By-Line: Julie Murphy, Flagler County Government
Flagler County this week was proud to host a nationally recognized training program designed to strengthen emergency communication capabilities across all levels of government. From April 14 through 18, the State/Federal Communications Technician (COM-T) Course was held at the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), thanks to the coordination efforts of the county’s Emergency Management team.
The course—highly regarded in the emergency and disaster response field—equips participants with essential knowledge and best practices to support communications during incidents ranging from natural disasters, like hurricanes, to manmade disasters, such as terrorist attacks. This 40-hour program follows the Department of Homeland Security’s COM-T curriculum and is facilitated by specialized instructors.
Along with Emergency Management staff, Flagler County Fire Rescue was represented by three team members in the course, underscoring the County’s commitment to maintaining cutting-edge readiness for disaster response.
“This is a huge win for Flagler County,” said Emergency Management Director Jonathan Lord. “Bringing this level of training, with instructors and participants from across the state and country, to our own backyard enhances our operational readiness and builds stronger regional partnerships. Communications are the backbone of any emergency response—and having local personnel trained at this level makes a real difference.”
The COM-T course is specifically designed for local, regional, state, and federal emergency responders with communications responsibilities, including those involved in managing deployable communications vehicles and equipment that can restore critical emergency communications after a significant emergency or disaster.
“This training strengthens our ability to serve Flagler County during its greatest times of need,” said Fire Rescue Chief Mike Tucker. “By investing in our team’s knowledge and expanding our technical capabilities, we’re raising the bar on emergency response across the board.”
Flagler County continues to lead the way in public safety preparedness, and hosting this class highlights the County’s leadership in emergency communications and cross-agency coordination.
