Core Goal #3: HAZ MAT/Explosive Device Response
Every metropolitan region should have a Type 1 Hazmat team and a Type 1 bomb response team, either as one unit or separate units, and there should be sufficient units statewide to provide mutual aid response in any jurisdiction within a minimal amount of time. These teams should all be trained for both fire and law enforcement response.
Why is Hazardous Materials (HazMat) and Explosive Device (Bomb Squads) Response important?
Hazardous materials and explosive device teams provide the specialized field response to threats such as an intentional chemical release, suspicious package, or improvised explosive device. These teams receive training and equipment particular to the unique hazards to which they respond – rendering safe dangerous conditions caused by chemical releases or explosives. Because the possibility of multiple simultaneous or coordinated events exists, maintaining strong lines of mutual aid between teams provides redundancy and increased coverage in response.
Strategic Plan for HAZ MAT/Explosive Device Response:
3A – Every metropolitan region in Maryland should have access to a Type 1 bomb response and hazmat team, and those units should be able to provide mutual aid within a minimal amount of time.
• Define a standard set of equipment and training for Bomb Squad and HazMat Teams in Maryland and apply that standard across the state. These teams should meet Type 1 standards, but Maryland’s standards should incorporate or consider emergent technologies that provide enhanced response and render safe capabilities.
• Establish a formalized system of mutual aid to ensure every jurisdiction has access to a Type 1 bomb response and HazMat team within a determined response window.
• Key data including response times and incident types should be shared between state and local teams, and analyzed for more effective response on a regular basis.
3B – State and Local HazMat and Bomb Teams should be trained for both fire and law enforcement response and to handle unique WMD/CBRNE incidents.
• Identify cross training needs for HazMat teams so that teams can support and effectively coordinate with all law enforcement response (e.g., crime scene, evidence collection, safety).
• Develop a cross training plan for Bomb response teams in WMD/CBRNE response.