Communications leader Morrison County Communications Supervisor Jeff Jelinksi, center, was recently awarded the Communications Unit Leader Type III Certification. Upon qualifying and successfully completing his requirements, Jelinksi completed his certification at the Type III incident emergency training scenario held at Camp Ripley in 2009. Pictured with Jelinski are Deb Gruber, Morrison County Administrator and Michel Wetzel, Morrison County Sheriff. Jelinski is only one of four in the state of Minnesota recognized with the honor. Jeff Jelinksi, Morrison County Communications Supervisor, has received the Communications Unit Leader Type III Certification. The certificate was awarded by the Statewide Radio Board of Minnesota. Jelinski is one of four individuals recognized with this honor in the State of Minnesota.

This nationally recognized certificate trains emergency responders to lead communication during all-hazards emergency operation. This practice significantly improves communications across the multiple disciplines and jurisdictions when responding to an incident.

A number of requirements exist prior to being eligible to complete this certification. One in particular is a Type III incident event. In April of last year an emergency training scenario took place at Camp Ripley. The scenario included a plane skidding off of a runway and various hazards as a result.

During an all-hazards emergency such as the training exercise at Camp Ripley, Jelinski will lead the communication among those responding. This often includes emergency medical, fire and law enforcement services. Without an on-scene communications leader the effectiveness of the emergency response teams can be compromised in critical operations.

“Having the skill set to maintain good communications during an emergency is crucial to successful management of emergency situations,” said Sheriff Michel Wetzel. “Morrison County is better positioned to respond to a major event due to the training and certification Jelinski has received.”

Jeff received his certifi- cate from the Statewide Radio Board in late 2009.