First Responders Ready

By: George McDonald

Updated: Tue 10:17 AM, Mar 18, 2003

America's Fight Against Terrorism

Emergency professionals from across the state met in Philadelphia for the Governor's First Responders Conference.

It's intended to strengthen Mississippi's homeland security efforts by helping emergency personnel and elected officials to better understand and react to crises.

"You have to realize that, if it happens at home, people panic," said DeKalb Police Chief Kirk Merchant. "It's going to take someone who knows how to react, knows what to do."

The training is also aimed at developing a spirit of cooperation between agencies.

Thomas, Jack Share Visions for Ward One