On the agenda: Auburn meeting — Data Center (Jan 14)

AGENDA
JUDICIAL & PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE

Ward O’Hara Agricultural Museum
6880 East Lake Road Rt. 38 A, Auburn, New York

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 4:00PM
Live Stream Link: https://www.youtube.com/live/9J_ocfW4uoM
CALL TO ORDER: By Hon. Mark Strong, Chair
MEMBERS: Legislators Aileen McNabb-Coleman, Hans Pecher, Ben Vitale, and Tom Winslow
MINUTES TO APPROVE: December 2, 2025
APPOINTMENTS:
PROC
David Perkins, 96 Cayuga Street, Union Springs, NY 13160, Term – 1/1/26 to 12/31/29
Traffic Safety Board
Darren Walawender, 152-154 Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021, Term – 12/12/25 to 12/11/28
Susan Azzarelli, 95 Genesee St, 1st Floor, Auburn, NY 13021, Term – 12/12/25 to 12/11/28
DEPARTMENT UPDATES FOR COMMITTEE:
Denise Spingler (911) –
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Policy Matters for Committee
o Staffing update
Administrative Updates
o Annual Report – will be finalized and distributed during meeting
Emergency Communications System
o No updates
Backup Center
o No updates

Lloyd Hoskins (Assigned Counsel) –
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There were 57 arraignments at the Centralized Arraignment Program for the month of December. The Assigned Counsel
office calendared fifteen attorneys to cover the 7am and 7pm arraignments. The attorney cost associated with CAP for
December was $10,280.00. These expenses were paid from an ILS (Indigent Legal Services) grant. Of the 57 arraignments,
23 (40%) were for town/village courts, 32 (56%) were for Auburn City Court and 2 (4%) were for County Court. 32 (56%)
defendants were released (ROR) and 25 (44%) defendants were held on bail or held for other reasons. Of the 57 arraignments,
25 (44%) were brought in on arrest/bench warrants. 16 Orders of Protection were issued.
There were 56 Counsel at First Appearance for Auburn City Court and 15 Counsel at First Appearance in town/village courts.
The Assigned Counsel office calendared seventeen attorneys to cover the “on-call” arraignments. The attorney cost associated
with Counsel at First Appearance for December was $11,576.00. These expenses were paid from an ILS (Indigent Legal
Services) grant.
The Assigned Counsel office made attorney assignments to 45 defendants in Auburn City Court, 9 defendants in County Court
and 27 defendants in Justice courts for October. A total of 41 assignments were made in Family Court.
Two resolutions have been submitted for consideration. Resolution to sign a two-year lease for the Assigned Counsel Program
at their current location at the Auburn Professional Building and a resolution for a one year reappointment of the Assigned
Counsel Administrator

Dr. Adam Duckett (Coroner) – No updates
Brittany Antonacci (District Attorney) –
o

Grand Jury Indictments for month of November: 15
 December: 18

Riley Shurtleff (Emergency Services) – No updates

Tyrone Thomas (Probation) –

We had 415 Investigations ordered in 2025 (not including Juvenile Investigations).
We currently have 665 Adult Supervision cases, 21 JD Cases, and 382 Restitution cases we are monitoring.
I’m currently looking at another company to do our Electronic Home Monitoring that will do this much cheaper.

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Brian Schenck (Sheriff) –
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At the time of this report, we are holding 129 incarcerated individuals in the jail. We have 15 Federal and 6 local
board-ins. We also have 13 NY State Parolees detained for new charges and 2 Parolees detained for a violation of
parole.
We lost three veteran Custody Deputies to retirement in December. Hiring new qualified staff is not keeping pace
with staff losses. The SEACC (jail union) labor contract expired at the end of 2025.
On December 11th we held our annual staff recognition ceremony at the Public Safety Training Center. Numerous
staff members were recognized for outstanding service as well as 2 civilians who aided during critical incidents.
Challenging weather conditions due to snow and wind have made for increased call volumes primarily due to
traffic incidents for our Road Patrol Division.
We are beginning the process of accrediting our Civil Division.

Debra Dennis (Stop DWI) – No updates
911:
1-26-JP-1

RESOLUTIONS:

Authorizing the Chairperson of the Cayuga County Legislature to sign an agreement for the upgrade to
the AIS (Archiving Interface System) which provides the audio from the Motorola radio system to the
Eventide recorder for required recording purposes.

ASSIGNED COUNSEL:
1-26-JP-2
Appointing Administrator Indigent Defendants (PT) and setting the rate of compensation
1-26-JP-3

Authorizing the Chair of The Legislature to Lease Office Space for Office of Assigned Counsel

DISTRICT ATTORNEY:
1-26-JP-4
Authorizing the District Attorney to accept a grant from New York State Office of Victim Services to
continue the Victim/Witness Program
OES:
1-26-JP-5

Authorizing The Cayuga County Legislature To Adopt The Amended Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid
Plan

PROBATION:
1-26-JP-6
Authorizing the Chairperson of the Legislature to execute an agreement between the Cayuga County
Probation Department and IPPC Technologies, Inc. for monitoring services for sex offenders.
SHERIFF:
1-26-JP-7
STOP DWI:
1-26-JP-8
1-26-JP-9

Authorize the Cayuga County Sheriff and the Chairman of the Cayuga County Legislature to renew a
contract with Galls LLC to supply uniforms for the Cayuga County Custody and Patrol Divisions
Authorizing the Disbursement of Planned Annual Appropriations to the Cayuga County Schools
for After Prom Events for Academic Year 2025-2026 from the STOP DWI Program Budget
Authorizing the Legislative Approval of the 2026 Cayuga County STOP DWI Plan

ADJOURNMENT: Wednesday, February 11, 2026
If you have a disability and need accommodations, please call the Clerk of the Legislature’s office at 253-1308 at least 48 hours
before the scheduled meeting to advise what accommodations will be necessary.

1-26-JP-1
RESOLUTION NO. _______________

1/27/26

911 interact insight

Authorizing the Chairperson of the Cayuga County Legislature to sign an agreement for the upgrade to the AIS
(Archiving Interface System) which provides the audio from the Motorola radio system to the Eventide recorder
for required recording purposes.
BY:

Mr. Mark Strong, Chairperson, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Mr. Elane Daly, Chairperson, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, Cayuga County 911 Center records all incoming and outgoing calls as well as all radio transmissions
occurring on the Emergency Communications System; and
WHEREAS, the 911 Center is required to save all telephone calls and radio transmissions for a minimum of 36 months;
and
WHEREAS, Motorola is updating the AIS version for the P25 radio system in March 2026 making it mandatory that
Interaction Insight update the software to the Motorola AIS version for the Eventide NexLog DX recording system from
version 2022.1 to 2024.1; and
WHEREAS, Interaction Insight has provided a quote in the amount of $17,269.90 for the licensing and upgrade costs;
and
WHEREAS, Interaction Insight is the current contracted vendor responsible for the maintenance and support of the
Cayuga County E-911 Eventide recording system; and
WHEREAS, the AIS upgrade is a proprietary component that must be upgraded, configured, and supported by the
existing vendor to ensure continuity of service, and compliance with the recording and retention requirements making
Interaction Insight a sole source procurement for this mandatory upgrade and ensuring compliance with the Cayuga
County Purchasing Policy; and
WHEREAS, there is funding in the Cayuga County 911 budget A30204 54063 for this purpose; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Chairman of the Cayuga County Legislature be authorized to sign an agreement with Interaction
Insight Corporation for the upgrade to the AIS, upon approval as to form by the County Attorney’s Office.

1-26-JP-2
RESOLUTION NO.______________

01/27/26

AC Appointment

Appointing Administrator Indigent Defendants (PT) and setting the rate of compensation
BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, the position of Administrator Indigent Defendants PT is a one (1) year fixed term appointment; and
WHEREAS, Lloyd E. Hoskins has held the position as Administrator since January 1, 1994; and
WHEREAS, it is the intent of this Legislature to provide continuity of leadership of this mandated service; now therefore be
it
RESOLVED, that Lloyd E. Hoskins is hereby appointed as Administrator Indigent Defendants, PT to serve for a one (1)
year term commencing January 30, 2026, and ending January 31, 2027, and be it further,
RESOLVED, that compensation rate be set at $45 per hour, and placed in Part III of the Cayuga County Compensation Plan,
and be it further
RESOLVED, that the appointment be made in accordance with Civil Service Rules and Regulations, and the Policies of the
County of Cayuga.

1-26-JP-3
RESOLUTION NO._______________

01/27/26 AC Authorize Renew WAT33 LLC Rev 4

Authorizing the Chair of The Legislature to Lease Office Space for Office of Assigned Counsel .

BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, Resolution No.357-24 authorizes the Chair of the Legislature to execute and deliver a lease agreement by and
between the County of Cayuga and WST33, LLC for the subject office suite, for a term of one (1) year; and
WHEREAS, the Lease expired on October 31, 2025; and
WHEREAS, the small suite of suitable office space located at the 33 William Street professional Building, Auburn, NY is available
and continues to be available for lease, with such offices within one block of the Cayuga County Courthouse; and
WHEREAS, considering the suitability of this suite to accommodate the Office of Assigned Counsel in terms of employee and
service space needs, proximity to the County Courts, the availability of the space against the current time constraints and full
reimbursement of County lease costs from NY State Grant Funding; and
WHEREAS, the landlord has proposed and has offered a two-year lease agreement (11/01/25-10/31/27) with a cost of $2,555.00
per month; and
WHEREAS, the monies are in the 2026 Assigned Counsel Budget; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Legislature hereby authorizes the Chair of the Legislature to execute and deliver a two (2)
lease agreement by and between the County of Cayuga and WST33, LLC for the subject office suite, upon such terms as may be
negotiated by the County Attorney’s Office with a monthly cost of $2,555.00; and be it further

1-26-JP-4
RESOLUTION NO. ________

1/27/26 DA Victim Witness Grant 2026

Authorizing the District Attorney to accept a grant from New York State Office of Victim Services to continue the
Victim/Witness Program
BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, the Grant Contract from the New York State Office of Victim Services is extended for the contract period
10/1/2025 – 9/30/2026 with annual award amount of 54,639.68 to continue operation of the Victim/Witness Services
Program out of the District Attorney’s Office; and
WHEREAS, the grant program requires the District Attorney to comply with legal requirements and to carry out the terms
of the grant program necessary to support the services associated with the grant; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the District Attorney is authorized to accept the said Grant funding to continue the Victim/Witness
Program; and it is further
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Finance Director be authorized and directed to make the journal and accounting
entries appropriate and necessary to implement this resolution.

