First Responders Face Unknown Hazards

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to floods and other disasters, a first responder is like the pioneers in days of old. The pioneers blazed trails through new territory and made possible the Westward expansion. They explored the unknown reaches of our country, often at significant personal risk.
The first responders of today have a similar role. The difference is that they already know their destination. What they don’t know is the extent of the damage they will encounter. They don’t know what hazards they will face. They don’t even know if they can reach the problem areas. They may face many risks:

• Diseases brought by the flood
• Injury from debris, damaged buildings, live electric wires and gas leaks
• Animal encounters

First Responders Work Together as Teams

Teamwork is an essential part of a flood response strategy. When necessary, a first responder can summon additional support. Together, they remove obstructions, eliminate hazards and make the area safe. Once this is complete, homeowners may return to their homes.

Immunizations Are an Important Part of Personal Safety

Flooded areas are breeding zones for diseases. Because first responders are on the front lines of the flood recovery, they are the most susceptible to water-borne and insect-borne illnesses. They are also at higher risk from the inevitable cuts and scrapes that occur in the performance of their duties.
Immunizations are the best way to avoid these diseases. Emergency workers require protection from tetanus and hepatitis B. Individual response units and agencies may require their members to get protection from additional diseases such as typhoid or cholera.

It’s Time To Return to Your Home

Don’t forget to thank every first responder you encounter. They make it possible for you to return home and start the restoration. It’s helpful to know that there are disaster recovery specialists located in the Cookeville, TN, area ready to help restore your home. They are just a phone call away. When it’s over, it will be “Like it never even happened.”