CDP holds first ICAT Train-the-Trainer

FEMA’s Center for Domestic Preparedness this week is delivering the inaugural offering of its Integrating Communications Assessment and Tactics (ICAT) Train-the-Trainer Course.

ICAT teaches law enforcement officers how to de-escalate a crisis through lectures and practical exercises. Scenarios used in ICAT are taken from real-world events and typically include officer encounters with persons with mental health issues or involved in domestic violence.

Originally developed by the Police Executive Research Forum, with input from police professionals across the United States, ICAT is designed specifically for situations involving persons who are unarmed or armed with weapons other than firearms.

Seven of the 12 students in this week’s course are from the Salt Lake City Police Department.

According to Lt. Alma Sweeney, the SLCPD considers ICAT to be one of the most well-researched de-escalation courses available. He added that participating in the ICAT train-the-trainer offering will enable him and his fellow law enforcement officers to formally share the ICAT curriculum with others in their jurisdictions.

“Line-level officers need to be trained, so de-escalation can be implemented on the ground,” he said.

The next scheduled offerings of the ICAT Train-the Trainer Course are in January and April.

For additional information or to apply for the course, visit https://cdp.dhs.gov/training/course/PER-922-1.