In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, fire and rescue professionals can’t help but wonder how their training can be improved to better prepare themselves and their communities for the next terrorist-related disaster. One such local organization, the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute, has some answers.

The Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) of the University of Maryland is the State’s comprehensive training and education system for emergency services. The Institute plans, researches, develops, and delivers quality programs to enhance the ability of emergency service providers to protect life, the environment, and property.

Steven Edwards is the Director of the Maryland Fire and Rescue Institute (MFRI) at the University of Maryland at College Park. He coordinates the training of the state's fire and rescue services departments and members. According to Edwards, “MFRI trains over 28,000 students each year in a wide variety of fire service and emergency medical subjects.”

“Several major things have occurred since the September 11th attack.  More funding is available for fire training programs and equipment, and training programs have been re-structured to include response to terrorism incidents.”  Prior to the September 11th attack, only specialty units were provided terrorism training.  “Now it is recognized that every firefighter needs a certain level of terrorism response training,” replied Edwards. “Much more interest and assistance is being provided from the federal government to fire departments on how to respond to these events, and a different mindset and awareness within the fire service regarding the magnitude and difficulty of this type of response has spurred the introduction of new training standards and programs.”

Edwards has served with the Prince George's County Fire Department for 25 years, retiring as Fire Chief to accept his current position.  In addition, he was a member of the Maryland Fire and Rescue Education and Training Commission and several other statewide fire service groups. Edwards received a Bachelor of Science degree in Fire Service Management and a Masters Degree in General Administration.