Security Track: Patrol, Access Control, Evidence and Emergency Response · Module 4 of 4 · about 15 min
Running an emergency
Emergencies run on the Incident Command System (ICS), part of FEMA's National Incident Management System (NIMS). ICS gives everyone one structure: a single incident commander, clear roles, common terms and a manageable span of control. FEMA's free IS-100 course is the standard introduction.
Dispatch ties it together. Dispatchers take calls, get location and nature first, send resources and keep track of every unit. Clear, short radio traffic saves time. Say who you are calling, who you are, then the message.
For an active attacker, CISA teaches Run, Hide, Fight: get out if you can, hide and lock down if you cannot, and fight only as a last resort. Security officers also guide people out, meet responders and give them accurate information.
Cybersecurity is now part of site security. Many physical systems, from badge readers to cameras, are on networks, and CISA treats critical infrastructure security as both physical and cyber. Report odd system behavior the same way you report an open gate.
Sources
- FEMA: National Incident Management System
- FEMA IS-100.c: Introduction to ICS
- CISA: Active shooter preparedness
- BLS: Police, fire and ambulance dispatchers
Module quiz
5 questions, 4 correct to pass. You'll see what you missed and why, and you can retake it.