1-26-JP-5
RESOLUTION NO. _____________ 1/27/26

OES Amend and Adopt Countywide Fire Mutual Aid Plan rev

Authorizing The Cayuga County Legislature To Adopt The Amended Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan
BY: Hon. Mark Strong, Chairman, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
WHEREAS, it continues to be identified in New York State Executive Law Article 2B that local Governments and
Political Subdivisions shall have a plan for Mutual Aid among Fire Departments within the County; and
WHEREAS, The Cayuga County Legislature, Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, Cayuga County Fire
Coordinator, and the Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board recognize the need for the Mutual Aid Plan, addressing the use
of local, County, State, and/or Federal resources in times of disaster of large-scale incidents in Cayuga County; and
WHEREAS, The Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan has been developed in accordance with the recommendations of
the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control for its first update since 2020; and
WHEREAS, the Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, County Fire Coordinator and Cayuga County Fire
Advisory Board, and NYS OFPC, have gathered the necessary information, to make necessary and appropriate revisions
and to update and amend the Mutual Aid Plan to reflect current services provided by the County, the relevant staff for
same, and to meet the set standards identified in Article 2B; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Mutual Aid Plan is to aid and protect all Cayuga County Communities in the case of
natural or man-made disaster, fire and other emergencies in which the services of fire fighters, rescue personnel and their
equipment would be used to cooperate and act in accordance with State and Local Laws, and;
WHEREAS, the goal of this Plan is to ensure a safe, rapid and controlled response to any disaster or emergency, to save
lives, reduce personal injury and loss, reduce damage to property, and reduce damage to the environment; and
WHEREAS, the Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board passed unanimous approval of this amended version at their
December 2025 meeting and recommends its passage to the Cayuga County Legislature: now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Legislature has reviewed and adopts the amended Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid
Plan (copy attached) and the finalized annexes and addendums as this jurisdiction’s Fire Mutual Aid Plan in its entirety;
and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Director of Emergency Services, and Fire Coordinator execute the actions identified in its
jurisdictional authority when it becomes deemed necessary and appropriate.
RESOLVED, the Chairperson of the Cayuga County Legislature, and the Director of Emergency Services are hereby
authorized to finalize this plan and to sign any and all documents necessary for acceptance and execution of such

Fire Mutual Aid
Plan Cayuga
County, NY
Prepared by:
Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services
Harry Sherman, Deputy Director
160 Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-255-1163
E-Mail: [email protected]
Revised: 03/05/2025
Originally Adopted: 09/25/1958
Adopted by Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board:
Approved by Cayuga County Judicial & Public Safety
Committee: Adopted by Cayuga County Legislature:
Submitted to New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control:

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction, Purpose......................................................................................................................5
Definition of Mutual Aid. .............................................................................................................. 5
Amendments ................................................................................................................................... 5
Plan Maintenance/Review .............................................................................................................. 6
Participation ................................................................................................................................... 6
List of Elected Officers .................................................................................................................. 7
Extent and Limit of Participation with Adjacent Counties............................................................ 7
Entering and participating in the Plan ............................................................................................ 7
Withdrawal from the Plan ............................................................................................................... 8
Liability ........................................................................................................................................... 8
Line of Authority ............................................................................................................................ 9
Maintenance of Individuality ..........................................................................................................9
Authority of “Requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge ...................................... 9
Request for Mutual Aid… ............................................................................................................ 10
Obligation to Respond… .............................................................................................................. 10
Incident Command System.......................................................................................................... 10
Automatic Mutual Aid/Automatic Mutual Aid Preplans ............................................................. 11
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator Hierarchy ............................................................................... 11
Extent and limit of Authority of Cayuga County Fire Coordinator..............................................12
Authority and Responsibility of the Regional Fire Administrator .............................................. 12

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TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)

Procedure to obtain activation of NYS Fire Mobilization Plan… .......................................................... 12
Retirement provisions relating to the position of Regional Fire Administrator .....................................12
County number issued under the State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan…............................... 12
Concept of Operations ........................................................................................................................... 13
Cayuga County Radio Frequencies ....................................................................................................... 14
Inventory of Fire Apparatus ...................................................................................................................... 15
Fire Reporting .......................................................................................................................................... 15
Training and Education… ......................................................................................................................... 15
Standard Thread ....................................................................................................................................... 16
Large Diameter Hose ................................................................................................................................ 16
Accountability ..........................................................................................................................................16
Additional Participation Requirements ................................................................................................... 16
The Cayuga County Fire Investigation Unit............................................................................................ 17
The Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Unit ..................................................................................... 17
Cayuga County Technical Rescue Plan… ............................................................................................. 18
Cayuga County Emergency Services Units...........................................................................................18
Use and Abuse of Mutual Aid ................................................................................................................. 18

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Appendix A – Sample Resolution’s
A-1 Resolution by Fire Department and/or Fire Company ........................................... 20
A-2 Resolution by Village/Town/Fire District .............................................................. 21
Appendix-B - Cayuga County Arson Control Plan…................................................................. 22
Appendix-C - Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Team Suggested Operating Guidelines.25
Appendix-D - Cayuga County Fire Coordinator and Deputy Fire Coordinators ........................ 153
Appendix-E - Cayuga County Fire Coordinator Line of Authority .......................................... 154
Appendix-F- Cayuga County Maps
F-1 Cayuga County Fire Districts .............................................................................. 155
F-2 Cayuga County Fire Battalions........................................................................... 157
F-3 Battalion Summary .............................................................................................. 159
Appendix-G – Cayuga County Apparatus Typing ................................................................... 161
Appendix-H- Cayuga County Fire Department Addresses ..................................................... 173
Appendix-I– Cayuga County Apparatus/Resource Guide
Appendix J – Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board Best Practices

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Introduction
:
The Cayuga County Legislature, Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, Cayuga
County Fire Coordinator, and the Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board recognize the need
for the Mutual Aid Plan, addressing the use of local, County, State, and/or Federal resources
in times of disaster of large-scale incidents in Cayuga County. To that end, The Cayuga
County Fire Mutual Aid Plan has been developed in accordance with the recommendations
of the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
Purpose:
The purpose of this Plan is to aid and protect all Cayuga County Communities in the case of
natural or man-made disaster, fire and other emergencies in which the services of fire
fighters, rescue personnel and their equipment would be used to cooperate and act in
accordance with State and Local Laws. Fire Protection and Rescue Operations are
challenges faced daily by Local Fire and Rescue Agencies. These activities become even
more intense during muti-agency/ multi-emergency/multi-hazard/multi-discipline responses.
The goal of this Plan is to ensure a safe, rapid and controlled response to any disaster or
emergency, to save lives, reduce personal injury and loss, reduce damage to property, and
reduce damage to the environment.
Definitions:
Mutual Aid is an organized, supervised, coordinated, cooperative, reciprocal assistance in
which personnel, equipment and physical facilities of all participating fire departments,
regardless of type or size, are utilized for fire and other emergencies in which the services of
firefighters would be used throughout the County of Cayuga and adjacent areas.
Fire Departments as used in this Plan, the term “Fire Department” shall include all units of
fire departments, fire companies, rescue agencies and/or fire districts whether incorporated
or not and shall mean and include any firefighting and rescue units as may be defined in
Section 209 of the General Municipal Law.
The term or phrase Fire Department shall mean and be used synonymously for Fire
Department, Fire Company, and Rescue Organizations for the purpose of this Plan.
Amendments:
Amendments to this Plan may be made yearly, in the Month of January, and will follow this
procedure:
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The suggested amendments shall be submitted in writing to the Fire Coordinator by a
participating fire department prior to October 31st.
The suggested amendments shall be investigated, evaluated, and presented to the
Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board by the Fire Coordinator.
The suggested amendments shall be reviewed and approved by the Cayuga County Fire
Advisory Board.

5

Amendments (continued)
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The approved amendments shall be submitted to the Cayuga County Legislature by the Fire
Coordinator on behalf of the Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board and adopted by the Cayuga
County Legislature.
The Legislative adopted amendments shall be submitted to the New York State Office of Fire
Prevention and Control for admission to the NYS Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan.

Plan Maintenance and Review:
All Fire Departments participating in the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan are
encouraged to review the Plan annually, or at any time there is a change in the operational
management structure of the agency. If at any time during the review process, the Chief or
Director of the agency determines that there is an issue that needs to be addressed, the Chief
or Director should direct their concerns to the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator in writing, to
be addressed during the annual review.
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator shall, by December 15th each year, conduct a review of
the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan for content and operational changes if necessary. If
a change is to occur based on this annual review, each fire department participating in this
Plan shall receive a notification of the change via United States Postal Service and/or email.
The Plan as a whole will not be redrafted, and resolutions re-signed based on simple annual
changes. Should a significant change be in order, the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator will,
through the Fire Advisory Borad, call for a full revision.
The Cayuga County Fire Advisory Board and the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator will review
the Mutual Aid Plan every 5 years for a full review, revision, and re-signing. As stated above,
The Fire Coordinator can call for full review and revision on an off year if situations develop
that they deem appropriate.
Participation:
All Town, Village, Fire District and independent Fire Departments in Cayuga County, or Fire
Departments that maintain or contract a primary response area within Cayuga County may
fully participate in this Plan.

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Participation(continued)
Fire Departments in Cayuga County presently participating in this Plan:
Auburn-06001
Aurelius-06002
Aurora-06003
Cato-06004
Cayuga-06005

Fleming-06008
Genoa-06009
Ira-06010
Jordan*-34021
King Ferry-06011

Montezuma-06015
Moravia-06014
New Hope-06016
Owasco-06017
Poplar Ridge-06018

Conquest-06029
Fair Haven-06006

Locke-06012
Long Hill-06026

Port Byron-06019
Red Creek*59016

Scipio-06020
Sempronius-06027
Sennett-06021
Throop-06022
Union
Springs06023
Victory-06024
Weedsport-06025
West Niles-06028

Should we change these to the NERIS ID
Jordan (Onondaga Co.) Red Creek (Wayne Co.)- Both have response areas in Cayuga
County.
List of Elected Officers:
All fire departments participating in the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan will have in
place and on file with the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator a complete list of their elected
officers and an identified chain of command for Continuity of Operations. Additionally, the
information must be updated annually, at the time of their election of officers.
Within 30 days of
election.
Extent and Limit of Participation with Adjacent Counties:
Mutual Aid is provided to and received from Cortland, Onondaga, Oswego, Seneca,
Tompkins and Wayne Counties through their respective County Fire Control Centers and
under the direction of their County Fire Coordinator or legally appointed Deputies.
Entering and Participating in the Plan:
Any duly established fire department may participate in this Plan if they so choose, by filing
a copy of resolution adopted by the fire department with the Fire Coordinator and the Office
of Emergency Services. Such a resolution shall state that the named fire department elects to
participate in the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan and will comply with the provisions
of this Plan. The resolution shall state that the fire department will respond to all calls for
assistance from any other fire department as requested through the Cayuga County E-911
Center.
There shall also be filed with the Fire Coordinator and the Office of Emergency Services a
copy of the resolution adopted by the Legislative Body of each participating City, Village,
Town, Board of Commissioners or other Governing Board having jurisdiction over the
participating fire department.

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Entering and Participating in the Plan(continued)
Such resolution shall state that no restrictions exist against “outside service” by the fire
department or municipality or district within the meaning of Section 209 of the General
Municipal Law which would affect the power of such fire department to participate in the
Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan and the Legislative Body and Governing Board of
each fire department recognizes and accepts their legal and financial responsibilities pursuant
to Section 209-(2)(3)(4) of the General Municipal Law.
Withdrawal from the Plan:
Any fire department or Governing Body may elect to withdraw from this Plan by adopting a
resolution to such effect. Such withdrawal shall become effective thirty (30) days after filing
a certified copy of said resolution with the Director of Emergency Services and the Cayuga
County Fire Coordinator. Such withdrawal shall remain in effect until reinstated by
resolution as defined in Section 209 of the General Municipal Law.
Withdrawal from this Plan will result in suspension of all Volunteer Firefighters Benefits Law
through Cayuga County as well as Mutual Aid and reciprocal Mutual Aid in accordance with
this Plan, which includes the services of the:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Cayuga County Fire Investigation Team
Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Response Team
Cayuga County Rehab Vehicle
Cayuga County Technical Rescue Teams/Equipment/Vehicles

Any fire department withdrawing from this Plan, upon an effective date, shall surrender and
return any and all Cayuga County owned equipment to the Office of Emergency Services
located at Present Office Location. All radio identifiers and call signs issued to such fire
department are cancelled and the use of any radio frequencies licensed by Cayuga County
will not be allowed.
Liability:
It shall be the responsibility of the fire department responding outside of their primary response
area to maintain appropriate insurance coverage as required by law. Each fire department must
insure their personnel and vehicle(s) regardless of their location, or the location of the incident.
The responding fire department shall be responsible for any negligent performance or failure to
perform as if such negligence occurred within the area regularly served and protected by such
responding fire department. However, notwithstanding the above, pursuant to Section 209-g of
the General Municipal Law, any loss or damage to equipment of the responding organization
sustained in answering a call for mutual aid shall be charged and paid by the fire department
requesting assistance.

