UPPER NAZARETH TWP, Pa. — In the wake of February's toxic train derailment disaster in East Palestine, Ohio, and with Norfolk Southern tracks also running through the Lehigh Valley, Northampton County will hold free classes to prepare emergency responders for an incident here.
- In wake of the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment disaster, Northampton County will hold free classes for emergency responders
- The classes also will address pipeline incidents
- The classes start April 15 and run through Aug. 6
The classes, which also will address pipeline incidents, will be at the Northampton County Emergency Operations Center at 100 Gracedale Ave., Upper Nazareth Township, and will run through spring and summer.
“Participation in these courses will help first responders understand how to respond to a potential train derailment in our community. Together, we must ensure that Northampton County is equipped and ready to respond.”Northampton County Executive Lamont G. McClure
“It is more important than ever that all emergency managements become educated about the dangers and hazards presented with rail cars carrying these dangerous supplies,” county Executive Lamont G. McClure said in a release.
“Participation in these courses will help first responders understand how to respond to a potential train derailment in our community. Together, we must ensure that Northampton County is equipped and ready to respond.”
Classes come after incident
The classes comes after Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro criticized Norfolk Southern for engaging in its own emergency management decisions without consulting state and local leaders during the East Palestine derailment.
In that incident, about 50 cars of a freight train operated by Norfolk Southern derailed in a fiery crash on the outskirts of East Palestine.
The derailed cars were carrying hazardous materials considered toxic and possibly carcinogenic. Thousands of residents within two miles of the crash site were evacuated.
The Northampton County classes will be:
- ICS-400: Advanced Incident Command System (ICS) for Command and General Staff, Complex Incidents and Multiagency Coordination Groups — April 15.
- Rail Car Incidents Response for Crude, Ethanol & Other Flammable Liquids — June 3.
- Norfolk Southern Operation Awareness & Response Training — June 12.
- Norfolk Southern Operation Awareness & Response Training — June 17.
- Responding to Utility Emergencies: Natural Gas — June 22.
- Large Diameter Hose — July 8-9
- Foam Fire Fighting Basic — July 10-17
- Foam Fire Fighting Technician — July 24-31
- Rural Fire Ground Water Movement — July 22-23
- Tanker Water Supply — July 29-30
- Flammable Liquid Fire Fighting — Aug. 5-6
Any class that uses foam will use only environmentally friendly training foam, according to a release from the county.
Responders and emergency management personnel can sign up here.
