This 1.5-day course was developed to support State and Local Emergency Managers on Points of Distribution (POD) missions by providing in-depth training into the planning, operations, and demobilization stages of a POD mission. PODs are used during man-made and natural disasters to provide critical commodities to the public. The lessons detail the staffing and procedures and need to plan for, execute, and shut down POD operations. The training also includes key lessons such as safety, equipment, and resource accountability.  The course is a combination of classroom instruction, exercise activities, and practical application.

This course includes a practical/hands-on component on day 2. Please dress appropriately on day 2 including long pants and no open toe shoes, and be prepared to set up a CPOD outdoors in any weather. You may be asked to move and lift pallets, boxes, or other items as well as set up and place the equipment needed such as cones, tents, traffic signs and more, which could weigh 20 pounds or more.  If you have a reflective vest and gloves, please bring them to the training also for the practical component.

Additionally, there will be an optional session in the afternoon of day 2 where MEMA Logisticians and Regional staff will be available to review CPOD plans, discuss local CPOD challenges, and other specific details in a technical assistance session.