8

Line of Authority: Cayuga County Legislature:
The Cayuga County Judicial & public Safety Committee of the Cayuga County Legislature is
the Governing Authority over the Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, and all
functions and activities thereof.
Absence of the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator – The Fire Coordinator shall designate in
writing and file in the Office of Emergency Services, and The Cayuga County Judicial &
Public Safety Committee the order in which Deputy Fire Coordinators are to possess the
powers and perform the duties of County Fire Coordinator during their absence or inability
to act pursuant to Section 401.2 of the New York State County Law.
Vacancy in the position of Cayuga County Fire Coordinator – The Director of The Office
of Emergency Services shall designate the Deputy County Fire Coordinator who shall
possess the powers and perform the duties of County Fire Coordinator until a successor
is appointed by the Cayuga County Legislature as recommended by the Cayuga County
Fire Advisory Board and is qualified pursuant to Section 401 of the County Law.
Maintenance of Individuality:
Each Fire Department participating in this Plan shall retain its own internal command
structure and individuality.
Authority of “Requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge:
A “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the local jurisdiction fire
department is the person who shall make all requests for Mutual Aid in accordance with
this Plan.
The “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the local jurisdiction fire
department requesting mutual aid will retain all on scene authority and Incident Command
functions at a fire or other emergency in which mutual aid services, equipment, firefighters,
and officers will be utilized.
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinators are authorized to respond to mutual aid incidents are
to act in an advisory capacity only, unless directed by the “requesting” Incident Commander
or Officer-in-Charge from the local jurisdiction fire department to fill in Command Staff,
General Staff, or other supervisory positions.
The “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the local fire department
requesting mutual aid shall attempt to utilize chiefs and senior officers of incoming mutual
aid fire departments, trained to the NIMS Incident Command System 200 level. To further fill
in Command Staff, General Staff, Branch Director, and Division/Group Supervisor positions
as requested or required and at their discretion to fill.

9

Authority of “Requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge: (Continued)
The “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the local fire department
requesting mutual aid shall have the authority to mobilize and demobilize apparatus,
manpower and equipment as he determines appropriate for the incident.
The “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the local fire department
requesting mutual aid for a fill in company shall make every effort to provide at least one
personnel from the local Fire Department to act as liaison to aid the stand-by company.
It is the obligation of the “requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge from the
local jurisdiction fire department requesting mutual aid for a fill in company, de-mobilize
units as soon as reasonable and possible so that the mutual aid stand-by company can return
to service, and to their local jurisdiction.
Request for Mutual Aid:
Each participating fire department may request assistance from any other fire department
pursuant to the provisions of this Plan. Requests shall take the following forms:
1. The request of an Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge of any fire or other
emergency in Cayuga County.
2. The pre-planned and/or automatic pre-planned response to any building, area, or
district agreed upon by all agencies involved and filed in writing with the Cayuga
County E-911 Center and the Office of Emergency Services. Should be filed with the Fire
Coordinator.
3. Whenever a fire department responds to an incident and determines it to be out of
their jurisdiction, they shall notify the Cayuga County E-911 Center of such, and
have the dispatcher notify the Fire Chief of that district.
Any and all requests for mutual aid shall be made through the Cayuga County E-911
Center. In all cases, the fire department receiving Mutual Aid will be the requestor of record.
Obligation to Respond:
Each participating Fire Department must respond to any call for assistance from any other
fire department made pursuant to the provisions of this Plan. Once a fire department
responds to a mutual aid call, that fire department equipment and manpower are
committed to the requesting fire department until released by the Incident Commander or
Officer-in-Charge of the requesting fire department.
Should there be a clause for repeated "no
response" of mutual aid requested?
Incident Command System:
All fire departments that are members of the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan, including
the officers and firefighting personnel of these member departments, shall adhere to the
Incident Command System.

10

Automatic Mutual Aid/Automatic Mutual Aid Preplans:
Fire Departments having Automatic Mutual Aid and Automatic Mutual Aid Preplans must
have them filed with the Cayuga County E-911 Center and with the Cayuga County Office of
Emergency Services.
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator Hierarchy:
Cayuga County Legislature

11

Extent and Limit of Authority of The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator:
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator, pursuant to the duties of County Law 225a, shall provide
assistance at the County levels for the fire service:
1. In Coordination with NYS OFPC, administers the New York State Fire Outreach Training
Program and any and all training programs developed by the State or by the Cayuga County
Fire Coordinator throughout the County.
2. Administers the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan and is responsible for the efficient
operation of the Plan for intra- and intercompany purposes at fires or where the services of
firefighters are used.
3. Acts as the liaison officer between the fire service of Cayuga County and the New York
State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.
Authority and Responsibility of the Regional Fire Administrator:
The authority and responsibility of the Regional Fire Administrator under the activated State
Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan is established by the New York State Office of Fire
Prevention and Control.
Procedure to obtain activation of NYS Fire Mobilization plan:
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator or any Cayuga County Deputy Fire Coordinator in the
line of authority designated pursuant to Section 401 of the County Law, after utilizing all
available assistance from Cortland, Onondaga, Oswego, Seneca, Tompkins and Wayne
Counties may call the Office of Fire Prevention and Control to obtain activation of the NYS
State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan. The County Fire Coordinator, upon activation of
the NYS Fire Mobilization Plan, organizes local resources and advises the New York State
Office of Fire Prevention and Control on utilization of those resources.
Retirement provisions relating to the position of Regional Fire Administrator:
Should the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator be separated from his/her office for any reason,
he/she is automatically retired as Regional Fire Administrator. Only the State Fire
Administrator of the Office of Fire Prevention and Control is authorized by law to appoint a
Regional Fire Administrator pursuant to GML 209-e.
County Number:
The County number (06) issued under the State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan shall
be utilized on all reports and correspondence from Fire Departments and/or the Office of
Emergency Services to the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control.

12

Concept of Operations:
Local fire departments are comprised of organized, trained volunteer personnel
serving in specific geographical areas known as the Village’s, Town’s and/or Fire
Districts in Cayuga County. It may also include specialty functions such as fire
brigade or emergency squads.
When the need for mutual assistance in time of disaster, fire, or other emergency,
where the services of firefighters, rescue personnel, and/or equipment would be
used, the Villages, Towns, Fire Districts and Fire Departments of Cayuga County
have pledged their firefighting equipment, rescue equipment, facilities, and
personnel. These Villages, Towns, Fire Districts and Fire Departments of Cayuga
County recognize that they have a contractual obligation to comply with this Plan,
as now in force and as amended in the public interest as outlined here-in.
All incidents and/or disasters (natural, manmade, fire, rescue, and hazardous
materials) remain the responsibility of the local jurisdiction, unless a legal
Delegation of Authority is in place.
Local fire agencies will respond to and resolve their local incidents until the Officerin- Charge determines that they are unable to respond, or their agency is depleted, or
they are unable to respond at all.
In the absence of response, which for the purpose of this plan is failure to
acknowledge the call and/or failure to be adequately staffed per an accepted standard
and responding (on the road) within five minutes, shall result in a second activation
and mutual aid automatically being dispatched by the Cayuga County E- 911 Center.
Once determined to be unable to respond and/or inadequately staffed, an officer of the
primary fire department shall immediately request the Cayuga County E-911 Center
to dispatch appropriate mutual aid companies.
If and/or when normal day-to-day operational agreements between two local
jurisdictions are exceeded, or when an Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge
requests so, the incident may be expanded beyond normal operations.
Under normal circumstances, the Incident Commander or Officer-In-Charge of the
local jurisdiction will retain command and control and coordinate the ongoing
activities for that incident using the National Incident Management System (NIMS).
Cayuga County assets will assume a subordinate role, in the NIMS structure, and/or
act in an advisory capacity only.
At such a time as the Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge, the Cayuga County
Fire Coordinator and Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services Official,
determine that additional resources and/or the further escalation of an incident is
necessary and appropriate, the Cayuga County Emergency Operations Center
(EOC) may be opened to support the incident.

13

Concept of Operations: (continued)
Additional command and general staff positions may be ordered to fill in
accordance with the National Incident Management System. The Cayuga
County Fire Coordinator and/or their designee will be in continuous consult
with appropriate New York State partners (Office of Emergency
Management, Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Department of Health,
etc.), which may be called upon for assistance.
Additional assets will be mobilized according to additional mutual-aid
agreements and the New York State Fire Mobilization and Mutual-Aid Plan.
Once determined appropriate by the Chief Elected Official (Village Mayor,
Town Supervisor, County Legislator Chair), in a coordinated effort with the
Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge, the Cayuga County Office of
Emergency Services and the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator or their
designee, a State of Emergency may be declared, and necessary Emergency
Orders may be issued in accordance with Article 2B of Executive Law.
If and/or when a State of Emergency is declared, all appropriate New York
State agencies from which assistance may be required will be notified, as
per the Cayuga County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.
Cayuga County Radio Frequencies:

I'm not sure this reads correctly

These next frequencies are not assigned to any specific channel. (TAC
CHANNELS) Channels key up, then the radio system chooses frequency
based on availability.
Repeater Tx
Mobile & Portable
Rx

Repeater Rx
Mobile & Portable Tx

460.1750

465.1750

460.2500

465.2500

460.3500

465.3500

460.4000

465.4000

460.4125

465.4125

460.4500

465.4500

460.4750

465.4750

Talk Around Channels: 453.91250, 453.9350, 453.98750

14

Inventory of Fire Apparatus:
Location of County Inventory of Fire Apparatus Records shall be located as follows:
1. Cayuga County Fire Coordinator
2. Cayuga County E-911 Center
3. Each Cayuga County Deputy Fire Coordinator
4. Each participating Fire Chief
5. Each contiguous County Fire Coordinator
6. Annexed to this plan
A copy of said inventory of fire apparatus shall be forwarded to the New York State
Office of Fire Prevention & Control. The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator or designee
shall be responsible for maintaining inventory records.
The Chief of each Fire Company or Department participating in this Plan shall
submit changes in inventory of the company or department immediately to the
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator or designee. The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator
or designee shall make and submit such corrections to each inventory location and
to New York State Office of Fire Prevention & Control within 30 days of the receipt
of such changes. Inventory changes shall be consistent with current FEMA
guidelines.
This inventory shall be reviewed annually at the same time that this plan is reviewed
by the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator or designee. All participating department’s
inventories are appendixes in this Plan.
Fire Reporting:
In accordance General Municipal Law Section 204 d, each Fire Chief or their
designee of a fire company or fire department participating in this Plan shall report all
incidences on National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) to the
NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control. This needs to change. Eliminate the part about
OFPC. All reporting after 1/1/2026 goes
Training & Education:
directly to the Feds.
All fire departments participating in the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan shall
ensure that individuals attend training commensurate with their duties and
demonstrate proficiency on an annual basis. Each department will be individually
charged with and be responsible for maintaining training records for their active
personnel.
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator, Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services
and the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control will coordinate to make
New York State Fire Training available to the fire department’s active personnel

15

consistent with the Recommended Best Practices for Fire Department Training
Programs.
Standard Thread:
All apparatus and its associated equipment participating in this Plan shall be
equipped with National Standard Thread (NST), with the exception of Large
Diameter Hose, as defined by the National Bureau of Standards, or provide
sufficient adapters to permit interconnection with National Standard Thread
prescribed in GML 209e.
Large Diameter Hose:
Participants using large diameter hose shall standardize to the quarter turn sexless
style of couplings and manifolds.
Accountability:
When responding to all calls within the County, all firefighters are to use a three-tag
(colored) accountability system. 1- Yellow FDID Tag, 2-Red for Interior, BlueMedical, Black-Special Ops, Green-CISM. The tags will contain, at least, the
following information:
1. Firefighter's name.
2. Firefighter's qualification, interior/exterior
3. Company or department to which the firefighter belongs.
Additional Participation Requirements:
Annual National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Service Tests should be
conducted by the participants of the Plan. These tests include but are not limited to the
following:
1. Apparatus Pump testing per NFPA 1911
2. Third party SCBA service testing per NFPA 1404, 1500 and 1582, as well
as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR part
1910.134
3. Ground ladder testing per NFPA 1932
4. Hose testing per NFPA 1962
5. Nozzle testing per NFPA 1962 and Manufacturers specifications
6. Respiratory Protection Plan in place per 29 CFR 1910.134 serving as
a minimum standard that all fire departments shall meet.

16

Cayuga County Fire Investigation Unit:
The Fire Investigation Unit, a function of the Cayuga County Office of Emergency
Services, will include a cooperative regional effort on the part of all Cayuga County
Fire Departments, Law Enforcement Agencies, and the Cayuga County District
Attorney’s Office.
When requested by an Incident Commander or Officer in Charge, the Cayuga
County Fire Investigation Unit will respond and assist the Fire Chief or their designee
in determining cause and origin.
General Municipal Law Section 204-D identifies the duty of the Fire Chief to
determine an origin and cause, or to have determined the origin and cause of any fire
or explosion that the Department has been called to suppress. General Municipal
Law Section 204-c mandates Cayuga County’s responsibility to have a plan for
arson investigation, and such the Fire Investigation Unit fulfills this mandate.
Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Unit:

Add Cayuga County Fire Coordinator
The Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services, the City of Auburn Fire
Department, Local Responders, and the New York State Office of Homeland
Security collaborate to provide a Regional, organized, coordinated, cooperative
comprehensive approach to dealing with incidents involving substances, which by
their nature are likely to cause death or injury to the responding Public Safety
Agencies and the General Public.

