Homeland Security Institute

The emergency response community is Washington's best defense for protecting public safety and minimizing the devastation caused by terrorist attacks and natural disasters. The ability of emergency responders to recognize events and respond appropriately, safely, and collaboratively depends on effective training. Training fosters a shared understanding of the problem; common terminology; and knowledge and respect for what other disciplines bring to the effort.

The Homeland Security Institute's Gap Analysis will consider emergency responders throughout Washington. It will determine and evaluate the “gap” between their current level of training and their recommended or desired level of training. It will also assess the “gap” between the responders’ current state of readiness compared to their recommended or desired state of readiness.

HSI's Gap analysis will identify:

Training deficiencies that exist within and between Washington's emergency response disciplines.
Training needs that have been revealed during past response efforts and exercises.
Barriers and challenges to successful training.
Current and recommended levels of training.
Best practices for providing training.
Recommendations for sustaining responders' knowledge and skills.

HSI, Gap analysis