Responders to use DOD-grade simulation

First responders will be able to recreate real-life scenarios using military-grade 3-D simulation technology under a $1 million contract that the Homeland Security Department recently awarded to Reality Response.

Reality Response, a Seattle-based division of Advanced Interactive Systems, will use the funds to convert its PC-based SVS platform for use in first responder training and exercises, company officials said.

Desktop computers and an Internet-based distributed network offer a high-fidelity and cost-effective platform for event rehearsal and security management to test responses to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or explosive events, officials said.

Participants in exercises that use the SVS platform would manipulate their animated image or "avatar" as they would operate in the real world. They would have all the weapons, radios and other equipment that they would use in actual emergency situations.

Each exercise would be digitally recorded, enabling people to review them from perspectives ranging from participant to high-level commander.

Reality Response has been developing simulation-training systems for the military since 1993.