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This resource provides information on various natural hazards that can affect the performance of ground team members, such as hot or cold weather, terrain, poison plants, insects, and snakes. It also highlights the importance of preventing and treating fatigue during operations. Suitable for the National Emergency Services Curriculum Project.
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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
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
Insects to watch out for Continued Brown Recluse Spider
Insects to watch out for Continued Black Widow Spider
Snakes to watch out for Cottonmouth / Water Moccasin
Snakes to watch out for Continued Cottonmouth / Water Moccasin
Snakes to watch out for Continued Canebreak Rattlesnake
Snakes to watch out for Continued Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
Snakes to watch out for Continued Pigmy Rattlesnake
Snakes to watch out for Continued Copperhead Snake
Snakes to watch out for Continued 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