General Municipal Law Section 204-f mandates that each County in New York State
maintain a Hazardous Materials Response Plan or Annex, to enact when required by
an actual or potential Hazardous Materials Incident. Cayuga County maintains such a
plan, which is an Annex to the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.
Any Incident Commander or Officer in Charge of a Fire Department participating in
the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan, operating at an actual or potential
Hazardous Materials Incident shall have the authority to request the Hazardous
Materials Unit to respond. Upon request, the Director of Emergency Services and the
Hazardous Materials Coordinator (County Car 9) will be notified of the response.
Add Fire Coordinator
The Regional Hazardous Materials Consortium is a Type II Hazardous Materials
team that consists of the:
1. Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Team
2. Cortland County Hazardous Materials Team
3. Tompkins County Hazardous Materials Team

17

As with other mutual aid outlined in this Plan, Liability, Line of Authority and
Authority of “Requesting” Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge remain
consistent with this Plan concerning the Regional Hazardous Materials Consortium
activation.
Cayuga County Technical Rescue Plan:
The Incident Commander or Officer-In-Charge shall have the authority to request a
Technical Rescue Team to respond. Upon request, the Cayuga County Fire
Coordinator will be notified of the request.
Cayuga County Emergency Services Units:
When requested by an Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge, The Cayuga
County Emergency Services Units will respond and assist.
These units consist of Cayuga County REHAB, Cayuga County Rescue 1, Car 1,
Car 2 and Cayuga County Search and Rescue w/UTV, Tech Rescue Trailers.
Engine and boat
REHAB – Rehabilitation of firefighters and personnel on scene
County Rescue 1 – Trench, collapse, tools, cascade can also be utilized for a
Command Post.
Car 1, Car 2 – Can be utilized for Command Post, will also assist Incident
Command.
Cayuga County Search and Rescue – Assist with Search and Rescue efforts. Cayuga
County UTV is also available.
Tech Rescue Trailers – Assist with High/Low angle rope rescue operations, Collapse,
Trench rescue operations.
Use and Abuse of Mutual Aid:
Mutual Aid is organized, supervised, coordinated, cooperative, reciprocal assistance
in which personnel, equipment, and physical facilities of fire departments,
regardless of type or size, are utilized for a fire or other emergency in which the
services of firefighters would be used throughout Cayuga and contiguous counties.
This Plan is designed to recognize that every fire department may not own sufficient
type and kind of equipment for all emergency situations. Therefore, Mutual Aid is
used to bring specialized equipment and personnel to those incidents or where
equipment and manpower have been depleted or are unavailable. The important
aspect of Mutual Aid is that it is a reciprocal agreement between fire departments,
that is, it shall be given as well as received.

18

Use and Abuse of Mutual Aid: (continued)
Under the Mutual Aid Plan, a fire department is obligated to respond to any call for
assistance from any other participating fire department. Temporary situations may
exist in which a fire department is not expected to respond to a mutual aid call. An
example of a temporary situation may be when equipment is out of service such as
with maintenance or repairs, or when a department is operating at its own
emergency, etc. Additionally, a fire department may restrict its outside activities,
provided notice is given to the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator outlining those
restrictions. (i.e. special equipment that cannot leave the jurisdiction, equipment that
ordinary structural fire equipment could not fill in for, equipment not adaptable for
highway or distance limitations, etc.)
Automatic responses are used as a part of Mutual Aid to bring additional equipment to
target hazards, for example, covering equipment out of service or to cover areas
when roads or bridges are closed. An automatic response is considered above and
beyond the intent of Mutual Aid. When an automatic response is initiated, all parties
involved in the automatic response must agree to it. In addition, if the automatic
response is to extend beyond 30 days, the request must be filed in writing with the
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator and signed by the Chiefs of all the departments
involved. Mutual Aid and/or automatic responses are not intended to cover a
jurisdiction’s discretionary reduction in personnel or equipment. In all cases where
Mutual Aid or an automatic response is requested, the jurisdiction requesting
assistance is financially responsible for the loss or damage of all equipment
responding to, operating at or returning from a Mutual Aid call, including stand-bys.
In addition, this responsibility also extends to the replacement of any expendable
items such as foam, firefighting chemicals, etc.
In instances where the use of Mutual Aid or automatic responses becomes excessive
or abusive there are ways to overcome the burden. If a department experiences
difficulty in participating in this Plan, whether it is in supplying mutual aid or
receiving it, that department shall immediately report that difficulty to the Cayuga
County Fire Coordinator for review and additional assistance available.
It must be understood that the intent of Mutual Aid is to provide needed manpower and
equipment during those instances where a fire department has allocated and
expended all local resources and additional assistance is needed to cope with a
situation. Mutual Aid should not become routine unless it is by mutual agreement
between the parties involved and the assistance is reciprocal.

19

APPENDIX A-1
Resolution by Village/Town/Fire District:
Resolution by Municipality or Fire District Having Jurisdiction,
offered the
following resolution and moved for its adoption:
(Name of person sponsoring the resolution)
Resolved that
(Authority Having Jurisdiction)

Approves continued participation by the
(Name of Fire Company/Fire Department)
In the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan as now in effect and as amended from time to time and
certifies to the Cayuga County Legislature through it’s Fire Coordinator that no restrictions exist
against “outside services” by such fire company and/or fire department within the meaning of Section
209 of the General Municipal Law which would affect the power of such fire company/fire department
to participate in such plan.
And it be further resolved that a copy of this resolution be filed with the Cayuga County Fire
Coordinator.
seconded this resolution.
(Name of person seconding resolution)

Voted: In Favor

Opposed

Abstained

(Date)

(Singed)

(Title
)
Note:
For the Villages – The Board of Fire Commissioners; if any should adopt the resolution; if there is not a Board of
Fire Commissioners, then the resolution should be signed by the full Village Board.
For the Fire Districts – The Board of Fire Commissioners should adopt the resolution.
For the Towns – The Town Board should adopt the resolution when the fire department has their headquarters outside
Villages and/or Fire Districts are located in Fire Protection or Fire Alarm Districts.

20

APPENDIX A-2
Resolution by Fire Department and/or Fire Company:
offered the following resolution and moved for its adoption:
(Name of person sponsoring the resolution)

Resolved that
(Name of Fire Company and/or Fire Department)

Approves continued participation in the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan as now in effect and as
amended from time to time and will abide by its requirements.
And be it further that a copy of this resolution be filed with the Cayuga County Fire Coordinator.
seconded this resolution.
(Name of person seconding this resolution)

Voted: In Favor

Opposed

Abstained

(Date)

(Singed)

(Title)

21

APPENDIX B
Cayuga County ARSON CONTROL PLAN
Be it resolved that all fires occurring in Cayuga County shall be properly
investigated as to the cause and origin by the Fire Chief or his designee
having jurisdiction where the said fire has occurred in accordance with the
duties of a Fire Chief as described in General Municipal Law 204-D and
reads as follows:
DUTIES OF THE
FIRE CHIEF
“The Fire Chief of any Fire Department or Company shall, in addition
to any other duties assigned to him by law or contract, to the extent
reasonably possible determine or cause to be determined the cause of
each fire or explosion which the Fire Department or Company has
been called to suppress. He shall contact or cause to be contacted the
appropriate investigatory authority if he has reason to believe the fire or
explosion is of incendiary or suspicious origin.”
When the Fire Chief or his designee in whose jurisdiction a said fire or explosion
or threat of fire peril has occurred and has been unable to determine the cause of
said incident or has determined the cause to be of incendiary or suspicious
origin, shall pursuant to Sec. 204-D General Municipal Law request assistance
from the appropriate investigatory authority. The authority shall be the Cayuga
County Fire Coordinator. Other such resources as may be required from the
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator shall be supplied pursuant to the Cayuga
County Fire Mutual Aid Plan.
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator shall upon receipt of a request from any
Fire Department or Company having jurisdiction within Cayuga County for
assistance in determining the cause and origin of any fire or explosion shall
assign a qualified Fire Investigator to assist the said Fire Department in
conducting an investigation as to the cause and circumstances surrounding said
fire or explosion. The Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services may also
be assigned to assist any law enforcement agency or the Cayuga County
District Attorney’s Office when so requested. The Cayuga County Fire
Coordinator shall also investigate all fires occurring on property owned, leased,

22

or under the control of the County of Cayuga. If the Fire Department having
jurisdiction where said fire investigation is taking place is not aware of the
ongoing investigation it shall be notified of the investigation as soon as possible
in all cases except where confidentiality is critical to the investigation.

If in the opinion of the Fire Investigator assigned, the cause of the fire
appears to be of an incendiary nature and/or a crime may have been
committed an Arson Task Force may be created to further the
investigation. Such Arson Task Force shall be designed to meet the
needs of each and every individual arson incident. Under the guidance
and counsel of the Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office the
following agencies and individuals may be included or excluded in the
Arson Task Force as the particular case warrants:
1.
Fire Investigators – Cayuga County Fire Coordinator
2.
Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office
3.
Cayuga County Sheriff’s Department
4.
New York State Police
5.
New York State Police Laboratory
6.
Jurisdictional Fire Chief
7.
Jurisdictional Law Enforcement Agency
8.
Insurance Company Representative
Other State and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
9.
The above list of Arson Task Force members shall in no way be
considered to be complete or restrictive.
The Cayuga County District Attorney’s Office shall be notified of the
circumstances of the case as soon as possible. The District Attorney’s
Office shall be responsible for the prosecution of all matters arising
under the laws of fire, explosions, extinguishment thereof, and fire
perils. The District Attorney’s Office may periodically create policy, set
standards, make recommendations for conducting investigations of fires
and explosions.
All Fire Investigators’ conduct, policies and procedures shall comply
with the most up to date Fire Investigation NFPA Standards #1033 and
#921. Adequate records shall be maintained of all fires investigated and
circumstances surrounding the investigation. Whenever possible a copy
of the Fire Investigation Report shall be forwarded to the Fire Chief in
whose jurisdiction the said fire occurred as soon as possible. If because
of confidentiality the report cannot be released, a special Supplementary
Report shall be prepared for the Fire Chief concerning the details of the
investigation that may be released.

23

CAYUGA COUNTY ARSON CONTROL PLAN (continued)
Primary responsibility for Fire Cause and Origin Determination will be that of the
local Fire Departments in Cayuga County. Each Fire Department or Company
shall be encouraged to participate in Fire/Arson Awareness training programs as
offered by the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency
Services Office of Fire Prevention and Control, Cayuga County Fire Coordinator
and any other related training programs or resources that may be available.

24

Appendix-C
CITY OF AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT Appendix-C
SUGGESTED OPERATING GUIDELINE
# 2005Cayuga SUBJECT:
County/City
of Auburn
Fire Department
Suggested S.O.G
Operating
Guideline
HAZARDOUS
MATERIALS
RESPONSE TEAM
CATEGORY: SPECIAL OPERATIONS

PAGE 1 of 126
EFFECTIVE DATE: 01/01/2005
UPDATED: 10/25/2019

CREATED BY: LT. MENDILLO, FF ROTKO
UPDATED BY:A/C MENDILLO, CAPTAIN SHERMAN, LT CLARK, FF ROTKO, FF
PYSNACK, FF BURNS
APPROVED BY: CHIEF MORABITO
ATTACHMENTS: APPENDIX 1-6
REFERENCES: NFPA 472, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 HAZWOPER

SECTION 1

SCOPE: This procedure applies to all members of the Auburn Fire Department that are
responsible for response to hazardous materials incidents.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this procedure is to identify considerations and provide
guidelines for conducting hazardous materials operations. The Auburn Fire Department /
Cayuga County Hazardous Materials Response Team, also known as the HMRT, was
established in January of 2005 for the purpose of, mitigating emergencies involving
hazardous materials, primarily within the City of Auburn and County of Cayuga that pose
a threat to the public and/or the environment. The HMRT limits it activities to those that
prevent or reduce an incidents direct impact on critical receptors.

