U.S. Fire Administrator Attends WMD Incident Command Course

Feb. 9, 2010
U.S. Fire Administrator Kelvin J. Cochran attended the Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Incident Command: Capabilities, Planning and Response Actions (IC) course at the Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) on Feb. 1-3. The course focuses community planning towards the preparedness effort in response to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosive (CBRNE) event. Cochran attended the course to refresh his training and skills and to share his 30 years of knowledge as an emergency responder.

“This is an opportunity for me to stay current and relevant,” said Cochran. “This training course also provides the opportunity for me to stay in touch with first responders from various disciplines, and stay connected to the issues of incident management.”

The 24-hour course culminates with a 6-hour exercise that requires the most seasoned responder to share information. Cochran has challenged all fire service leaders across the nation to remain engaged in training and professional development.

“I want to set an example for our leadership, and to remain credible. I want to encourage leaders that no matter how far up you are in the organizational chart at the local, state, or federal level you need to make it part of your professional development agenda to attend a course at the CDP.”

The CDP is located in Anniston, Alabama and funds courses for tribal, state and local response personnel, including travel, meals, and lodging. Learn more about other training opportunities, visit http://cdp.dhs.gov or call 866-213-9553.

About the Author

Sandy Smith

Sandy Smith is the former content director of EHS Today, and is currently the EHSQ content & community lead at Intelex Technologies Inc. She has written about occupational safety and health and environmental issues since 1990.

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