In 2002, emergency responders gathered at the DoubleTree Hotel in Modesto for an anti-terrorism training seminar.

Dr. Michael W. Proctor, who heads the Department of Homeland Security's Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Ala., posed this scenario to hospital administrators:

If there were an explosion in the community, and people began arriving at emergency rooms complaining of burning skin, and decontamination was needed, what would you do?

One administrator said the hospital would call 911 and request help from the fire department. But a fire chief said all fire resources probably would be busy at the explosion site and unable initially to help at the hospital.

The doctor then asked about hospital security. Was there a plan and enough staff to guard each hospital entrance? People needing medical attention undoubtedly would try to find ways into the building, raising the risk of contaminating others.....First Response 

TY PHILLIPS-BEE STAFF WRITER