Terrorism Consequence Management

A 21st Century Response to a 21st Century Threat


In the event of a terrorist attack, our nation’s domestic security depends on well-equipped, well-trained first responders. Providing the tools to build these life-saving skills is what Terrorism Consequence Management is all about.

Terrorism Consequence Management (TCM) is a unique training system that instructs first responders on how to recognize and detect the various chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive agents and devices they may encounter.

Course curriculum also discusses strategies and tactics to consider when tackling terrorism-based situations.

Every California firefighter has access to this vital terrorism response training both in the classroom and on the Web ... all at no cost to their fire agency.


ATTENTION FIRE AGENCIES: BACKFILL FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR TCM TRAINING -- CLICK HERE FOR SCHEDULE AND REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Background


In 2002, the California Fire Fighters Joint Apprenticeship Committee (CFFJAC) created the nation’s first terrorism response training program geared specifically for firefighters. Terrorism Consequence Management (TCM) offered every California firefighter a free course on WMD and terrorist response, built around a “train the trainer” model.

The results were spectacular – nearly 700 trainers brought the TCM course to more than 20,000 California firefighters.

In 2007, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed AB 587. allocating $2.5 million in dedicated anti-terrorism funds to update and modernize this essential training. Because of this commitment, more than 30,000 front line firefighters will have access to state-of-the-art terrorism response training at no cost to their fire agency.

The New TCM Curriculum


As with the original system, the CFFJAC has brought together a team of recognized experts in every area of terrorism response – chemical, biological, nuclear – to update and expand the original TCM program. The new system incorporates the same proven training elements:

  • Student manuals and instructor guides
  • Video-based exercises
  • Live demonstrations and “hands-on” learning

Production has begun on a Web-based continuing education component of the TCM program, as provided by AB 587. The Web-based program will feature realistic video-based scenarios and will conform with statewide first responder training standards.

How It Works -- "Train The Trainer"


Whether they’re training or on the front lines, firefighters never go it alone. That’s why firefighters train the way they respond – as a group. For this reason, the CFFJAC’s TCM program follows a model familiar to firefighters: “train the trainer.

  1. Master trainers conduct “Train the Trainer” classes around the state.
  2. Departments send personnel to these classes to receive the training at no charge to the department;
  3. Certified trainers – equipped with tools, instructional material and expertise – bring the 16-hour course to firefighters in local and surrounding jurisdictions.

At every step of the way, CFFJAC provides support and as much training material as they need. All materials are free to the department and the firefighters.

On the Cutting Edge


To insure that California’s firefighters stay on top of their training, CFFJAC experts are also developing a series of Web-based training modules, available online to firefighters. These modules not only make the training more accessible, but also allow for continuing education and updated training.

With TCM, California firefighters will always have the state-of-the-art at their fingertips.