1nathaz.ppt last revised: 16 july 2002 natural hazards developed as part of the national emergency...

1NATHAZ.ppt Last Revised: 16 July 2002

Natural Hazards

Developed as part of the National Emergency Services Curriculum Project


General

• There are many things in our environment that can have a negative affect on the performance of ground team members Hot or Cold weather– Terrain– Poison Plants– Insects and Snakes– Fatigue


Terrain

• The terrain that teams are often working in can impact their performance– Cliffs and steep terrain– Drainage, flood or swampy areas– Rough terrain (boulder fields or areas of loose

rocks or sand)

• Allow enough time for your teams to safely traverse hazardous areas


Poison Plants

• Cover Exposed Skin

• Don’t handle plants or vines unnecessarily

• “If leaves are three, let this plant be

• If exposed, WASH– You– Clothing– Equipment


Poison Plants Continued


Snakes & Insects

• Be watchful for nests and resting places– Look before you leap

• Dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting insects or other critters

• Carry and use your medication for allergies as necessary


Insects to watch out for

Fire Ant


Insects to watch out for Continued

Honey/Bumble Bee



Wasp



Brown Recluse Spider



Black Widow Spider


Snakes to watch out for

Cottonmouth / Water Moccasin


Snakes to watch out for Continued

Cottonmouth / Water Moccasin



Canebreak Rattlesnake



Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake



Pigmy Rattlesnake



Copperhead Snake



Coral Snake


Fatigue

• Can cause reduced search effectiveness, lack of concentration, and possibly unnecessary injuries or death

• Everyone is susceptible

• Can be recognized and prevented


Fatigue Symptoms

• Inability to concentrate

• Slurring words, incomplete sentences and speech patterns

• Bloodshot eyes and haggard facial expression

• Inability to walk properly

• Drooping eyelids

• False energy or “slap happiness”


Preventing Fatigue

• Taking frequent breaks or catnaps when not on duty

• Eating light snacks through the day

• Changing seating arrangements in vehicles regularly

• Adequate sleep during crew rest periods

• Complete meals and adequate water intake


Preventing Fatigue Continued

• Sit, lie down, rest, and sleep whenever possible

• Do not engage in unnecessary physical activity when waiting for an assignment

• Buddy System - Watch each other

• If members show signs of fatigue take them off duty until they can be effective– You can be replaced


Natural Hazards Tasks

• Ground Team Member– O-0101: Identify Natural Hazards– O-0103: Prevent and Treat Fatigue


QUESTIONS?

1nathaz.ppt last revised: 16 july 2002 natural hazards developed as part of the national emergency...

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