NCJ Number
181435
Date Published
1999
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video advises public safety professionals on proper procedures for ensuring their safety while performing their professional duties in responding to chemical-biological incidents that threaten the lives and health of large numbers of people.
Abstract
Comments and advice by public safety professionals are accompanied by portrayals of the principles and procedures being advocated. Professionals advise that first responders to a scene involving large numbers of suffering victims whose suffering is of unknown origin should first pause, observe physical signs, and listen to victim complaints. They should resist the urge to rush to action until the nature of the threat is considered and proper protective clothing and equipment are present and in use. The scene should be approached from upwind, and first responders should stay clear of spills, vapor, and smoke. Special precautions must be taken when working in enclosed spaces. In managing the scene to render effective assistance, there must be coordination among the various rescue agencies arriving on the scene. Advice is provided for initial rescue actions and rapid evacuation. Also discussed is the development of policies for responding to chemical-biological incidents in a given jurisdiction. This involves the development of agreements and protocols and cooperative training. General rules for managing the media at incident sites are provided as well.