Level One: Public Works First Responder Training Program

Level One is intended for those Public Works professionals who serve in an elemental, field-based capacity or are new to the profession.

Session 1: PWFR 1-1: Introduction to Public Works as a First Responder: An Overview of Emergency Management and the Incident Command System in Public Works Emergencies*

This four (4) hour classroom-based course reviews the role of the Public Works employee as a first responder, along with the importance of the Incident Command System to manage crisis events at the local, state and national levels. This foundation course will provide the student with a basic understanding of the materials required to successfully complete the following Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) independent study programs (to be completed on their own following the course): 

IS-100 b: Introduction to the Incident Command System

IS-200 B: Basic Incident Command System for Initial Response

ICS-700 a: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System

Non-Member: $75

NIPSTA Member: No cost   

      *This course is required for those seeking a NIPSTA Level One Certificate of Completion even if they have previously completed the training listed above as it provides direct context of this information to the public works profession.  

August 3, 2022 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Register Here

Session 2: PWFR 1-2:“First on the Scene”® Emergency Medical Training, Developed by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT), in cooperation with the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) 

This four (4) hour course provides students with basic medical training to respond to the first few minutes of a medical or traumatic emergency, particularly while waiting for an ambulance or other first responders to arrive. The course includes the following topics: Activating the 9-1-1 system, “hands-only CPR” and the proper use of the AED, administering naloxone for an opioid overdose, anaphylaxis and the use of an auto-injector, bleeding control, chest wound trauma, properly moving patients to safety, and how to position sick or injured patients. No previous medical training is required in order to enroll in this program. 

Non-Member: $75

NIPSTA Member: No cost     

August 10, 2022 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Register Here

Session 3: PWFR 1-3A and PWFR 1-3B are held together in a single four (4) hour program

PWFR 1-3A: National Weather Service Storm Spotter Program

Real-time weather reports are critical in issuing warnings and saving lives. Weather Spotters are trained to assess local conditions, such as hail size, wind speed, tornado development and local damage related to severe weather events. This two (2) hour class covers the basis of severe weather, including storm structure, feature identification, spotter positioning, safety, and severe weather communication. The program is presented by a representative of the National Weather Service and is offered at no additional cost to participants. 

PWFR 1-3B: Scenario Review: A Practical Review of the Role of Public Works as a First Responder during Community-Wide Disasters

This two (2) hour course reviews the role of Public Works professionals as first responders during crisis events. The program will include an overview of actual scenarios in an effort to contextualize the valuable role of Public Works in emergency response. 

Non-Member: $75

NIPSTA Member: No cost   

August 17, 2022 8:00 AM-12:00 PM Register Here