Firefighters in chemical suits enter a small, dark room searching for anything suspicious. Looking for what they expect to be a meth lab, the men find a black light, corn, syringes, and multiple unlabeled glass containers. The firefighters must decide their next plan of action to ensure the safety of the community. Luckily, this is only a scenario.

Kansas City, MO - infoZine - Recently, emergency responders from Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte and Ray County completed site characterization training held at the Kansas City Fire Department station 27. Local fire service and hazardous materials (Hazmat) teams were refreshed on the basics by the Missouri National Guard's 7th Civil Support Team (Weapons of Mass Destruction).

"The 7th civil support team welcomes the opportunity to promote interagency cooperation and form relationships with first responders throughout Missouri," said 2nd Lt. Richard Sambolin. "The Mid America Regional Council (MARC) invited us to facilitate and participate in a joint training event in the Greater Kansas City Area and the first responders were ready."

The team taught the site characterization course for three days, teaching different groups each day. The four hour training provided an overview of tactics, techniques, and procedures for entering weapons of mass destruction "hot zones." The goal is for first responders to be able to communicate accurate, detailed and comprehensive information about a site.

After a refresher on site characterization, the men were put to the test. Firefighters were given two separate scenarios to complete. The first scenario began with a call about a disgruntled employee trying to poison a coworker with radiation. The Hazmat teams had to suit up, enter the site, relay information over radios, and evaluate the site. The second scenario involved a simulated meth lab. The teams went through the same process of gathering information safely. After each scenario the teams discussed their progress and were evaluated by a Guardsman.

"Up for the challenge, the first responders that attended the training showcased their expertise and knowledge giving credence to their Departments," said Sambolin.

The Guardsmen also had the opportunity to complete their own training at the Kansas City firehouse. After three days of instructing, the team put their skills to the test. Guardsmen completed an operation and command post lane.

"A scenario is given by an exercise controller and all incidents and accidents are simulated," Sambolin said. "The purpose is to maximize command post activities and not focus on tactics."

Throughout the week, the Guardsmen emphasized education, experience, and familiarization. Sgt. 1st Class Juan Gallego noted that the Guard is a resource for the local teams to use and they shouldn't hesitate to call if they need support.

"We're here 24 hours a day, seven days a week," Gallego said. "We're easy to get a hold of and are here for you. We stand ready."