Bomb threat? There’s an app for that

retrieves current and forecast weather to show downwind protection zones for over 600 materials that are inhalation hazards.

 FiRST is available to first responders for a nominal fee (about $12 for mobile devices and $100 for Window PC version).  The app will be of interest and applicable to anyone who might need to address a potential bomb or HAZMAT spill response, such as industry, HAZMAT transport, or security personnel.  HAZMAT information is available to all users.   Specifically defined DHS bomb standoff data is considered sensitive and is automatically made available to those that register the application with a .gov, .mil, or .us e-mail address. Users without a .gov, .mil, or .us e-mail address can be approved for access on a case-by-case basis in coordination with the Office of Bomb Protection (however, any user can input into the app and define his own custom bomb and standoff distances, which might be applicable to certain jurisdictions and/or localities).

The FiRST app uses services readily available with current smartphones: email, phone, Google Maps, Google Search, and weather and road network data. “We use existing hardware that responders are already familiar with because responders can’t waste time navigating a complex interface during the chaos of an incident,” said Carl Jerrett, ARA program manager. “No longer will they have to carry additional tools such as hard-copy blast standoff guidance cards, rulers, or maps.” Sergeant Thomas Sharkey, the District of Columbia Metro Transit Police Bomb Squad Commander, said “Unlike other confusing software on desktop computers, this application is easy to purchase, easy to install, and even easier to use.”

Once a first responder enters a general definition and location of the bomb or HAZMAT incident into the FiRST app, the results are instantaneous. They can run a roadblock analysis to identify which roads are best suited for closure in order to isolate a bomb threat within that specific region.

Google Search features are available to identify and display locations where increased numbers of the public may be at potential risk. “FiRST allows responders to label a map with critical information, and this information not only helps first responders better understand an incident, but these maps can then be shared with other responders,” said Jerrett. Users can quickly send results to colleagues via e-mail, which includes a text summary, a map image, and GIS file attachments that are viewable in applications like Google Earth or WebEOC.

The FiRST app is available for iPhones and iPads, Androids, and Windows personal computers. The application is available for purchase at a nominal fee on iTunes, the Google Play, and ARA’s e-commerce Web site.

S&T says that FiRST field evaluations were conducted last year by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, bomb squad, police, EMT, firefighter, and hazmat units. U.S. Secret Service personnel observed the evaluations as well. After the application testing and evaluation phases were completed, Sharkey said, “This app is a must-have for bomb technicians and first responders.”

For more information on this technology, visit the DHS First Responder Web site.