Interactive Training
A realistic simulation-based emergency response training system uses advanced Webcast technology to train the first responder and first receiver communities, as well as private sector security and emergency management personnel.
The University of Findlay School of Environmental and Emergency Management (SEEM) pioneered the simulation-based training method, which is called ALERT. The approach is to orchestrate “hands-on” simulations of disaster scenarios and to demonstrate appropriate response and recovery strategies. The exercise is Webcast live, thus providing a way to train employees at their desktops.
“It is unique because the program is interactive,” says J. Randal Van Dyne, executive director for SEEM. “It covers a lot of a issues from various perspectives and a lot of information. It also provides better understanding of all the elements involved.”
Broadband Webcasting technology combines with broadcast production techniques to make the ALERT Webcasts “Live TV on the Web” that can reach thousands of trainees. SEEM began conducting ALERT Webcasts in 2004 and conducted two Webcasts in 2005 — the first covering response to a serious release of chlorine gas from a railroad tank car and the second covering a hospital’s response to a surge of patients exposed to a dangerous biotoxin. For each one, SEEM employs on-air experts to explain the scenario as it unfolds and to present the options and decision-making criteria Incident Commanders and other responders should employ.
An ALERT Webcast uses multiple camera angles to cover the emergency situation as it takes place, so viewers see the incident from several points — somewhat like watching a live sporting event. Video and audio are supplemented by informative slides and pre-recorded video clips to provide insight on various topics.
ALERT Webcasts also feature viewer interactivity. Viewers answer questions or recommend courses of action at several points to test their knowledge and decision-making skills. The viewer votes by choosing among multiple responses presented. Viewers may also ask questions of on-air experts during the Webcast through a text field on the ALERT Webcast screen.
Each Webcast is archived online in order to be available at a later time. University of Findlay SEEM will continue the ALERT simulation-based training series. In April, a Webcast featured a scenario involving a methamphetamine lab. Law enforcement officers investigate a suspected meth lab, make entry and arrest, and coordinate efforts with other response teams to clean and decontaminate the site, manage emergency medical response and enlist social and psychological intervention.
About 1,000 people in 48 states and four foreign countries attended the Webcast.
In the future, the Webcast will add certificate credit with pre- and post-test. To date, this program is funded by the federal government. Additional grant funding, corporate and vendor sponsorships, and other funding approaches are in progress.
Participation is free, but viewers must register in advance by visiting the SEEM Web site, Seem.findlay.edu.
