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FEMA Launches Rapid Response Information System

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched a Rapid Response Information System (RRIS). The Rapid Response Information System can be used as a reference guide, training aid, and an overall planning and training resource for response to a chemical, biological and/or nuclear terrorist incident. The RRIS is comprised of several databases, consisting of chemical and biological agents' and radiological materials' characteristics, first aid measures, Federal response capabilities, Help Line, Hotlines, and other Federal information sources concerning potential weapons of mass destruction.

FEMA was required by the 1997 National Defense Authorization Act (Public Law 104-201) to establish the system.

To Report an EMERGENCY Situation contact:
Chem/Bio Hotline - (800) 424-8802 (24 hours)
Radiological Hotline: (202) 586-8100 (24 hours)

To Receive NON-EMERGENCY Assistance (Questions, Reference Information) contact:
Chem/Bio HelpLine - 1-800-368-6498
cbhelp@sbccom.apgea.army.mil

Callers must be verified emergency responders and undergo a one-time verification procedure before the HelpLine can release information. Emergency responders include:

  • Firefighters
  • Law Enforcement Officials
  • Emergency Medical Personnel
  • Hazardous Materials Experts
  • Emergency Management Officials (who have responsibilities for planning, training, and conducting domestic preparedness exercises)
  • Bomb Disposal Experts
  • Emergency Operators
  • Other Local and State Personnel (who may be involved in a chemical and biological incident response)

More detailed information on the RRIS may be found at the FEMA web site:
http://www.rris.fema.gov

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