It is not within the HMRT’s mission to provide environmental cleanup services nor to
return an incident site to its “pre-incident” condition except where such actions are
necessary in order to prevent or reduce the incidents impact on critical receptors and so
doing is within the capabilities of the HMRT.
The HMRT is a ‘Joint” function between the City of Auburn Fire Department and
Cayuga County, with direction and control of the HMRT falling under an Assistant Chief
of the Auburn Fire Department and his/her appointees.
The HMRT’s purpose and function at a hazardous materials incident is dictated by the
joint cooperative effort of the Auburn Fire Department on duty Chief and the Special
Operations Assistant Chief and/or their designee.

25

Unless specifically directed otherwise, the objectives and actions of the HMRT shall not
be dictated by any party outside the jurisdiction of the Auburn Fire Department / Cayuga
County HMRT. Instances outside the City of Auburn, when mutual aid is requested, the
HMRT OIC will cooperatively work at a unified command post, with the jurisdictional
OIC to the extent necessary to achieve the objectives of the HMRT. All such actions and

interactions will be done in compliance with the National Incident Management System and the
National Response Plan.

Although the HMRT’s mission is limited to preventing or reducing an incidents impact on critical
receptors, the HMRT is aware of the high financial and social costs associated with a hazardous
materials incident. As such, although the protection of life and property is the primary objective,
the HMRT will make every reasonable effort to reduce an incidents financial and social impact
including, but not limited to, reducing the impact on transportation systems, reducing the impact
on public services, and reducing the impact on commerce and daily business.

26

SECTION 2
PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES WITHIN THE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
SECTOR
Deployment of personnel within the Hazardous Materials Sector shall be the responsibility of the
senior or ranking Officer within the HMRT. Although most personnel are trained and certified to
the Technician Level, it is recognized that for numerous reasons personnel within the HMRT will
have varying levels of training, experience, and areas of expertise. Therefore, assignment of
personnel to specific roles within the response system shall be made on an incident specific basis
with consideration given to the variance in personnel as well as the type, magnitude, and risk
posed by the incident. To ensure continuity, the HMRT shall make every effort to afford all
personnel an opportunity to perform in all facets of the response system. However, the safety of
personnel and the proficiency of the HMRT is the primary concern when assigning operational
roles. On those incidents deemed to present a high degree of risk to both emergency responders
and the general public, the HMRT shall assign its personnel to operational positions in the
MOST advantageous manner for the circumstances presented. “Job description” back packs are
provided for each of the following functions to assist with the responsibilities of each position.
HAZMAT OPERATIONS OFFICER:
The senior officer assigned to the HMRT shall generally assume the role of the Hazmat
Operations (HMO). The senior officer may, at his or her discretion, assign a different officer to
the role of the HMO in the case of rank differential; the ranking officer assigned to the HMRT
shall typically assume the role of the HMO, provided the ranking officer is certified to the
Technician Level as a minimum.
Assign personnel to the following positions:
HAZMAT Safety Officer (HMSO)
Entry Team Officer (ETO) (may act as 1 of the 2 personnel on the entry team)
Entry Team (ET)
Back up Team (BT)
Resource Information Officer (RIO)
Decontamination Officer (DO)
Scribe (assists the HMO, typically with documentation)
The HMO must be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. The duties and
responsibilities of the HMO at a Hazardous Materials Incident are:
1.

The HMO is responsible for the direction and supervision of the HMRT.

27

2.

The HMO is responsible for all actions and decisions of the HMRT.

3.

The HMO is responsible for determining the identification of the hazardous
material to the fullest extent possible.

4.

The HMO is responsible for performing a hazard/risk assessment of the incident.

5.

The HMO is responsible for development of the action plan.

6.

The HMO is responsible for termination policy development and implementation.

7.

The HMO is responsible for providing detailed incident briefing and updates to
the Operations Officer (if applicable) and/or Incident Commander.

8.

The HMO is responsible for obtaining approval of all offensive actions from the
Operations Officer and/or Incident Commander prior to initiating offensive
mitigation actions.

9.

The HMO is responsible for ensuring all personnel are properly briefed and a Site
Safety Plan is in place prior to initiating offensive mitigation actions.

10.

The HMO is responsible for coordinating all Fire Department units operating with
the HMRT in a support capacity.

11.

The HMO is responsible for coordinating the actions of the HMRT with outside
resources and/or agencies as necessary.

12.

The HMO is responsible for ensuring HMRT compliance with applicable laws
and regulations.

13.

The HMO is responsible for ensuring proper incident documentation. NIMS
forms 201, 208 and Auburn Fire Department HAZMAT Team site safety plan.

14.

The HMO is responsible for conducting a post-incident critique of the HMRT'S
response and actions.

HAZMAT SAFETY OFFICER:
An officer assigned to the HMRT shall generally assume the role of the Hazmat Safety Officer
(HMSO). In the case of rank differential, the subordinate officer assigned to the HMRT shall
assume the role of the HMSO provided he or she is certified to the Technician Level as a
minimum. In the case of a firefighter in charge (FFIC) assuming the role of an officer assigned to
the HMRT, the FFIC may assume the role of the HMSO.
The HMSO must be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. It is recommended the
HMSO hold an officers rank. However, in the absence of a Technician certified officer, a
firefighter with Technician certification can serve as the HMSO. The duties and responsibilities
of the HMSO at a Hazardous Materials Incident are:

28

1.
The HMSO is responsible for establishing incident control zones, including Hot
Zone, Warm Zone, Cold Zone and Decontamination Zone as necessary.
2.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring all personnel entering the hot zone are
certified to the Technician Level as a minimum and are properly equipped with
appropriate PPE prior to entry.

3.

The HSMO is responsible for ensuring the Backup Team, Decontamination
Personnel, and all members operating within the Hazmat Sector are properly
equipped with appropriate PPE.

4.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring the operational readiness of the Backup
Team during all Hot Zone entries.

5.

The HMSO is responsible for development, documentation, and implementation
of a Site Safety Plan.

6.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring proper on-site decontamination.

7.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring the confinement of all contamination
within the Hot Zone.

8.

The HMSO is responsible for reviewing the operational plan developed by the
HMO for safety considerations.

9.

The HMSO is responsible for documenting and controlling pertinent safety data
for personnel operating within the Hot Zone. This may include, but is not limited
to; time within Hot Zone, time on air, dosimeter readings, etc……..

10.

The HMSO is responsible for coordinating the Medical Support Units with the
HMRT.

11.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring the safe coordination of outside agencies
and personnel with the HMRT

12.

The HMSO is responsible for ensuring the safe coordination of all Fire
Department units operating with the HMRT in a support capacity.

13.

The HMSO is responsible for coordinating as necessary with the Incident Safety
Officer.

14.

The HMSO is responsible for monitoring “on air” time.

15.
Ensure that the back-up team is 90% ready and a second back up team is
established in event of the initial back up team is activated.

29

ENTRY TEAM / OFFICER:
The Hazmat Entry Team (ET) shall consist of two HMRT members. Generally there need be only
a single ET. However, incidents requiring extended operations and/or multiple Hot Zone entries
may dictate the need for multiple ET’s. In either case, ET responsibilities shall remain the same.
ET Officer (if applicable) shall:
Assure 2 qualified personnel are designated the ET
Assure a medical team has assessed and recorded the mandated vital signs
Attempt to secure 2 personnel to assist with donning of equipment
Assure the ET has all pertinent information regarding their mission
Assure the ET does not attempt entry without the BT being 90% ready
Assure monitoring is reported back to the HMO on a regular basis. Report any pertinent findings
i.e.: victims, gas or liquid (color and amounts), unknown hazards (electrical, temperature).
Assure the ET reports to medical after decontamination.
Both ET members shall be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. The duties and
responsibilities of the ET at a Hazardous Materials Incident are:
1.

The ET is responsible for all entries into the Hot Zone for reconnaissance and/or
control purposes.

2.

The ET is responsible for implementation of that portion of the control plan
requiring entry into the Hot Zone.

3.

The ET is responsible for communicating pertinent information from within the
Hot Zone to the HMO

30

4.

The ET is responsible for briefing the HMO as to the conditions, actions, and
outcome following entry into the Hot Zone.

BACK-UP TEAM:
The Hazmat Backup Team (BT) shall consist of two HMRT members. There need be only a
single BT regardless of the number of Hot Zone entries. However, incidents requiring multiple
Hot Zone entries may dictate the need for the BT to become an ET. In such cases, a second BT
must be assembled. Under no circumstances shall an entry into a Hot Zone be made by the
HMRT without a BT on standby.
Additionally, should the BT be required to enter the Hot Zone to assist the ET or to execute a
rescue, a second BT shall be immediately assembled and placed on standby.
To fully utilize the BT, members shall be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. If
personnel without Technician certification must be utilized for the BT, the BT may only be
utilized for rescue of the ET and shall not enter the Hot Zone for any reason. The BT duties are:
1.

The BT is responsible to maintain themselves in a ready state should they be
needed during any Hot Zone entry.

2.

The BT is responsible for ET assistance or rescue as dictated by the HMO

3.

The BT is responsible to observe and monitor ET operations in preparations for
ET relief should the HMO dictate the BT become an ET.

RESOURCE INFORMATION OFFICER:
A member of the HMRT shall be assigned to the role of Resource Information Officer. The
Resource Information Officer (RIO) shall serve in such capacity throughout the duration of the
HMRT operations unless directed otherwise by the HMO.

31

In those operations requiring the need for an additional Backup Team, the RIO may be required
to serve as a member of the second Backup Team. Such role change shall be at the discretion of
the HMO and shall only occur if the RIO is certified to the Technician Level as a minimum.
It is recommended the RIO be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. However,
Technician Level certification is not required to serve in the capacity of the HMRT RIO. The
duties and responsibilities of the RIO at a Hazardous Materials Incident are:
1.

The RIO is responsible for performing or coordinating the referencing of all
applicable texts and databases as required to ascertain all pertinent information in
relation to the incident and the HMRT operation.

2.

The RIO is responsible for documenting all referenced information and providing
that information to the HMO and the HMSO as necessary.

3.

The RIO is responsible for contacting outside agencies and/or assistance via
telephone as required and/or directed by the HMO or HMSO. This may include,
but is not limited to, CHEMTREC, DEC, shippers, manufacturers, etc.

4.

The RIO may be responsible for developing Air Modeling utilizing the ALOHA
program as necessary.

5.

The RIO is responsible for continuous information gathering and data processing
throughout the duration of HMRT operations.

6.

The RIO may assist in coordinating or performing equipment and instrument
preparation during Hot Zone entry.

DECONTAMINATION OFFICER:
A member of the HMRT shall be assigned to the role of Decontamination Officer. The
Decontamination Officer (DO) shall serve in such capacity throughout the duration of the HMRT
operations unless directed otherwise by the HMO.
In those operations requiring the need for an additional Backup Team, the DO may be required to
serve as a member of the second Backup Team. Such role change shall be at the discretion of the
HMO and shall only occur if the DO is certified to the Technician Level as a minimum.
It is recommended the DO be certified to the Technician Level as a minimum. However,

32

Technician Level certification is not required to serve in the capacity of the HMRT DO. The
duties and responsibilities of the DO at a Hazardous Materials Incident are:
1.

The DO is responsible for directing and assisting in the locating and deployment
of the decontamination equipment and apparatus. The location and method of
personnel and equipment decontamination shall be determined by the HMSO.

2.

The DO is responsible for coordinating and assisting the decontamination support
company in both personnel and equipment decontamination.

3.

The DO is responsible for ensuring the proper containment, packaging, and/or
disposal of all decontaminated and/or disposable equipment and materials as well
as non-decontaminated equipment and/or decontamination runoff.

