GovBytes: ‘Robot Rodeo’ Prepares Oklahoma Law Enforcement for Bomb Incidents

Prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.

This common adage speaks to how most people would act in a crisis situation. (But, of course, hindsight is always 20/20.)

In matters of safety, it can be somewhat difficult to adequately prepare for a realistic situation. But Oklahoma City and its surrounding areas are doing just that, according to this article over at Government Technology.

Each year, the city and its neighbors gather to hold a “robot rodeo” where robots that aid in threatening scenarios are showcased.

Last week, law enforcement officials from Oklahoma City, Edmond, Oklahoma County and Norman as well as the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, military and FBI were in attendance for an annual “robot rodeo” held at the State Fair Park in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma has seven FBI-certified bomb squads, according to the state government’s website. The seven squads are placed in nine locations, and each squad has received a standardized robot for use during bomb response incidents.

The robots, as well as their technically-savvy operators, are put through the wringers throughout the day at six different stations. The rodeo also acts as an avenue through which bomb squads in the area can network and share best practices.

I think this is a fantastic idea, especially in terms of public safety. Having an event like this where the operators can share best practices, as well as operate the robots in a (relatively) stress-free environment, can only be good for the different operators.

Does your agency or field engage in a similar event that gathers experts to share experiences? How has that experience helped you? Is crisis management part of the dialogue?

Robot Rodeo Prepares Oklahoma Law Enforcement for Bomb Incidents

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