NCCOS scientistsparticipated in the first NOAA '300 level' course titled: 'Intermediate Incident Command System Training' last monthin Silver Spring, MDin preparation for agency-wideresponse to natural or man-made emergency incidents or to deploy to an emergency or disaster center.

NOS personnel take ICS 300 level training in Silver Spring, MD. Credit. J. Wickham, NOAA

The Incident Command System (ICS) was developed to respond to emergencies using standard job roles, forms, and terminology. This organized emergency response method is used nationally and internationally by governments, industries, and private sectors to create a commonly understood structure to ensure fast and efficient emergency response.

The federal ICS 300 course provides training formulti-jurisdictional or multi-agency emergency disaster incidents. The course information specifically relates to NOAA authority and natural resource responsibilities, the NOAA Concept of Operations Plan, and incident coordination by the NOAA Homeland Security Program. The training includes a hands-on response using ICS methodology for a fictitious train derailment and oil spill at a NOAA National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR).

A mock ICS team responds to a fictitious train derailment and oil spill at aNOAA NERR. Credit J. Wickham, NOAA

This ICS class, the first designed specifically for NOAA personnel and participants, involved National Ocean Service staff, but future classes will target other NOAA Line Offices. The course wastaught by personnel from the NOAA Gulf of Mexico Disaster Response Center.