SECTION 3
INITIAL SITE OPERATIONS
HMRT ARRIVAL
Upon arrival of the HMRT, the first responding unit(s) shall brief the HMO as to the current status
of the incident and as to what, if any, actions have been taken prior to the HMRT’s arrival. The
HMO shall assume command of the incident pending arrival of a chief officer. Upon arrival of a
chief officer, the HMO shall brief the chief officer as to the incidents current status and relinquish
incident command (IC). The HMO shall, as soon as possible, provide the IC with a Hazard/Risk
Assessment and inform the IC of HMRT intervention options and actions. It shall be the decision
of the IC as to the course of HMRT intervention.
SITE SECURITY
Immediately upon arrival; the HMRT shall assess the current incident status and Exclusion Zone
(if any) established by the first response unit(s) for adequacy in ensuring site security. The
establishment of initial site security shall be the first priority of the HMRT
Site security is defined as the establishment and enforcement of an Exclusion Zone to prevent the
contamination and/or injury of both civilian and emergency response personnel. The establishment
of an Exclusion Zone also dictates that all unprotected civilians and/or emergency response
personnel within the Exclusion Zone prior to, or at the time of, its establishment shall be isolated.
HMRT personnel shall determine the need for decontamination of these individuals prior to their
being released. If conditions warrant, these individuals may require medical

33

treatment/examination.
The HMRT shall base the initial Exclusion Zone on information immediately available. This
information may include, but is not limited to;
*

Product Identification
-

Documentation

- Witnesses
-

Markings

- Location
- Container
- Appearance
*

Weather
- Wind
- Temperature
-

*

Precipitation

Quantity

- Total Quantity

*

-

Current Release Status

-

Potential Release Status

Stability
-

Stress

- Type of Product
-

State of Contents

-

Other Product Involvement

The HMRT shall consider both current and potential chemical contamination as well as potential
physical dangers (i.e. fire, explosion, projectiles, etc.) When establishing the Exclusion Zone.
The enforcement of the Exclusion Zone, although the ultimate responsibility of the HMSO, shall
be a priority of all HMRT members until such time as the incident scene stabilizes and develops
adequately to allow for the establishment and enforcement of control zones by support personnel

34

and support agencies under the direct coordination of the HMSO. Strict enforcement of the
Exclusion Zone shall be a high priority of the HMRT.
CONFINEMENT
The HMRT’s second priority upon arrival shall be the confinement of any released material.
Confinement is defined as confining a chemical release to a limited area. The confinement of a
release is of extreme importance in limiting an incidents impact on critical receptors within the
urban environment in which the HMRT operates. Of notable priority is the prevention of chemical
runoff into sewers and storm drains as well as vapor movement. When applicable, the HMRT shall
make every effort to maintain control and/or accountability of all released material immediately
upon arrival and throughout the duration of the incident. Control and/or accountability of released
material may be accomplished through;
*

Covering of sewers, drains, etc.

*

Redirecting of runoff

*

Diking, Damming

*

Construction of retention areas

*

Mechanical control of gasses and or vapor
- Fans
-

Fog streams

- Containment within structure
*

Absorption

*

Blanketing

Confinement operations that do not involve specialized chemical protective equipment nor
involve entry into the Exclusion or Hot zone, can be performed by support personnel operating
under the direction of the HMO.
Confinement operations may continue throughout the duration of the incident under the direction
of the HMO. Offensive mitigation efforts do not preclude the commencement nor continuation of
product control and accountability operations.
INFORMATION/DATA GATHERING
Information and data gathering by the HMRT begins immediately upon arrival and continues
throughout the incidents duration. The RIO is responsible for coordinating all data gathering and
documentation required. However, additional HMRT personnel may be initially assigned to
assist the RIO until sufficient information is obtained and analyzed.
The RIO is also charged with the responsibility for identifying the product(s) involved to the

35

extent possible and for performing a hazard/risk assessment. All attempts shall be made to
identify the product(s) involved prior to the HMRT's entry into the Hot Zone. (See Section XIV,
Identifying Unknowns) The RIO shall begin the process of information and data gathering by
confirming the identity of the product(s) involved. A products identity shall not be considered
accurate unless information from at least one reliable source is obtained. Every effort shall be
made to confirm the identification from at least one additional information source. The following
information sources shall be considered as reliable;
* Shipping papers
* Expert witnesses
Driver
Spiller
Facility Management
* Labels (unless conditions indicate a reused container)
* Dedicated rail car stencils/markings
* Dedicated tank truck stencils/markings
* Dedicated fixed tank stencils/markings
Unreliable or non-specific information sources, such as placards, containers, non-expert
witnesses, senses, etc. shall not be used as the sole means for positively identifying a product, but
may be used to confirm a reliable information source.
When interrogating witnesses as to a products identification and/or hazards, HMRT members
shall question individuals thoroughly so as to ascertain their level of familiarity with, and
expertise concerning, the involved product(s). If the HMRT member questioning the individual is
not convinced as to the witness’s familiarity and/or expertise with the involved product(s), the
information shall be considered unreliable.
Following product identification, the RIO shall be responsible for providing the HMO and the
HMSO with either a material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the involved product(s) or a
completed HMRT Material Data Sheet (MDS) The RIO shall make every effort to obtain product
information from a minimum of three (3) reference sources to complete the MDS. Major
discrepancies in information or data shall be thoroughly investigated and cross referenced as
necessary. Any major discrepancies that cannot be accounted for shall be brought to the attention
of the HMO.
After an MSDS or an MDS has been provided to the HMO and HMSO, the RIO shall continue to
perform information and data gathering on all aspects of the incident in anticipation of
information needed by the HMO or HMSO Information and data that may be required at an
incident in addition to that provided on an MSDS or an MDS may include, but is not limited to;
*

Air Modeling
-

Probably/Potential plume location

-

Time/Concentration footprint at source

-

Interior and exterior time concentration footprint at target
36

occupancies
*

Chemistry/Physics information
-

Chemical family

-

Temperature/Vapor pressure curve

-

Detailed reactivity data

*

Container design specifications

*

Safety device design specifications

*

Environmental hazards

*

Recommended decontamination methods

*

Shipper/Manufacturer name and phone number

*

Sources for technical information specialists

*

CHEMTREC

The RIO shall not place calls for assistance or notification to the DEC, EPA,
shipper/manufacturer, or outside agencies unless specifically directed to do so by the HMO.
CHEMTREC shall be the only exception. The RIO may contact CHEMTREC without specific
instructions from the HMO. All information provided by CHEMTREC shall be documented in
writing by the RIO as it is received.
HAZARD/RISK ASSESSMENT
As soon as sufficient information has been attained, the HMO shall perform a Hazard/Risk
Assessment. Hazard/Risk Assessment is defined as the process of analyzing available
information and assessing the hazards and risks to critical receptors both currently and as the
incident progresses. The Hazard/Risk assessment is the primary tool utilized to determine the
need for HMRT intervention and the time constraints for that intervention. As such, the HMO
shall provide the IC with a detailed Hazard/Risk Assessment as soon as possible. Plan
development and preparations for offensive actions can be started as soon as sufficient
information is available. However, only after the IC has approved offensive intervention actions
shall the HMRT proceed with implementation of an offensive action plan.
HAZMAT IQ SYSTEM
The HAZMAT IQ system can assist personnel in determining product and PPE. This system
coincides with use of the NIOSH chemical guide. Personnel shall be trained in this system if it is
utilized.

37

SECTION 4
SAFETY
SAFETY OFFICER
The HMRT shall assign a HMSO at all incidents. For those incidents of minimal risk to
emergency response personnel, not requiring the establishment of a Hot Zone and requiring an
HMRT response of only four (4) personnel, the HMO may also serve as the HMSO. The HMSO
shall be responsible to ensure the safety of all personnel operating within the Hazardous
Materials Sector. The HMSO shall maintain open communications and information flow with the
Incident Safety Officer should one be assigned by the IC. Although the HMSO is responsible to
ensure the safety of all operations and personnel within the Hazardous Materials Sector, it is the
duty and responsibility of every member of the HMRT to perform their prescribed duties in a
safe and effective manner.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The HMRT recognizes the importance of engineering controls and work practices in providing a
safe work environment and, as such, does not depend solely on personal protective equipment
(PPE) to provide for personnel safety. However the HMRT does recognize the need for a detailed
PPE program as an integral part of a comprehensive safety program. The HMRT has established
a complete PPE program which is included it in this text (Section VII).
CONTROL ZONES
The HMRT shall establish and enforce site control zones based on available information. All
personnel operating within the Hazardous Materials Sector shall be made aware of the control
zone locations and the operational limitations imposed upon personnel operating in and around
these zones. These zones can be modified during the course of an incident at the discretion of the
HMSO. Establishment and enforcement of these zones shall be the responsibility of the HMSO.
All control zones need not be established at every incident. Many HMRT responses involving
minimal potential hazards, such as minor fuel spills and leaks, may only require the
implementation of a Warm Zone and Cold Zone with no established Hot Zone or
Decontamination Zone. Zone establishment is incident specific.
EXCLUSION ZONE
The Exclusion Zone is the initial area thought to be contaminated or potentially dangerous to the
public and emergency responders. This is a temporary zone that shall be superseded with the
establishment of the Hot Zone and/or Warm Zone It may be initially established by first response
units prior to the HMRT's arrival. Upon arrival, the HMRT shall assess the current incident status
and modify the Exclusion Zone as necessary. The Exclusion Zone shall not be entered by any civilian
or emergency response personnel.

38

HOT ZONE
The Hot Zone (if required) shall be established after sufficient information has been obtained (if
possible) to provide the HMRT with an accurate assessment of the hazards posed by the incident.
The Hot Zone shall supersede the Exclusion Zone and may or may not encompass the same area.
The Hot Zone shall be marked through the use of landmarks, (structure, floor, roadways, etc.) or
through the use of barrier tape. The Hot Zone shall be entered only by personnel certified to the
Technician Level as a minimum, with proper PPE, and with a site safety plan in place. The Hot
Zone establishes the perimeter of the Hazard Sector. This area is deemed dangerous and/or
contaminated.
DECONTAMINATION ZONE
The Decontamination Zone includes the decontamination pools, decontamination shower, and
the area directly between the Hot Zone and decon (if not immediately adjacent). It is generally
located immediately adjacent to the Hot Zone, unless conditions prevent this placement, and
wholly within the Warm Zone. It is expected to become contaminated as a result of
decontamination operations. Unprotected emergency response personnel shall not be permitted
within this zone. Only properly protected decontamination personnel and those personnel
undergoing decontamination shall be allowed within this zone.
WARM ZONE
The Warm Zone is that area that lies immediately outside the Hot Zone or, in the absence of a
Hot Zone at minimal risk incidents, may encompass the incident site. The size and scope of the
Warm Zone is dependent upon the incident. This area, although not inherently dangerous and/or
contaminated does present personnel operating within its boundaries with a degree of danger
should conditions change or the incident deteriorate beyond expectations. If areas of the Warm
Zone become contaminated or at inherent risk of contamination or physical danger, the Hot Zone
shall be expanded to include this area and the Warm Zone adjusted accordingly. The Warm Zone
is not generally formally demarcated. Only those personnel required to support the HMRT’s
operations within the Hot Zone shall be allowed within the Warm Zone. All personnel operating
within this area shall coordinate with the HMO and shall be the responsibility of the HMSO.
Personnel and units who may operate within this area include;
*

HMO/HMSO

*

RIO

*

BT/Back up Team

*

DO/Decontamination team

39

*

Emergency decontamination team

*

Fire suppression support personnel

*

Medical Standby Team

COLD ZONE
The Cold Zone is the entire vicinity outside the Warm Zone. The Cold Zone is determined to be
at no risk of contamination and/or physical dangers. The Cold Zone is deemed to be safe for
unprotected emergency responders and civilians regardless of incident deterioration or
anticipated changes in incident conditions. Emergency response personnel who may operate
within this area include;
*

Incident Commander

*

Command support sectors

*

Operations

*

Outside agencies not currently directly involved with HMRT operations

*

Incident Safety Officer

Civilian personnel may be excluded from the area of emergency response operations within the
Cold Zone. However, this exclusion is not based upon any hazards posed by the product(s). It is
at the discretion of the IC, and is not enforced by, nor under the responsibility of, the HMRT.
SITE SAFETY PLAN
A Site Safety Plan shall be developed by the HMSO and implemented at all incidents requiring
the establishment of a Hot Zone. The Site Safety Plan shall be in place prior to any Hot Zone
entry. The Plan shall include the following:
*

Product(s) involved

*

Hazard assessment

*

Purpose of entry

*

Method of communication I Radio frequency

*

Primary & secondary personnel decontamination methods

*

Emergency procedures
-

Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC) or PPE Failure
Entry Team injury

