TRAINING

In order to be considered deployable by both NDMS and MI-1 DMAT, each team member must able to show basic competency in the following areas:   Personal and team safety   Aircraft safety   BOO setup and maintenance (BOO = Base of Operations)   Communications   Incident Command (ICS)   Hazmat Awareness   Scope of practice (clinicians only) The MI-1 Training Section is comprised of a Training Officer and other instructors as needed. All are devoted to ensuring that team members receive the training necessary to achieve the skill levels required for deployment. Training methods include:   Classroom ((Didactic) Training   On-line web-based curriculum   Field exercises (FTXs)   NDMS or FEMA sponsored events   Conferences and seminars   Classroom Training Training sessions are always conducted in an informal, adult-oriented, learning environment. Training is always moderated by the Training Officer (TO) or team members and outside instructors with specialized expertise also contribute. These sessions will use a combination of lectures, A/V presentations (Power Point,  DVD, VHS, etc.) Classroom training is conducted several times a year and done in  conjunction with the web-based resources. It usually precedes a field training exercise (FTX) that serves to incorporate and reinforce lessons learned.   Web-based training One of the most useful tools currently available to the team member to achieve the needed skill is the NDMS / UMBC online training program. This program is available  only to team members who are NDMS approved and have the security password.  This web-based training is a module-based system that utilizes QuickTime to provide lectures, notes, and references in a slide show format. The program is responsive, friendly, and comprehensive. Once the lecture has been completed, the student takes a test covering the material. The test is scored and the answers provided. The test can be retaken until an acceptable score is achieved.  Following successful completion, the student is prompted to complete a course evaluation. Once this evaluation is completed, he or she will be given the option of printing out the appropriate  CE / CEU certificate. In this way the team member is able to acquire the necessary didactic skills as well as obtain CEUs at no cost.   Field Training (FTX) Field Training Exercises (FTXs) are a combination of the skills learned through successful completion of classroom and web-based learning programs. They are usually conducted on weekends and may involve a number of training objectives. It is most likely that the unit would set up its base of operations (BOO) and tackle a variety of training missions. It is essential that each team member have a basic understanding of the theory and practical applications necessary to a successful FTX. Every exercise must be conducted in the safest possible manner. Training policy dictates that the FTX Safety Officer will have the authority to immediately stop any portion or all of the FTX  if he or she determines an immediate threat to life or safety.   NDMS Sponsored Events/Conferences and Seminars The Training Officer maintains a list of these opportunities and team members are encouraged to participate as time permits.