Critical Infrastructure Archives

Securing Cities: The Fight Against Local Level Cyberthreats

Michael Breslin October 2, 2024

As digital threats against local governments and private entities grow more sophisticated, the need for action becomes urgent. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and at the local level, it forms the bedrock of the collective digital safety and security for all. Every citizen, agency, and organization must play a part

National Laboratory Partnerships: Linking Operations and Research

Ryan Eddy and Ann Lesperance September 25, 2024

The September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001 spurred a pivotal change in the way the U.S. approaches preparedness for threats to the homeland. In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory showcases how national laboratories address homeland security threats by developing the technology and other resources first

Responder Fatigue – A Growing Concern

Dan Scherr and Tanya M. Scherr September 18, 2024

Emergencies require immediate action by people trained to extinguish fires, treat injuries, protect the public, and perform other life and safety tasks. Responders who repeatedly encounter high-stress scenarios may face additional life and safety concerns in the form of fatigue. Learn about three types of fatigue and how to combat

AI and 911 Call Systems: A New Ally or a Hidden Risk?

Michael Breslin September 11, 2024

From natural disasters to sophisticated cyberthreats, the risks to public safety are evolving fast. As unexpected events can strike at any moment, the systems designed to protect people – 911 call centers – face unprecedented challenges. Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the landscape by increasing efficiencies and risks. Learn about

Security in and Around D.C. – Following the Informational Dots

Catherine L. Feinman September 11, 2024

Preparing for any special event includes many unknowns. When an event involves national security, the stakes are even higher. Public safety agencies have been sharing their lessons learned and providing recommendations to prepare the nation for the upcoming election events. Read some of the takeaways they shared at the D.C.

Dual-World Tabletop Exercises – Addressing Unmet Infrastructure Needs

Charles (Chuck) L. Manto August 21, 2024

The U.S. critical infrastructure is vulnerable to many forms of cyber and electromagnetic threats. This article presents a new tabletop exercise concept for addressing these ongoing threats to critical infrastructure. Similar to medical research groups that involve treatment and control groups, two exercise groups would work simultaneously on the same

Lessons in Social Media – Preparing Kids and Community Leaders for Disasters

Patricia Frost and Michael Prasad August 7, 2024

Addressing children’s needs during a crisis can be challenging. Leveraging social media to create crisis communication campaigns can be an effective way to boost community outreach efforts and raise awareness of the unique needs children have in disaster planning and response. Successful social media campaigns by governmental and non-governmental organizations

A Homeland Vulnerability Continues

Robert C. Hutchinson August 7, 2024

The U visa process offers help to immigrants who are victims of certain violent crimes. However, loopholes or weaknesses in the process could provide a safe haven for undeserving applicants. Learn more about the process, its flaws, and how to close the gaps to guard against foreign threats while protecting

The Key Bridge Collapse – Through the Lens of Community Lifelines

Michael Prasad July 17, 2024

The eight major elements of Community Lifelines use traffic-light-type color-coding to categorize the adverse impact status of a disaster. The article’s author has applied this same system to the recovery efforts following the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland. Learn how he applied this information-gathering tool to an ongoing recovery

Key Bridge Collapse: Unity of Effort

Michael Prasad May 22, 2024

As the response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse continues in Baltimore, Maryland, the unity of effort among the many agencies and organizations involved has facilitated the progress. Together, they have been addressing the priorities of life safety, incident stabilization, property and asset protection, environmental and economic restoration, and

The Missing Plague Vials

Robert C. Hutchinson April 17, 2024

A true story of missing bubonic plague vials, an airport bomb threat, and other suspicious activities again demonstrate continued national and homeland security vulnerabilities and threats. Perspectives may differ, but the concerns are real and provide an opportunity to learn and prepare.

Primary Care Investments to Increase Community Resilience

Angie Im April 17, 2024

Community health centers are medical lifelines for millions of Americans. However, financial constraints and healthcare workforce challenges strain these critical resources. New initiatives and additional investments can help communities be more resilient and continue to meet community needs during a crisis.

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