TAYLOR — The technological and operational nuances of the T-5 Caliber robot will be showcased at the second meeting of the Wayne County Local Emergency Planning Committee meeting slated for 2 p.m. June 4 at the Wayne County Community College District campus in Taylor.
The meeting will be held in the MIPSE Building and is open to the public.
With its sensing technology, the T-5 Caliber robot can help first responders detect explosives, industrial gases, radiation and weapons of mass destruction. In addition to being hailed for its compact size, first responders can use the T-5 Caliber robot in a variety of situations.
For example, law enforcement personnel can use the device when confronting a barricaded gunman. Firefighters, meanwhile, can use the robot in a variety of ways including when they respond to a hazmat situation.
“The T-5 Caliber robot adds to the arsenal of equipment available to first responders to help ensure their safety and the safety of the public throughout Wayne County,” Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano said. “One of the goals of the Wayne County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, led by Director Timothy McGillivary, is to provide technical support for our first responders by sharing resources such as the T-5 Caliber robot across the county.”
The T-5 Caliber robot cost $189,000 and was purchased through a federal homeland security grant.
The WC LEPC is a public-private partnership concerned with hazardous materials safety and reporting. The WC LEPC offers access to information on the storage of hazardous materials for the benefit of Wayne County residents, businesses and industries.
In coordination with the Wayne County Homeland Security and Emergency Management unit, the WC LEPC also:
• Facilitates meetings between the public and private partners to share information and enhance one to one contact.
• Conducts training classes for first responders in accessing hazardous materials information online and coordinates with adjacent LEPC’s as part of ongoing regional preparedness.
The WC LEPC committee carries out its directives in compliance with SARA Title III. The act establishes requirements for federal, state and local governments regarding emergency planning and community right to know reporting on hazardous and toxic chemicals.
The WC LEPC meets four times a year. The remaining two meetings will be held on Sept. 3 and Dec. 3.
For more information on preparedness tips from the Wayne County Department of Homeland Security, go to the Wayne County website, www.waynecounty.com and click on the Homeland Security and Emergency management page under the Departments tab.