Description

Weapons of Mass Destruction/Terrorism: An Overview is an instructor-led course designed to create an awareness of the complex response issues and concerns associated with a Weapons of Mass Destruction/Terrorism (WMD/T) incident. It consists of a series of presentations designed to share information and generate thought-provoking and interactive discussions that will orient participants to the real-world considerations of WMD/T planning and response.

Purpose

The purpose of this course is to provide basic information about the issues and safety concerns related to responding to a disaster incident in an environment involving Weapons of Mass Destruction/ Terrorism (WMD/T). Participants will learn about the knowledge, skills and abilities needed by disaster workers performing duties in this environment.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to—

• Identify at least five unique challenges in responding to a WMD/T incident.
•  Identify some of the potential targets of terrorists, identify the types of weapons that could be used and identify health concerns associated with those weapons.
• Describe the Red Cross’ need for accurate information flow and rapid assessment of the incident; identify the “First Responder” agencies; and become aware of the Incident Command System.
• Identify the “First Responder” agencies.
•  Describe the Incident Command System.
• Identify key learning points from the Red Cross’ history in responding to WMD/T incidents.
•  Identify some of the planning and preparedness activities necessary to increase the chapter’s readiness to respond to a WMD/T incident.

Audience

Red Cross employees and volunteers, community agency staff, community leaders and others who wish to learn more about a Red Cross disaster relief operation in a Weapons of Mass Destruction/ Terrorism environment.

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for this course.

Length

This half-day course is 3.5 hours long. Attendance the entire time is required.