Sen. Kissel Praises New England Disaster Training Center

July 9, 2010

Participates in the Center’s ribbon cutting ceremony at Camp Hartell in Windsor Locks

State Senator John A. Kissel (R-Enfield) today participated in the New England Disaster Training Center (NEDTC) ribbon cutting at Camp Hartell in Windsor Locks. The $8 million training center, paid for through federal funds, will provide participants with an opportunity to learn, practice, and integrate clinical, logistical, and leadership skills when responding to biological, natural, and man-made disasters.

“This is a great opportunity for north-central Connecticut to act as a launching pad to provide aid to individuals in need all over the state, country and world,” said Sen. Kissel. “The work that will be done at the training center has huge implications for people in disaster situations and the ability of folks from Connecticut to be adequately trained and employed to make a difference.”

Among the many different training programs, instruction will be given in extricating people buried in rubble and providing them appropriate medical care. Training such as this could be invaluable in a building collapse or earthquake scenario such as recently occurred in Haiti. After completing a disaster training course, graduates are expected to respond effectively in the face of disasters and help guide other community leaders. NEDTC trainers are experts in emergency response and have experience managing both man-made and natural disasters.

“The time dedicated to disaster training by both civilian and military personnel will also be of tremendous benefit to our local communities. The presence of this center will help make our towns safer and empower civilian leaders to respond to the emergency needs of their constituents,” said Sen. Kissel. “Further, as this facility is used to cross-train different groups from around the country, it will also bring in people from throughout New England and beyond to our hotels, restaurants and attractions and boost our local economy with a dramatic and positive ripple-effect. I applaud our congressional delegation for working to secure this funding, Governor Rell for her commitment to disaster relief, and our local leaders for doing their part to make this project possible.”

Governor Rell also recently announced $130 million to enhance the National Guard infrastructure in Windsor Locks and East Granby.

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