A new FINDER technology uses microwave radar to detect human breathing patterns and heartbeats in rubble. The system is sensitive enough to locate victims buried under 30 feet of debris, revolutionizing search and rescue operations.
A joint US-Canada experiment, CAUSE, successfully demonstrated the ability to exchange information between local, state, and national systems across international borders. First responders could visualize resource deployments using situational awareness tools like Virtual Maine and MASAS, improving response efforts.
The US Department of Homeland Security has developed two new technologies, Pit-BUL and NightHawk, which use remote-controlled spike strips to stop vehicles. These devices can be deployed from a safe distance and provide added safety for law enforcement officers, allowing them to halt speeding vehicles without putting their lives at ris...
The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has identified key technologies needed to enhance first responder capabilities. These include augmented reality eyeglasses, telemedicine, and assistive technologies that can aid in crime-fighting and medical procedures.
The US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has developed the BIOSwimmer, an unmanned underwater vehicle inspired by the tuna fish. It features a flexible aft section and fins for high maneuverability in hard-to-reach spaces, making it ideal for inspection and security missions.
The US Department of Homeland Security has created a surrogate semi-submersible called PLUTO to test detection systems for maritime security. The vessel is designed to mimic the features of illegal narco subs used by South American drug cartels, allowing operators to test and improve their sensors in real-world conditions.
The US Department of Homeland Security is conducting a series of tests in the Boston subway system to measure the real-world performance of new sensors designed to detect biological agents. The sensors, developed by several companies, are expected to identify and confirm the release of biological agents within minutes.
The Semi-Autonomous Pipe Bomb End-cap Remover (SAPBER) is a low-cost device that can disassemble pipe bombs while preserving forensic evidence. It has been tested in operational scenarios and shown to be effective and easy to use, marking a new era in capability for dealing with pipe bombs.
The new FMD vaccine is a molecular vaccine that does not use live FMD virus, allowing for differentiation between vaccinated and infected animals. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the economic impact of FMD outbreaks in the US, with potential cost savings estimated to exceed $50 billion.
The First Responder Support Tools (FiRST) application provides critical information to first responders in bomb threat scenarios, including safe distances, roadblock analysis and HAZMAT response guidance. The app is available for smartphones and laptops and can be used by anyone responding to a potential bomb or HAZMAT spill.
A series of experiments is assessing the potential vulnerability of critical structural components in aging steel bridges. Researchers are discovering how materials, connection details, and designs react to IEDs, kinetic impact, intense fires, and other accidents.
A new flood simulation tool, combined with the Dams Sector Analysis Tool, enables rapid visualization and training for emergency responders. The software can model catastrophic flooding in under 24 minutes, improving disaster management and preparedness.
The Resilient Tunnel Project developed an inflatable cylinder capable of containing 35,000 gallons of water or air to seal off a section of tunnel in emergency situations. The plug's design overcame challenges related to its size, strength, and pliability, with the help of advanced materials like Vectran and polyurethane.
The US electric grid is complex and vulnerable to failure, particularly with aging EHV transformers. The new 'Recovery Transformer' program aims to develop a modular, smaller, and lighter alternative that can be easily transported and installed.
The US Department of Homeland Security's Container Security Test Bed allows for the rapid testing of novel detection technologies for explosives, drugs, and other illicit substances in cargo containers. This facility enables researchers to simulate real-world conditions and evaluate the effectiveness of different sensor systems.
The Urban Blast Tool uses pre-calculated pressure loads to predict damage patterns in surrounding areas, enabling first responders to prioritize their activities. The tool can calculate the initial blast loads in fine detail and store those results for later use.
The Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate has published a series of guides to help buildings withstand extreme hazards, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and terrorism. These resources provide architects, engineers, and building owners with the tools needed to design critical infrastructure that can absorb...
A new backboard cover, Board Armor, has been developed to reduce infection rates in patients and save valuable emergency response time. The synthetic material disposable cover prevents bodily fluids from contaminating the backboard and eliminates the need for cleaning between uses.
The US Department of Homeland Security's DNSSEC project authenticates data existence, ownership, and integrity, protecting against hackers' threats. By deploying DNSSEC in key zones, DHS builds a safer cyberspace with complete end-to-end chain protection.
A recent study by NIST, funded by the US Department of Homeland Security, has overturned existing myths about wildfires, revealing new vulnerabilities in building materials. The research found that embers can easily ignite building materials placed behind vents, and ceramic-tile roofs are not as fire-resistant as thought.
The Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) rapidly rescues those trapped beneath concrete by creating a contained hole with high-energy jolts, making it up to four times faster than traditional methods. CIRT units have been distributed to various search-and-rescue teams across the US.
The US Department of Homeland Security has developed a miniaturized radiation dosimeter that can be stored on a credit-card-sized plastic card. This device, dubbed the Citizen's Dosimeter, can measure radiation exposure in real-time and provide life-saving early detection in nuclear accidents or dirty bomb incidents.
The Wireless Intelligent Sensor Platform for Emergency Responders (WISPER) combines three technologies to create a life-saving solution for firefighters. It features a microwave radio, navigation devices, and physiological health assessment system to track firefighters' locations and vital signs.
The US Secret Service is now using a virtual training environment called Virtual Tiny Town to prepare agents for real-life incidents. The new platform combines gaming technology and 3D modeling to simulate site security plans, allowing students to practice responding to scenarios such as chemical releases and suicide bombers.
