Free Animal Disease Response Training Offered in August

June 22, 2010

Responders who play a critical role in containing and recovering from an animal disease outbreak have an opportunity to take a free training course in August.

The Tulare County Agricultural Commissioner is pleased to announce an Animal Disease Response Training - Department of Homeland Security course AWR 206-1 on August 31, 2010. The course lasts from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at the Tulare Ag Commissioner’s Office, 4437 S. Laspina St., Tulare, CA 93274.

The training will be taught by veterinarians and is sponsored by the Kirkwood Community College AgPreparedness Center, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This class is only one of four being offered by Kirkwood Community College in California through October 2010, according to www.agpreparedness.org.

Any federal, state or local agency in the San Joaquin Valley should consider participation in this course. Registration is limited to 150 people. The free course targets:

• Agriculture producers and workers
• Law enforcement
• Firefighters
• Veterinarian and animal health care providers
• Emergency medical services personnel
• Emergency management
• Public health officials
• Public works personnel
• Elected officials

By learning the proper tools of assessment, participants can assist in response efforts, coordinate resources, and assure that all components of the response are carried out quickly and accurately to prevent further contamination.  Participants will receive training on the concepts of:

• Biosecurity
• Quarantine
• Personal protective equipment
• Euthanasia and disposal
• Cleaning and disinfection

Please complete the free registration process online by clicking “Register Now” at www.agpreparedness.org

If you have any questions or need additional information, don’t hesitate to contact Gavin Iacono at giacono@co.tulare.ca.us or 559-684-3350.