By FMESA President and CSLEA Director BJ Jones
The California Office of Emergency Services Law Enforcement Branch (Cal OES LEB), in collaboration with the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), held a Crisis Management and Command Conference on February 24 & 25, 2026, in Rohnert Park.
Cal OES LEB Assistant Chiefs played a significant role in coordinating and participating in this important event. The conference marked the first in a series to be hosted throughout California and was designed to prepare and strengthen executive leadership in addressing today’s all-hazards emergency challenges.
Tailored specifically for managers, commanders, and executive decision-makers, the conference moved beyond foundational Incident Command System (ICS) principles to deliver practical insights, actionable strategies, and leadership-focused solutions. The event primarily served Mutual Aid Regions II, III, and IV.
During the two-day program, respected active and retired law enforcement executives and subject-matter experts presented on key topics, including:
- Lessons learned and incident reviews
- The use of Incident Management Teams
- Developing a culture of emergency management within an agency
- Media access and crisis communications
- Additional crisis management best practices
Cal OES LEB Assistant Chiefs are responsible for coordinating Law Enforcement Mutual Aid (LEMA) requests statewide. As union members and community stakeholders within their respective mutual aid regions, they maintain a vested interest in ensuring effective and coordinated emergency response when incidents occur.
Critical incidents throughout California often unfold rapidly and under chaotic conditions. Proactive training and executive-level preparation are essential to successfully managing emergencies of any type.
FMESA Bargaining Unit 7 members proudly serve as trainers and educators for the Cal OES LEB POST certified 16-hour Law Enforcement Mutual Aid (LEMA) course. This course is specifically designed for law enforcement professionals who have mutual aid responsibilities within their agencies.
The POST Plan IV certified course provides a foundational understanding of California’s Law Enforcement Mutual Aid System and emphasizes both theory and practical application. Participants work through key concepts and coordination processes, culminating in a Tabletop Exercise (TTX) that validates their understanding and decision-making skills.
POST covers student travel, per diem, and tuition costs. Cal OES LEB does not charge tuition, and eligible agency attendees are reimbursed by POST when established criteria are met.
Upcoming LEMA Course
The next Cal OES LEB LEMA Course will be hosted by the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office on March 26 & 27, 2026.
Interested attendees may apply through the official Cal OES LEB training page.
The course flyer and additional details are available on the Cal OES LEB website.