40

Uncontrolled contamination beyond Hot Zone
Entry Team rescue procedures
* Notable site specific safety concerns
* Monitoring methods and instruments
Flammable
Radiation
*

Specific chemical(s)

Medical provider

* Signs/symptoms of exposure
* First aid methods
* Personnel Company assignments
* Sketch of incident scene
If a reconnaissance or other type entry into the Hot Zone is made prior to a positive identification
of the product(s) involved, a Site Safety Plan based upon available information shall be
developed and implemented (Section XIV, Identifying Unknowns). If multiple types of Hot Zone
entries are to be made (i.e. recon, rescue, mitigation), a Site Safety Plan must be developed for
each entry based upon tasks to be performed and available information. If feasible, a Site Safety
Plan can be modified to accommodate various entry purposes in place of a completely rewritten
plan. This practice shall be incident specific and at the discretion of the HMSO.
CONTAMINATION CONTROL
The HMRT shall make every effort to confine all chemical, radiological and/or biological
contamination to within secured areas. Areas considered to be secure include the Hot Zone and
the Decontamination Zone. Methods utilized to ensure the confinement of contamination to these
areas may include;
* Physical barriers
Dikes
Retention areas
Absorbents
Booms
* Securing of storm and sewer drains
* Vapor control methods
-

Fog streams

-

Foam

-

Physical covering

-

Mechanical ventilation control

41

* Decontamination
-

Complete decontamination of all personnel upon exiting
The Hot Zone

-

Complete decontamination of all potentially exposed
civilian and emergency response personnel

-

Complete decon of all non-disposable equipment
(on scene or packaged for off-site decontamination)

* Disposal
Collection and packaging for disposal of contaminated

-

decontamination materials
-

Collection and packaging of all non-reusable equipment for
disposal

* Monitoring
-

Monitoring Hot Zone and Decontamination Zone perimeters
for contamination

-

Monitoring of all personnel and equipment for contamination

Upon completion of HMRT operations, any incident site that cannot be verified as contamination
free by the HMRT shall be released to the DEC or other responsible party. Under no
circumstances shall the HMRT abandon a potentially contaminated site without proper
notifications to the DEC or other responsible party.
SAFETY OF PERSONNEL OPERATING WITHIN THE HOT ZONE
The HMRT utilizes the Buddy System for entry into the Hot Zone without exception. The use of
two (2) person teams for Hot Zone entry provides for added safety for each team member. If one
team member must exit the Hot Zone for any reason, both team members shall exit together
It shall be the responsibility of the HMSO to monitor all actions of the Entry Team within the
Hot Zone for personnel safety. Personnel operating within the Hot Zone shall be monitored for
time within the Hot Zone, air supply, Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC) failure and radiation
exposure (when applicable).
HOT ZONE TIME
The HMSO shall document the time of entry into the Hot Zone for all personnel. No personnel
shall be allowed to be within the Hot Zone in excess of twenty minutes without the approval of
the HMO and the HMSO. Additional time within the Hot Zone shall be allowed in five minute
extensions. The HMSO shall track Hot Zone time and shall notify the HMO and the Entry Team
at ten minute, fifteen minute, and twenty minute intervals.
42

AIR SUPPLY
The HMSO shall document the cylinder pressure of all personnel prior to entering the Hot Zone.
The HMSO shall also be responsible for ensuring the proper operation of breathing apparatus at
the time of donning by personnel entering the Hot Zone in CPC. The HMSO may request
personnel within the Hot Zone check their current air supply at regular intervals depending upon
the conditions and work load. For time extensions beyond thirty minutes, a visual check of air
supply is mandatory. The HMSO shall determine, based upon location, air consumption rate and
level of decontamination required, the minimum required air supply to exit the Hot Zone. Both
Entry Team members shall immediately exit the Hot Zone upon a low pressure warning alarm.
CPC FAILURE
Entry Team members shall remain constantly aware of potential CPC failure caused by chemical
and/or physical damage. Each member is charged with the responsibility of observing the
condition of their partners CPC. In addition, the HMSO shall constantly observe and evaluate the
condition of the Entry Teams CPC (utilizing binoculars as necessary) as long as the Entry Team
remains in view. Upon any sign of failure, the entry shall be aborted and all personnel shall
immediately exit the Hot Zone.

RADIATION EXPOSURE
Radiation exposure to personnel operating within the Hot Zone (Section XVI, Radiological
Incidents) shall be monitored at all incidents involving radioactive materials or unknowns. The
HMSO shall ensure all personnel operating within the Hot Zone wear a dosimeter. The HMSO
shall document the serial numbers of units donned by each member. The HMSO may request
Entry Team members read their dosimeters at regular intervals. No HMRT member shall be
allowed an exposure in excess of twenty five RAD.
MEDICAL SUPPORT
The HMRT shall not enter a Hot Zone without a medical support unit dedicated for HMRT
needs. The medical support unit must have transport capabilities and be staffed with two (2)
EMT’s as a minimum. This unit shall not be utilized for any purpose other than the potential
needs of HMRT personnel. (See Section X)
COORDINATION WITH OUTSIDE AGENCIES
At incidents requiring the assistance of outside agencies the HMO and HMSO shall confer with
agency leaders to discuss site safety and operations. While the HMRT is operating on site, the
HMSO shall maintain responsibility for site safety and therefore must approve all operational
plans proposed by outside agency personnel. The HMSO is responsible to ensure the safe
interaction of multiple agency operations within the Hazardous Materials Sector.

43

SECTION 5
HMRT RESPONSE
LEVELS OF RESPONSE
There are two levels of response for the Hazardous Materials Response Team. A Recon Response
may consist of one or two firefighters and an officer. Many responses performed by members of
the HMRT can be safely and effectively mitigated by a Recon Response. The senior or ranking
officer shall determine the level of response required based on dispatch information. The
response level may be upgraded to a full response by the company officer upon arrival and/or
receipt of additional information.
RECON RESPONSE
The HMRT has at least two purposes for a Recon response:
1) A basic simple hazmat incident may be handled as a detail by any Engine Company who
carries the necessary equipment and personnel to mitigate the incident. The Engine Company
may request additional responses as needed.
2) As incidents require a need for the HMRT, it will be the decision of the OIC at the Auburn
Fire Department after gathering all the information available, whether to assemble a Recon Team
preferably made up of at least one firefighter and an officer who are a part of the HMRT for
immediate dispatch, so as to analyze/assist at the scene of the hazardous materials incident, as
soon as possible.
Note: The Recon Team after evaluating the situation or upon receiving enough pertinent
information may request a full HMRT response. In addition, should the incident be too large for
the local HMRT to handle, the option will remain for the HMRT OIC to call for the Regional
Hazmat Consortium consisting of neighboring counties who have HMRT’s.
FULL RESPONSE
When indicated by dispatch information, requested by the HMRT on a Recon Response, or
requested by a chief officer, a Full Response of the HMRT shall occur. The duty chief will
determine how many members of the HMRT are already on duty that could be released to
respond to the incident. Those members who are released to respond will gather as directed to
await deployment. The duty chief will then call in additional personnel to sufficiently staff the
Auburn Fire Department equipment from which HMRT members were pulled from. Notification
may be made if needed, to request HMRT members to respond in for duty. Auburn Fire
Department equipment and the County Hazmat Trailer(s) may also be deployed as needed.
The HMRT should request the dispatch of an assistant chief on a full HMRT response.

44

RELEASE FROM ALARM SCENES
The HMRT may be released from alarm scenes when the HMRT OIC is satisfied with turning the
scene over to another resource such as the (incidents) actual Incident Commander, and or a
hazmat mitigation or clean-up crew. The HMRT shall not be released from one scene to respond
to another without proper procedures being followed and an agreement made between the HMRT
OIC and the Incident Commander - taking into consideration the safety of response personnel
and their equipment. When practical, the HMRT OIC shall notify the 911 Center with an
approximate response time of the HMRT when another hazmat call waits, so that the 911 Center
can respond the closest available proper equipment and personnel.
INTERACTION WITH OTHER FIRE DEPARTMENT UNITS
Many incidents requiring the utilization of the HMRT shall also require the utilization of
numerous other Fire Department Units. The HMRT OIC shall determine the need for support
units within the Hazardous Materials Sector and inform Operations and/or the IC. All requests
for additional Fire Department response shall be made through the IC. The HMRT shall not
directly request additional units from the 911 Center except when no chief officer is assigned to
the incident. The HMRT may request an assistant chief be assigned to the incident (if one has not
already been assigned) if more than one Auburn Fire Department Company, in addition to the
HMRT is required at an incident.
The HMRT OIC or HMO is responsible for all operations within the Hazardous Materials Sector,
and as such, shall direct all Fire Department units operating within the Sector (i.e.
decontamination, vapor suppression, etc.). All necessary communications between the HMRT
and Fire Department Units operating outside the Warm zone in support of the Hazardous
Materials Sector shall be made through Operations with the exception of information regarding
urgent safety concerns.
INCIDENT COMMAND SYSTEM
The HMRT utilizes the Incident Command System (ICS), as adopted by the Auburn Fire
Department and Cayuga County, at all Hazardous Materials incidents. The HMRT shall operate
within the ICS at all times.

45

SECTION 6
COMMUNICATIONS
RADIO DESIGNATIONS
The HMRT shall utilize the following personnel and team designations when operating at an
incident scene:
Position:

Radio Identifier:

Hazmat Officer (HMO)

Hazmat Officer

Hazmat Safety Officer (HMSO)

Hazmat Safety

Entry Team (ET)

Entry Team

Back Up Team (BT)

Back-up

Resource Information Officer (RIO)

Resource

Decon Officer (DO)

Decon

Other Fire Department units operating within the hazard sector in support of the HMRT shall
utilize the radio designation of their respective company regardless of their assignment.
If conditions dictate the need for multiple entry teams to be operating simultaneously or
consecutively, Entry Team 1, Entry Team 2, etc. shall be utilized to delineate individual teams. If
the need arises for personnel assignments to change during an incident, such as the back-up team
becoming an entry team, radio designations shall be reassigned accordingly. If it is necessary for
the backup team to function in the hot-zone in an ET rescue capacity, the team shall maintain
their backup team radio designation during the rescue operation.
The HMO shall ensure any changes in radio designations, based on personnel reassignment, are
clearly understood by all affected personnel and the HMSO. The HMO shall also ensure affected
personnel, including the HMSO, are notified of additional radio designations such as a second
entry team.
RADIO PROCEDURES
The HMRT shall be assigned a dedicated radio frequency upon request from the Dispatch Center.
This request shall be made by the Incident Commander. If required, the HMRT may utilize a
frequency separate from the incident frequency for entry operations. This may be necessary to
ensure an open, dedicated, channel for information transmitted into, and out of, the Hot-Zone.
This practice will be dependent upon the incident magnitude and shall be utilized only with
approval of the Dispatch Center via the Incident Commander.

46

EQUIPMENT
Each member of the HMRT should be assigned an intrinsically safe radio. The HMRT has pushto-talk radio communications system that secures within the HMRT member’s chemical
protective clothing. Unit batteries are to be kept fresh and inspected and operationally tested on a
regular basis. In addition, the HMRT maintains other radios, utilizing frequencies used by county
fire agencies. These units are designated for use by the HMO, HMSO and/or command
personnel. These units are not designated for use by the HMRT for entry into any Hot-Zone with
a potential flammable atmosphere.
HAND SIGNALS
The HMRT recognizes that although radio equipment is tested regularly and prior to any HotZone Entry, the potential for a radio failure while operating within chemical protective clothing
exists. As such the HMRT utilizes a series of simple hand-signals for use by members in
chemical protective clothing should a member experience a radio failure. These signals are
included in Appendix II.