Researchers have engineered plants to serve as sentinels for detecting pollutants and explosives, using a computer-designed detection trait that can be modified to function in various plant species. The system allows for fast and remote detection of threats, with visible changes appearing within days.
The Electronic Mass Casualty Assessment and Planning Scenarios (EMCAPS) software provides first responders with realistic casualty figures for catastrophic events. The program allows users to customize scenarios and estimate the number of likely casualties based on variables such as population density.
Engineers have created a quarter-inch-thick, lightweight, and colorless blast-resistant glass that can withstand explosions and severe weather. The new design features long glass fibers soaked in liquid plastic, providing a significant reinforcing effect to the polymer matrix.
The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a national standard for bomb suits to provide sufficient protection for first responders. The proposed standard outlines minimum performance requirements, including blast and thermal heat protection, freedom of motion, and defogger performance, to ensure the safety of bomb technicians.
The Resilient Home Program aims to reduce tornado-related fatalities by promoting safe room designs and construction. The program uses research and outreach efforts to communicate the importance of storm shelters, with a focus on increasing adoption in the Southeast region.
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory are testing lasers to scrub surfaces clean of sulfur mustard gas and VX, a nerve agent. The tests have proved successful on complex, porous surfaces like concrete.
A new simulation software called SportEvac is being developed to help stadiums evacuate large crowds quickly and safely. The software uses 3D virtual models of stadiums and simulates the behavior of thousands of people and cars in various scenarios.
The US Department of Homeland Security is developing portable water purification systems to address the global issue of dirty water, which claims over a million lives annually. Several companies are participating in the SECURE program, creating self-contained and self-powered systems that can be used in emergency situations.
A new initiative called Cell-All aims to equip cell phones with sensors capable of detecting deadly chemicals. The technology uses a chip costing less than a dollar and can alert the user and authorities in under 60 seconds, reducing false positives and improving response time.
The Optical Dynamic Detection (ODD) solution uses precise laser pulses to detect explosive materials, providing greater accuracy than spectroscopy-based methods. By amplifying return signals and reducing background noise, ODD helps identify threats more effectively.
The Virtual USA project aims to create a nationwide capability for sharing and standardizing life-saving emergency data in real-time. The platform, developed by the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate, enables seamless integration of disparate data sources, reducing communication barriers between age...
The Los Alamos National Laboratory's Magnetic Vision Innovative Prototype (MagViz) uses ultralow magnetic fields to detect liquid bombs and other hazardous materials. With an accuracy rate of over 99%, MagViz could significantly enhance airport security, allowing passengers to pass through with ease while keeping liquids at bay.
The Portable Lightweight Ubiquitous Gasket (PLUG) system, developed by Wil Laska, passed its second test in November 2009, demonstrating the ability to fill with water, float on flood currents, and adhere to breach sites. Four technologies were tested, including a large balloon or tube that worked as hypothesized.
The US Department of Homeland Security's new multi-band radio technology aims to improve communication among first responders during emergencies. The radios can work on five frequency bands currently used by state and local first responders, as well as four exclusive federal government bands.
The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new technology using ground-penetrating radar to detect tunnels along the US border. This innovative system will help agents locate and plug tunnels almost as fast as criminals can dig them, reducing the threat of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorist attacks.
The US Department of Homeland Security is developing a new triage tool called the Standoff Patient Triage Tool (SPTT), which uses Laser Doppler Vibrometry technology to take vital signs quickly from a distance.
The US Department of Homeland Security has successfully tested new camera prototypes in a simulated bomb attack, with 14 out of 16 surviving without image degradation. The cameras were designed to be rugged and affordable for use in mass transit venues, where full surveillance systems are not feasible.
The US Department of Homeland Security's study on Brain Music aims to enhance emergency response performance through neurotraining. Human Bionics LLC creates customized music compositions from brain waves to promote relaxation, alertness, and productivity.
US Department of Homeland Security scientist Mark Nicas builds mathematical models of spittle dispersal to inform countermeasures against potential biological attacks and pandemics. His research aims to reduce the risk of infection transmission on airplanes and in other public spaces, advising people to sit at least three rows away fro...
The US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate conducted an experiment where a retired public bus was rigged with explosives and cameras were detonated to assess their durability. Fourteen out of 16 memory chips survived the blast, demonstrating potential for these cameras in mass transit security.
US Department of Homeland Security scientists have developed a magnetic resonance imaging-based system to detect harmful liquids, gels, and lotions in baggage and on passengers. The MagViz system is promising and may eventually replace traditional X-ray systems.
The US Department of Homeland Security has developed a non-lethal traffic stopper called SQUID, which uses sticky tendrils to immobilize vehicles. The device, inspired by a sea creature and Spiderman's webbing, aims to provide a safer alternative to traditional methods of stopping fleeing drivers.
The Controlled Impact Rescue Tool (CIRT) is a new concrete-busting technology that has shown faster breach times than traditional methods. It can break through thick concrete walls or barriers in about 13 minutes, compared to 29 minutes or more for other rescue tools.
The US Department of Homeland Security has developed a wearable hood for emergency escape with 15-minute chemical protection. The EH-15 mask provides protection against chemicals and biologics, has a three-year shelf life, and highly efficient particulate filters.
A new security system, ARMOR, uses randomization to analyze data on vehicle checkpoints and canine searches, providing a model for police operations. This system aims to enhance safety by minimizing the predictability of potential terrorist attacks.
Researchers create ways to visualize and analyze unstructured data, assigning brightness, color, and texture to identify potential threats. This technology can automatically recognize patterns and detect unexpected connections between data points.