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[cdn-nucl-l] Military training Toronto team for nuclear disaster
Posted in the National Post on August 27, 2002 and at:
http://www.canada.com/toronto/news/story.asp?id={8517F569-0394-4859-B711
-25477B105291}
Adam
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Military training team for nuclear disaster
Dan Rowe
National Post
Tuesday, August 27, 2002
ADVERTISEMENT
A team of emergency-response workers from Toronto is receiving training
this week at an Alberta military base to respond to chemical,
biological, radiological and nuclear accidents.
The 25 employees of the Toronto Police Service, Toronto Emergency
Medical Services, Toronto Fire Services and Toronto Public Health are
the first group of civilians to receive this level of emergency training
from the military.
"It is precautionary. It's part of our preparedness posture," said
Warren Leonard, the manager of emergency planning, works and emergency
services for the City of Toronto. "Nothing like this has happened in the
city before, but we're aware of what goes on worldwide and we feel this
is an enhancement of some of the capabilities we have.... It would be
for any accidental or intentional release of these agents."
Toronto has wanted to create a team trained in handling hazardous
materials since 2000, he said, though the Sept. 11 attacks introduced a
greater urgency.
"I don't think there's any doubt it raised awareness at all levels of
government and it certainly assisted in making this kind of military
training available to a non-military group like the City of Toronto
emergency services."
Beginning yesterday, the group's members are being put through the paces
at the Canadian Forces Base in Suffield. "The training that they get out
there is pretty high level," said Mr. Leonard.
The co-operation among different city organizations has been another
selling point. "Whether it related to terrorism or a natural disaster or
an accidental event, the joint approach has a great deal of support at
high levels," he said.
C Copyright 2002 National Post