HSI participates in rapid response team exercise at PMRF

MANA — A total of 18 members of the Homeland Security Investigations Rapid Response Team participated in a Field Familiarization and Disaster Response Training Exercise Feb. 24 to March 1 at the Pacific Missile Range Facility.

RRT members received both classroom and scenario based training in first aid, building entry, ropes, communications, chain saw and power tool operations, structural roofing and tarping, land navigation, wildlife and environmental concerns, vehicle stops and public affairs.

“Each of these blocks of instruction helps to provide a broad cross section of skills that are invaluable in the wake of a disaster,” said Supervisory Special Agent Shawn Meehan, section chief within HSI Headquarters, National Emergency Management Division.

Fourteen RRT are currently trained and ready for deployment around the country. In the past 18 months teams have deployed to assist in the aftermath of storms, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and wildfires. Most recently teams from around the country deployed to New York and New Jersey to help victims of Hurricane Sandy.

RRT members from HSI offices in Boston, El Paso, New Orleans, Phoenix, Tampa, Los Angeles and Headquarters and personnel from PRMF all provided support during the exercise.