Approximately 30 participants from multiple emergency response agencies in Antigua and Barbuda, including Barbuda, have completed a four-day hazardous materials (Hazmat) training programme aimed at strengthening national response capacity.

The training, coordinated by the National Office of Disaster Services, was delivered in partnership with United States Southern Command and the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Global Institute for Community Health and Development. Sessions were held at the Sir Wright George Police Academy.

Participants received both theoretical and practical instruction on handling hazardous substances, including chemicals and radioactive materials. The programme concluded on Thursday with a hands-on exercise covering hazard identification, the use of personal protective equipment, and techniques for the removal, neutralization and disposal of dangerous materials.

Attendees represented a cross-section of national response agencies, including NODS, the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, Emergency Medical Services, the Police Force and the Fire Department.

The initiative forms part of ongoing preparations for the annual Tradewinds Exercise, a regional security and disaster response exercise sponsored by U.S. Southern Command, scheduled to take place in Antigua from June 3 to 17.