Preventive Radiation Nuclear Detection (PRND) Program
Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) Preventive Radiological Nuclear Detection (PRND) program:
Established in 2009 as part of the NM Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, the DHSEM PRND program was created to improve and further enhance the capability to detect and report unauthorized attempts to import, possess, store, develop, or transport radiological/nuclear material intended for use against the nation and state of New Mexico.
As outlined in DHSEM’s PRND program’s strategic objectives, a critical component of the detection architecture is the development of the domestic interior layer. DHSEM PRND program relies on its local-level partners to create an effective, statewide preventive detection system and to coordinate capabilities with neighboring jurisdictions. DHSEM recognizes that there are challenges to developing these capabilities and is committed to addressing those challenges. To accomplish this, DHSEM will capitalize on existing local initiatives and programs and will work to provide the tools to build additional capabilities and to foster improved communications, advanced equipment interoperability, and knowledge sharing among Federal, State, and local Governments.
Daily functions of the DHSEM PRND program manager include but not limited to:
- Develop the detection architecture and ensure linkages across State, territorial, tribal, and local agencies.
- Conduct aggressive evolutionary and transformational research and development programs to improve detection technologies’ probability of detection by integrating and deploying current technologies and improving those capabilities over time.
- Enhance the nuclear detection efforts of State, territorial, tribal, and local Governments, and the private sector to ensure a coordinated response.
- Establish standards, response protocols, and training across the State, territorial, tribal, and local Government levels to ensure that detection leads to timely response to threats.
- Enhance the effective sharing and use of nuclear detection-related information and intelligence.
- Maintain continuous awareness by analyzing information from all mission-related detection systems.
- Maintain liaison with all territorial, tribal, and local agencies on current matters or issues
- Plan and assist for large scale events throughout the state in Preventive Radiation Nuclear Detection venue protection.
- Primary lead in the state for the PRND working group comprised of the state’s largest cities Fire service and Law enforcement officials.