Mock disaster drills for EMA help

first responders hone their skills

[Click on photos below to enlarge.]

[June 16, 2012]     Send a link to a friend

In this scenario, the victims will have to go through not only a water bath but also the decontamination tent.

Pictures by Nila Smith

A young victim lies calling for help in the midst of the chaos. Remember, this is happening at Scully Park during the balloon festival. There are hundreds of people who have been exposed to this noxious chemical.

Victims are classified as to their current condition. Those who are able to walk on their own are referred to as the "walking wounded." They are directed to the water bath and then assisted in going though the de-con tent.

 

 

A young victim emerges from the tent thoroughly soaked.

Victims then are asked to put on hazmat suits. The tags they are wearing around their necks are for the training and will tell the first responders if they are injured to the point of requiring hospitalization.

 

And sadly, there is another deceased victim.

Even the rescuers clad in their special suits have to go through de-con.

 

 

Again, after such a drill, they don't have to pretend to be hot and tired. The plastic suits and headgear are designed to keep air out, which also keeps the heat in.

And under the suits they still have to wear protective face masks with breathing apparatus and oxygen tanks attached.

 

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