FAIRFAX, Va. — “We are terribly saddened by the shooting at Virginia Tech this morning. Our hearts go out to the victims, families, college students and members of the Virginia Tech and Blacksburg, Va., communities,” said Chief Jim Harmes, IAFC president.
This tragedy could have happened in any of our communities. We should all take time this week to refresh our policies and response plans to school shootings and multiple-casualty incidents. Make sure your operational plans are integrated with law enforcement operations. Review all your response plans to ensure protocols are in place and your personnel are trained and equipped for violence-related incidents. And last, stress situational awareness at all times for the continued safety of fire and EMS personnel.
If there is something the IAFC can do to assist in your efforts, please don’t hesitate to contact your association, www.iafc.org, 703-237-0911.