How does the ERT support first responders in an environmental emergency?
Though the ERT does not replace the critical role of first responders and the Incident Commander, the ERT augments local and regional resources with specialized capabilities. On-scene, the ERT provides tactical support to the Incident Commander and integrates into the Incident Command System (ICS) as a special team under the Operations Section. The ERT provides rapid analysis of chemical hazards. The team has sampling and air monitoring equipment and is trained specifically for Level A entries that involve criminal investigative activities. The team can also provide advice on event mitigation, medical treatment, follow-up resources and other response concerns to the Incident Commander. The team also has access to state laboratories for chemical analysis of unknown agents.
