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March emergency responders team up to train for threats

  • Published
  • 452 AMW
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. --  Air Force reservists and Air National Guardsmen took part in a joint exercise here Oct. 5, testing their ability to respond and work together in an emergency.

The 452nd Civil Engineering Squadron's emergency management flight conducted the test of Airmen who respond to a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or explosive incident.

More than 35 Airmen from the Guard's 163rd CES EMF and Air Force Reserve Command's 752nd Medical Squadron bioenvironmental section, 452nd CES fire department and 452nd CES EMF responded to a simulated hazardous material emergency.

"We are using this exercise to strengthen our communication skills between various groups of military expertise," said Staff Sgt. Roger Pascual, a 452nd CES emergency manager. "The CBRNE threat is greater every day, and we need to be prepared to work with our fellow branches."

In a chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive scenario, the various groups respond to an incident site to assess, contain and neutralize any possible threats. Bioenvironmental and emergency managers test the site for contamination, and fire fighters help decontaminate and safeguard the hazardous materials.

Senior Airman Joel Aspeytia of the 452nd CES said he would like to see more of these exercises. He said in a real-world event, responders are expected to coordinate with other branches to accomplish the mission.

"I really hope we do more of this training and encompass more of the base in the future," he said. (Air Force Reserve Command News Service)