What is Inland Waterways Spill Responder Training?
Wakota CAER is the proud sponsor of the Inland Waterways Spill Responder Training, the first training course offered in Minnesota for response to oil spills on water. "Boom School" teaches local responders how to contain and recover petroleum on moving water. This training is valuable for individuals who lack experience using oil spill response equipment.
2011 Boom School Recap - The 2011 Inland Waterways Oil Spill Responder 1 & 3 Day Training, better known as Boom School, was a success again this year. We worked in Mississioppi River Pool 2 near Flint Hills Resources, CF Industries and Aggregate Industries.
Extreme heat and high water levels as well as other issues prompted the decision to re-schedule the 3 day from July to October. Luckily, we had July-like weather for the October class with good water conditions as well.
CF Industries provided the 2011 Boom School with training facilities, a boat launch, and a fantastic spot for lunches and planning, complete with picnic tables, hygiene facilities, and awesome scenery. Wakota CAER would like to thank all involved at CF Industries for their hospitality.
Planning for the 2012 Boom School has already begun, using knowledge gained in 2011 to provide the best training available.
Wakota CAER hopes to see you again next year for this important and fun training opportunity.
What is covered in the training?
This combination of classroom and hands-on instruction covers techniques for containing and recovering petroleum spills on moving water. Industry and regulatory personnel with experience responding to oil spills on water instruct the course. Wakota CAER members provide the boats and booming equipment. If they choose, attendees may use their own equipment during the training.
800 MHz Radio Operation Training
Attendees will now receive 800 MHz radio communication training as part of the Boom School. This module will teach responders how to communicate using radios on the state radio system. We've also integrated a functional table top exercise into the curriculum. This will be a great way for responders to apply what they've learned in a mock spill scenario.
Boat Safety
The U.S. Coast Guard will be providing a one day “Water Craft Operation and Safety” course prior to all three day “Inland Waterways Spill Responder Training” sessions. This course will be a required prerequisite for all participants in the full three day sessions.
When is the training available?
Check back here in early 2012 for Boom School scheduling.