Remember FPCONs during NSI, CSI

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Carla Bernard
  • Operations supervisor
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  As the Nuclear Surety Inspection and Compliance Inspection rapidly approaches, everyone needs to be reminded of the importance of knowing the Force Protection Condition, as well as the measures that accompany it. Part of what the inspections will focus on is how the base and its personnel respond to changes in FPCON, and if they properly implement the appropriate FPCON measures. Here are a few things to keep in mind for the upcoming inspections: 

Perhaps the most important thing is to actually KNOW what FPCON the base is currently in. Unit Control Centers have the responsibility of making sure everyone in their unit is informed of any change in FPCON. The appropriate FPCON signs should be posted at installation and facility entrances. Everyone should also have a general idea of why we move up in FPCON (for example, attack on base facilities, specific threat to the base, etc.). The UCCs are responsible for disseminating this information. 

There are numerous measures that accompany each FPCON. For example, in FPCON Bravo, parking spaces right next to buildings should be coned or roped off in order to achieve a greater standoff distance (as close to 82 feet as possible). In FPCON Charlie, door guards must be posted and all personnel entering facilities must be positively identified, and properly logged when entering and exiting the facility. 

If you are unsure of any of the FPCON measures, contact your unit Antiterrorism representative. Every unit on base has one. This person has access to all of the FPCON measures and is responsible for knowing which measures are to be implemented and by whom. Keep in mind some measures are the responsibility of certain squadrons or individuals, so the unit may not have to implement many of them. 

As FPCONs increase, so should your awareness level. Be on the lookout for any suspicious individuals and packages, and make sure you know the correct procedure should you encounter any. A suspicious package may not look so suspicious. It may look like a gym bag sitting by itself in the fitness center, or a plain cardboard box in a hallway. First and most importantly, don't touch it. Attempt to determine if it belongs to anyone. Someone may have just put it down and wandered not far from it. Don't spend a lot of time trying to find the owner. Next, evacuate the area and call 911. When tested recently in many buildings around base and found, many people tried to notify or call their commander, UCC or the Support Battle Staff before they dialed 911. 

If you keep these things in mind, your unit should do well in this fundamental, but it is very important component of the inspections. Remember to contact your UCC and Unit AT Representative if you have questions.