NETC Learning Resource Center
(Source: FEMA)
The Learning Resource Center (LRC) at the National Emergency Training Center (NETC) in Emmitsburg, MD, has one of the most comprehensive collections in the United States of materials relating to the fire service, emergency medical services, and emergency management communities. It provides current information and resources on fire, EMS, emergency management, and all-hazards subjects.
The Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) learned that the LRC has more than 180,000 books, reports, periodicals, and audiovisual materials to facilitate research by NETC faculty, students, and the general public. Though the general public cannot borrow materials directly from the LRC, visitors can acquire assistance in their search for useful information resources. However, anyone can access the LRC's collection of books and research reports by requesting Interlibrary Loan through their local library.
LRC personnel routinely answer simple requests such as an organization's address and phone number. In response to more complex inquiries on specific subjects, the LRC will do literature searches, compile bibliographies, and, depending on length and copyright restrictions, provide documentation in the form of reports and articles. Users of the LRC Online 24/7 Catalog can perform their own literature searches. The online catalog is a “unique guide to periodical literature” with citations on fire, emergency response, natural disaster, and other homeland security topics.
Several examples of what users can find on the LRC website follow:
Fire Operations for Photovoltaic Emergencies
(Source: Office of the California State Fire Marshal)
Recognizing that firefighters must also be aware of hazards associated with photovoltaic (PV) systems (i.e., solar energy) t he Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) reviewed the course guide regarding Fire Operations for Photovoltaic Emergencies (PDF, 2 Mb). “Photovoltaics” refers to the process of converting energy in the form of light from the sun to usable electrical current, according to the course introduction. “A PV system refers to a system of components that, together, will generate electricity for use on site and may allow excess electricity to flow to the utility grid.”
The course outline further explains that with a variety of alternative electrical generation systems available, none is becoming more prevalent than those converting solar energy to electricity. These systems are known as photovoltaic systems. “A PV system consists of photovoltaic solar panels and other electrical components used to capture solar energy and convert it to electrical power.”
PV systems are considered an economical and environmentally clean way to generate electricity. Most of these systems are roof mounted and may present hazards to firefighting operations. The potential dangers discussed in this training curriculum include electrical shock, trip/slip/fall, increased roof loads, hazardous materials, and battery storage hazards.
More information about PV systems can be seen at this fact sheet (PDF, 282 Kb) and also here.
Post Blast/Active Shooter Reference Card
(Source: National Association of State EMS Officials)
The National Association of State EMS Officials (NASEMSO) notified the Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) that it has posted a new reference card (PDF, 244 Kb) for “Post Blast/Active Shooter” scenarios on its website.
The reference card discusses the formation of a Unified Command and explosive evacuation guidelines. It also includes a 3E Job Aid explaining the three steps (i.e., enter, evaluate, evacuate) for post blast and active shooter incidents.
According to its website, the NASEMSO is the lead national organization for EMS, a respected voice for national EMS policy with comprehensive concern and commitment for the development of effective, integrated, community-based, universal, and consistent EMS systems. Its mission is to support members in developing EMS policy and oversight, as well as in providing vision, leadership, and resources in the development and improvement state, regional, and local EMS and emergency care systems.
Additional NASEMSO reference documents can be seen at the association's website.
Preventing Firefighter Vehicle Accident Deaths
(Source: National Volunteer Fire Council)
At its website, the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) stated that vehicle crashes are consistently the second leading cause of firefighter deaths each year. “Hundreds more are injured while responding to or returning from an incident.” Recognizing that more needs to be done, NVFC created a new campaign designed to educate first responders about vehicle safety and increase safe vehicle operations.
Th e Emergency Management and Response—Information Sharing and Analysis Center (EMR-ISAC) examined the new online “STOP” campaign (access code 6832), which reinforces that Safety Tops Our Priorities (STOP). The free 30-minute training module focuses on vehicle safety with an emphasis on seatbelt use.
STOP is a training module delivered through an online platform and presented by Chief David Denniston, former Chief of the Cortland (NY) Fire Department. Emergency departments and agencies can incorporate the STOP program as part of their training activities to educate their members about vehicle safety and reduce the risk of firefighter injury and death from vehicle accidents. |
