Bomb Threat App Puts Crucial Data in Responders’ Hands

When a bomb threat occurs, first responders have precious little time to assess the situation and make critical decisions. A new app for first responders, called the First Responder Support Tools (FiRST), will assist during those crucial moments. Designed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and partners, the computer and smartphone app attempts to provide details pertinent to bomb threats like potential blast radius, location of nearby schools and hospitals, evacuation routes and suggested roads to be blocked off.

Developed in partnership with the DHS National Protection and Programs Directorate's Office of Infrastructure Protection, the DHS Office for Bombing Prevention and Applied Research Associates Inc., it’s reported to be the first in-depth app for bomb technicians and first responders handling bomb threats.

"Bomb threat scenarios do not reflect a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Christine Lee, FiRST program manager in the S&T's First Responders Group. “And this app allows users to customize information to help them make informed decisions for response."

In addition to geospatial data, the app also includes HAZMAT response information based on the Emergency Response Guidebook, which includes data on more than 3,000 hazardous materials. The app can retrieve current and forecasted weather data to show downwind protection zones for materials that are considered inhalation hazards.

Once the user has all the information garnered by the app, he can email a text summary, map image and GIS file to colleagues.

"No longer will they have to carry additional tools such as hard-copy blast standoff guidance cards, rulers or maps," said Applied Research Associates Program Manager Carl Jerrett.

The FiRST app is available for iPhones, iPads, Androids and Windows PCs.