two tabletop exercises (TTXs) at different Adventist HealthCare (AHC) facilities with stakeholders from AHC, the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS), and the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). Each exercise focused on the initial actions of staff at each respective Adventist HealthCare facility and first responders during a critical incident involving an active assailant. The exercises aimed to examine AHC policies and procedures and bolster their response capabilities. Across both exercises, 35 participants were selected by their respective agencies’ leadership based on their probability of responding to an active assailant event.

For these exercises, a workgroup was formed that was comprised of subject matter experts (SMEs) from AHC, MCFRS, MCPD, and MDERS. To test AHC’s response capabilities, participating agencies determined that a discussion-based TTX would be the best approach. MDERS’s approach to TTXs is a systematic, scalable, and economical approach for developing and enhancing critical capabilities that foster interdisciplinary and interjurisdictional collaboration and coordination. The workgroup utilized agency plans, policies, and procedures as well as their background knowledge and experience to develop a scenario that tested the participants’ ability to respond to an active assailant incident at each medical facility based upon agreed objectives. The objectives were developed based on the capabilities that AHC wanted to test, such as operational communications and operational coordination.

During the exercise’s development, a master scenario events list (MSEL) was created to supply realistic injects into the evolving threat. These were accompanied by expected actions from each agency to allow evaluators to review and examine the actions taken by participants. A list of discussion questions was also developed that targeted each objective.

The first exercise was held in October 2024 at AHC Shady Grove Medical Center (SGMC) and involved the Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation Hospital, which is located in the SGMC complex. The second exercise was held in December 2024 at AHC White Oak Medical Center. Each exercise was scheduled for three hours, during which participants worked through the scenarios and discussed the actions and priorities of their agencies during the scenario.

After the conclusion of exercise play at each exercise, a hotwash was performed with all participants, evaluators, and observers. This forum allowed MDERS to capture immediate feedback related to the exercise and facilitate discussions related to agency actions. Lastly, an anonymous evaluation form was sent with additional questions that sought additional input about the design and execution of each TTX.

Each exercise allowed participants to have open conversations about critical issues such as the ability of the hospital to maintain operations during and after a critical incident, how internal notifications are structured and disseminated to staff, and how responding agencies would integrate their operations and form a unified command (UC). The After-Action Reports (AARs) that were developed for each exercise will provide guidance to AHC for the improvement of their policies and procedures.

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

Written by: Katie Dwyer

As Hurricane Helene approached the Gulf Coast in September 2024, communities braced for impact, aware of the potential devastation that heavy rains, flooding, and high winds could bring. Amid the regional anxiousness, an innovative measure known as the FloodWall created by AquaFence, a state-of-the-art flood defense system, emerged playing a crucial role outside the Tampa Bay Hospital. This advanced barrier not only protected vital healthcare infrastructure but also showcased how technology can significantly enhance resilience against natural disasters.

Hurricanes can have devastating effects on communities and critical infrastructure, leading to loss of life, economic damage, and long-term social and environmental disruption. The impacts are often felt most in vulnerable regions and pose significant challenges to recovery. Communities can face damage to buildings and homes from wind damage, flooding and power outages. These effects not only impact communities but also have significant consequences for critical infrastructure. Hospitals are essential during emergencies and hurricanes can render them non-functional due to structural damage, flooding, and power loss. Unfortunately, during Hurricane Katrina, Memorial Hospital in New Orleans suffered catastrophic flooding and power outages that incapacitated its ability to be operational. The lower floors of the hospital were submerged, leaving patients stranded. Vital equipment was unusable due to the loss of power. Among those major obstacles, the extensive flooding caused delayed evacuations leading to avoidable fatalities. The ability to reduce harm to communities and critical infrastructure, as Hurricane Katrina caused to Memorial Hospital, is vital to community sustainability during hurricanes.

The AquaFence is a leading floodwall, with its flexible, modular flood protection system that is designed to create a watertight barrier against rising waters. The easily deployable walls are made with durable, lightweight materials and contain an adjustable locking mechanism to interlink multiple segments into a continuous wall. The FloodWall utilizes a no fill system that allows the barrier to be deployed without any need to alter structures and without the need to fill with sand. Versatility and adaptability are crucial in dynamic emergency situations, where every minute counts.

The use of AquaFence in hurricane response highlights a crucial shift towards integrating advanced technologies in emergency response and disaster management. As climate change continues to escalate the frequency and intensity of storms, innovative solutions like AquaFence will become increasingly important. During Hurricane Helene, the Tampa Bay Hospital was faced with daunting devastation while recovering from Hurricane Milton a week prior. By thinking ahead and choosing the AquaFence as one the primary defenses against the hurricane, they were able to effectively mitigate the flood risk and demonstrate its vital role in emergency preparedness and response.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season was marked by above-average activity, with 15 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes reaching Category 3 status or higher. Coastal regions, especially in the U.S. Gulf Coast, Florida, and the Caribbean, were heavily impacted, facing storm surges, flooding, and significant wind damage. Several innovative approaches were employed to mitigate damage, including advanced forecasting technologies using AI and drones, the deployment of flood-resistant building materials, and the enhancement of storm surge barriers. Efforts in restoring coastal ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs, helped provide natural defenses, while parametric insurance and climate risk financing offered quicker recovery funds. Despite the season’s intensity, these advancements in resilience, technology, and planning helped reduce the impact on vulnerable regions and improve recovery times.

