Snapshot: Toxic environment training

First responders in the Center for Domestic Preparedness’ Hazardous Materials Operations (HMO) course prepare to test for hazardous materials in the Chemical, Ordnance, Biological and Radiological (COBRA) Training Facility. These students are practicing skills learned during the CDP’s 2026 Tribal Nations Training Week, the first year hazardous materials training was offered during Tribal Nations Training Week.

The five-day HMO course provides responders with the information and skills required of operations-level HAZMAT technicians. During training, students conduct advanced practical exercises in the nation's only civilian toxic agent training site, the COBRA Training Facility. The course is aligned with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 470, Standard for Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Emergency Response Personnel Professional Qualifications.

The CDP is authorized to award 4 CEUs for this course by the International Association of Continuing Education and Training. For additional information about the HMO Course or to register for future iterations, visit: https://cdp.dhs.gov/training/course/PER-322.