Utilizing innovations in technology, infrastructure design, and disaster management can significantly reduce the harm caused by hurricanes to communities and critical infrastructure. These innovations not only improve preparedness and response efforts but also enhance long-term resilience. The Maryland-National Capital-Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) strives to promote and incorporate innovative solutions among stakeholders by creating the Emerging Homeland Security Technology Pilot, also known as the Innovation Fund. This initiative invites stakeholders to submit proposals for innovative solutions that could enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of emergency response efforts. Once ideas are submitted, they are presented at Steering Committee meetings, where members evaluate and vote on which solutions will be funded. Recent examples of innovative procurements include monitoring and alert systems for technical rescue operations, advanced ultrasound equipment for field injuries, and virtual reality equipment to replicate realistic emergency scenarios. MDERS and stakeholder agencies continue to seek new technology to contribute to building safer, more resilient communities in the National-Capital Region.

Hurricane Helene served as a firm reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the destruction that comes along side it but also showcased the power of innovation in disaster response. Proactive measures can protect jurisdictions from flooding and ensure critical infrastructure, such as the Tampa Bay Hospital, remain operational during these emergencies. Embracing innovative technologies is key to enhancing preparedness for natural disasters and ensuring that we are equipped to face the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Written by Melinda Lacek

References

Aquafence Floodwall: Premier flood barrier solution. AquaFence Flood Protection. (n.d.). https://www.aquafence.com/floodwall

Jennifer Sangalang, R. N. and Y. T. (2024, September 27). Hospital surrounded by 3 sides of Bay Water in Tampa went viral, avoided Hurricane Helene storm surge. Tribune. https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/weather/hurricane/2024/09/27/hurricane-helene-tampa-hospital-flood-video-aquafence/75407878007/

Sullivan, D. (2024, September 25). Tampa general Builds “AquaFence” as area hospitals brace for helene. Tampa Bay Times. https://www.tampabay.com/hurricane/2024/09/25/tampa-general-hospital-hurricane-helene-emergency-room-preparations/

This past December, the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) collaborated with the Prince George’s County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (PG OHS/EM) to host an offering of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP). The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) HSEEP course provides a framework for participants to effectively manage every facet of exercise planning. The collective approach from MDERS and PG OHS/EM allowed instructors to share valuable lessons in conjunction with the prescribed course materials. The fusion of personal subject matter expertise and FEMA’s curriculum provided attendees with invaluable knowledge to prepare them for overseeing the planning, execution, and evaluation of future exercises.

Man-made and natural threats pose a consistent danger to communities. To mitigate the damage from these emergencies, FEMA developed the Preparedness Cycle to best position jurisdictions to confront evolving disasters. Each aspect of the cycle is imperative, but HSEEP focuses on the cycle’s exercise and evaluation portion.  Both discussion- and operations-based exercises are the key cog to testing the readiness of a community and/or departmental plan for a specific or nondescript emergency. The type, complexity, and resources required for each exercise vary greatly. HSEEP provides a baseline to prepare for each exercise type and consider the requirements needed to effectuate that exercise. At the conclusion of an exercise, a review and evaluation of the performance of exercise participants vis-à-vis the respective plan is critical to identify gaps and enhance the operational procedures within a community. Both phases inform the next step, planning, and reset the Preparedness Cycle.

The HSEEP course is a two-day lesson with this iteration held in a training room at PG OHS/EM’s office located in Hyattsville, Maryland. There are six modules, HSEEP Fundamentals, HSEEP Program Management, Exercise Design and Development, Exercise Conduct, Exercise Evaluation, and Improvement Planning, which give a holistic understanding of the Exercise Cycle. Instruction was led by two representatives from PG OHS/EM and four representatives from MDERS. Each instructor was able to deliver the course materials with unique insight to impart valuable lessons to the attendees. Interspersed in each module are exercises that allowed the attendees to test the skills they have learned in each section. The exercises are a continuous development that helped attendees develop an exercise from inception to fruition. Lastly, the course culminated with a brief, mandatory test to ensure participants grasped the key principles of the course.

MDERS was pleased to continue to partner with PG OHS/EM to collectively teach an offering of HSEEP. The partnership underscores the strong relationships and continuous support that MDERS provides to our stakeholders.

For more information on HSEEP, please click this link.

Reference

U.S. Department of Homeland Security. (2020, January). Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP). Retrieved from Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) (fema.gov)

The annual MDERS Steering Committee election was held during the December 2024 meeting. The elected stakeholders were Prince George’s County Police Department (PGPD) Lt. Nicholas Fiore as chair and Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (OEMHS) Director Luke Hodgson as vice chair. MDERS is excited to collaborate with both Lt. Fiore and Director Hodgson to plan future programmatic efforts for MDERS.

The mission of the Maryland-National Capital Region Emergency Response System (MDERS) is to support the integration of five disciplines (emergency management, fire/rescue/emergency medical services [EMS], law enforcement, public health, and healthcare systems) to ensure a coordinated response to emergency incidents through strategic planning, information sharing, training, exercises, equipment acquisition, and evaluations. Paramount to this goal is the MDERS Steering Committee. This group is comprised of ten representatives from the five disciplines from Montgomery and Prince George’s County. The Steering Committee provides guidance and an overview of the funding priorities for MDERS.

To lead this body, a chair and vice chair assume immense responsibility during monthly meetings, establishing agendas, preserving decorum, regulating debate according to parliamentary procedure, and supervising the general functioning of the Steering Committee. These two positions are essential to the cohesion of MDERS and stakeholder partners.

The next year provides great opportunities for MDERS to support stakeholders through the direction of the Steering Committee under the tutelage of the chair and vice chair.

MDERS and the Steering Committee would like to extend immense gratitude to Montgomery County Fire Rescue Service (MCFRS) Assistant Chief Tracy McDonald for serving as chair and to Lt. Nicholas Fiore for serving as vice chair during 2024. The support provided was invaluable in advancing the mission of MDERS.

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!