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SECTION 7
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT PROGRAM
SELECTION BASED UPON SITE HAZARDS
The HMSO is responsible for assessing the hazards presented to the HMRT at every incident.
PPE selection for all personnel operating within the Hazard Sector shall be performed by the
HM SO and shall be based upon this assessment. The HIMSO shall consider the following
hazards when performing the site hazard assessment.
* Chemical Exposure Hazard
-Routes of Entry
- Physical State
-Method of Dispersion
-PPE Compatibility
*

Thermal Hazards

*

Projectile Hazards

*

Puncture Hazards

*

Noise Hazards

*

Fall Hazards

*

Crushing Hazards

*

Electrical Hazards

In addition to considering the hazards presented by the incident and environment, the HMSO
shall consider the hazards presented to personnel from the operational procedures being
performed.
CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The HMRT maintains an extensive array of personal protective equipment for use by team
members. In addition, all fire department personnel who may be required to operate within the
Hazard Sector are equipped with full structural fire protection equipment and positive pressure
SCBA. PPE maintained by the HMRT allows personnel to operate with the following chemical
protection levels:
LEVEL “A” PROTECTION
* Trellchem SUPER Level A Chemical Protective Suits and Trellchem VPS with flash protection
* Scott 60 Minute Rated SCBA
* Scott 30 Minute Rated SCBA
Level “A” Protection shall be utilized when:

48

The hazardous substance has been identified and requires the highest level of protection for skin,

eyes, and the respiratory system based on either the measured (or potential for) high
concentration of atmospheric vapors, gases, or particulates; or the site operations and work
functions involve a high potential for splash, immersion, or exposure to unexpected vapors,
gases, or particulates of materials that are harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through
the skin.
Substances with a high degree of hazard to the skin are known or suspected to be present, and
skin contact is possible.
Operations must be conducted in confined, poorly ventilated areas, and the absence of conditions
requiring Level “A” has not been ruled out.
The use of Level “A” suits is limited by chemical compatibility and it is the responsibility of the
HMSO to ensure proper selection based upon available compatibility information. Use of Level
“A” protection also requires SCBA to be worn and therefore limits personnel to the time
limitations of SCBA use.
LEVEL “B” PROTECTION
*

Level “B” suits:Kappler (now Dupont) CPF3 model # 3T414 and Dupont Tychem F

*

Scott 60 Minute Rated SCBA

*

Scott 30 Minute Rated SCBA

Level B protection shall be utilized when:
The type and atmospheric concentration has been identified and requires a high level of
respiratory protection, but less skin protection.
The presence of incompletely identified vapors or gases is indicated by a direct reading
organic vapor instrument, but vapors and gases are not suspected of containing high
levels of chemicals harmful to skin or being capable of being absorbed through the skin.
The atmospheric contaminants, liquid splashes, or other direct contact will not adversely
affect or be absorbed through the skin, but may damage or otherwise contaminate work
uniforms, turnout equipment and/or SCBA.
The use of Level B suits is limited by chemical compatibility and it is the responsibility of the
HMSO to ensure proper selection based upon available compatibility information. Use of Level
B protection of the type specified by the HMRT requires SCBA to be worn inside the protective
suit. This necessitates the need for SCBA for all Level B protective envelopes regardless of the
presence of, or lack of, respiratory hazards. Duration of operations for personnel operating in

49

Level B protection therefore is limited to the time limitations of SCBA use.
LEVEL “C” PROTECTION

Refer to Level “B” protection at this time.
LEVEL “D” PROTECTION
* Tyvek coveralls
* Turnout gear
Level D protection shall be utilized when:
The atmosphere contains no known hazard.
Work functions preclude splashes, immersion, or the potential for unexpected inhalation
of, or contact with, hazardous levels of any chemicals.
Level D protection is primarily for protection from nuisance contamination of a non-respiratory
hazard. Limitations of Level D protection include its inability to protect personnel from
respiratory hazards and skin absorbed hazards.
Due to the varied chemical compatibility of chemical protective materials, the HMRT maintains
an extensive inventory of chemical resistant gloves in addition to those specified by the HMRT
as an integral suit component. It is the responsibility of the HMSO to select additional chemical
resistant gloves to be worn by personnel as site conditions dictate. The types of chemical
resistant gloves are;
*

Silver Shield chemical resistant gloves (Level “A” use)

*

Trellchem HPS/VPS (black in color, Level “A” use)

*

Kevlar fiber for thermal and cut protection (yellow in color)

*

Nitrile rubber (green in color, Level “B” and “C” use)

*

PVC coated (dipped) (black in color, Level “B” and “C” use)

*

Latex medical gloves (Level “A”, “B” and “C” use)

The HMRT maintains an inventory of chemical resistive boots and boot covers for use with any
chemical protective envelope as site conditions dictate. All Limited-Use chemical protective suits
utilized by the HMRT require the use of a chemical resistant boot to afford proper foot
protection. The boots maintained in inventory by the HMRT are;

50

*

PVC-Urethane chemical resistant boot

NON-CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The HMRT recognizes the need for personal protective equipment for use against non-chemical
hazards that may be encountered at a site. The HMSO is responsible for determining the need
for, and selection of, this equipment based upon site specific conditions.

THERMAL PROTECTION
*

Nomex gloves

*

Leather Gloves

*

Turnout coats

*

Turnout bunker pants

*

Nomex work uniforms

*

PBI hoods

CRUSHING, PUNCTURE, PROJECTILE PROTECTION
*

Hardhats

*

Safety goggles

*

Steel toe/steel shank boots

*

Leather gloves

*

Fire Helmets w/face shield

NOISE PROTECTION
*

Disposable ear plugs /31 decibel rating

*

Ear muffs /22 decibel rating

PPE MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
All personal protective equipment maintained by the HMRT is maintained and stored according
manufacturers specifications. All PPE maintenance is performed by competent personnel and is
performed in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.
PPE DECONTAMINATION AND DISPOSAL

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All personal protective equipment known or suspected of being contaminated by any chemical
capable of causing damage to the PPE or harm to personnel handling or utilizing the equipment
shall be decontaminated or disposed of in accordance with the procedures adopted by the HMRT.
Decontamination/disposal procedures utilized by the HMRT are documented in Chapter IX of
this text.
PPE DONNING PROCEDURES
All personnel shall don personal protective equipment in accordance with the Site Safety Plan
developed by the HMSO. It is the responsibility of the HMSO to ensure all PPE required for
personnel operating within the Hazard-Sector is properly donned and in proper working
condition prior to commencement of operations that may expose personnel to hazardous
conditions.

CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING (CPC)
The HMRT shall generally assign an individual to assist personnel donning chemical protective
clothing. This individuals function is to provide assistance in donning, inspect the equipment as
it is donned, and ensure CPC requirements as specified by the HMSO is adhered to. If site
conditions preclude the availability of assistance, team members shall each act to aid their
partner and perform the duties as listed above.
When utilizing CPC, the HMRT shall utilize a minimum of two chemical resistant glove layers
except when site conditions require a high level of dexterity not attainable with more than a
single glove. A single chemical protective glove layer shall only be utilized with approval of the
HMSO. In all cases, the protection of response personnel from chemical exposure shall be the
primary consideration when selecting and donning CPC.
SCBA
SCBA shall be operationally tested after donning, but prior to full CPC enclosure. An
SCBA unit that exhibits any deficiency, including less than 90% capacity, shall not be utilized.
NON-CHEMICAL PROTECTIVE EOUPMENT
All personal protective equipment specified in the Site Safety Plan shall be donned and utilized
according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
The back-up team shall inspect and donn all PPE as required by the Site Safety Plan with the
exception of not donning the SCBA face piece or enclosing the CPC envelope. This shall only be
done upon their activation for entry into the Hot-Zone.
PPE DOFFING PROCEDURES

52

PPE shall not be removed while personnel are within the Hot-Zone. All PPE shall be removed in
such a fashion as to provide the wearer the greatest level of protection from chemical
contamination and/or exposure. SCBA shall remain in place for as long as feasible during
decontamination and doffing of personal protective equipment to afford personnel maximum
protection from respiratory hazards.
In the event entry team personnel must replace SCBA cylinders prior to re-entering a hazardous
area, personnel shall be decontaminated to the extent possible prior to doffing CPC to access
their SCBA. Unless directed otherwise by the HMSO, CPC shall be doffed only to the extent
necessary to allow for the cylinder change. The cylinder shall be replaced without the removal of
the face piece. Decon personnel shall disconnect the low pressure hose and hold it away from the
individuals body and equipment while the cylinder is changed. The contaminated individual shall
not handle any portion of the SCBA or any interior portion of his or her chemical protective
envelope to prevent unnecessary exposure.

PPE INSPECTION PROCEDURES
The HMRT utilizes a multi-faceted inspection program to ensure the operational readiness and
safety of all personal protective equipment maintained in inventory. Any PPE failing inspection
shall be immediately removed from service and shall not be placed into service until repaired and
inspected. The following is a schedule of PPE inspections;

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ITEM

Prior to Use

Daily

SCBA
Cylinder Pressure
Operational Check
Low Pressure Alarm

Monthly

Annually

Full

Multi-use Chemical
Protective Suits
Zipper, Cuffs and
Exhaust Valves

Visual Inspect
Seams, Face-shield,

Limited Use
Chemical
Protective Suits
Exhaust Valves

Visual Inspect of
Seams, Face-shield,
Zipper, Cuffs and

Chemical Protective
Gloves

Visual Inspect

Visual Inspect

Non-Chemical
Protective Gloves

Visual Inspect

Visual Inspect

Chemical Protective
Boots

Visual Inspect

Visual Inspect

Ear Muff Hearing
Protectors

Visual Inspect

Visual Inspect

Turnout Gear

Visual Inspect

Visual Inspect

Zipper, Cuffs and
Exhaust Valves

Visual Inspect
Seams, Face-shield,
Visual
Inspect

Pressure
Test and

Pressure
Test and
Visual
Inspect
Pressure
Test

Leak
Test

All inspections, with the exception of those performed prior to use are documented and kept on
file for review. In addition, a record is made of the uses, exposures, inspections, and repairs of all
chemical protective suits maintained by the HMRT.
Below is the guideline from OSHA in regards to level of protections:

54

The following constitute Level A equipment;
1. Positive pressure, full face-piece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), or positive
pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA, approved by the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
2. Totally-encapsulating chemical-protective suit.
3. Coveralls.
4. Long underwear.
5. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
6. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
7. Boots, chemical-resistant, steel toe and shank.
8. Hard hat (under suit).
9. Disposable protective suit, gloves and boots (depending on suit construction, may be worn
over totally-encapsulating suit).
II. Level B - The highest level of respiratory protection is necessary but a lesser level of skin
protection is needed.
The following constitute Level B equipment;
1. Positive pressure, full-face piece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), or positive
pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA (NIOSH approved).
2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls and long-sleeved jacket; coveralls; one or twopiece chemical-splash suit; disposable chemical-resistant overalls).
3. Coveralls.
4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
6. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant steel toe and shank.
7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable).
8. Hard hat.
9. Face shield.
III. Level C - The concentration(s) and type(s) of airborne substance(s) is known and the criteria
for using air purifying respirators are met.
The following constitute Level C equipment;
1. Full-face or half-mask, air purifying respirators (NIOSH approved).

55

2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls; two-piece chemical-splash suit; disposable
chemical-resistant overalls).
3. Coveralls.
4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
6. Boots (outer), chemical-resistant steel toe and shank.
7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable).
8. Hard hat.
9. Escape mask.
10. Face shield.
IV. Level D - A work uniform affording minimal protection: used for nuisance contamination
only.
The following constitute Level D equipment;
1. Coveralls.
2. Gloves.
3. Boots/shoes, chemical-resistant steel toe and shank.
4. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable).
5. Safety glasses or chemical splash goggles.
6. Hard hat.
7. Escape mask.
8. Face shield.
Part B. The types of hazards for which levels A, B, C, and D protection are appropriate are
described below:
I. Level A - Level A protection should be used when:
1. The hazardous substance has been identified and requires the highest level of protection for
skin, eyes, and the respiratory system based on either the measured (or potential for) high
concentration of atmospheric vapors, gases, or particulates; or the site operations and work
functions involve a high potential for splash, immersion, or exposure to unexpected vapors,
gases, or particulates of materials that are harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through
the skin,

56

2. Substances with a high degree of hazard to the skin are known or suspected to be present, and
skin contact is possible; or
3. Operations must be conducted in confined, poorly ventilated areas, and the absence of
conditions requiring Level A has not yet been determined.
II. Level B protection should be used when:
1. The type and atmospheric concentration of substances have been identified and require a high
level of respiratory protection, but less skin protection.
2. The atmosphere contains less than 19.5 percent oxygen; or
3. The presence of incompletely identified vapors or gases is indicated by a direct-reading
organic vapor detection instrument, but vapors and gases are not suspected of containing high
levels of chemicals harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through the skin.
Note: This involves atmospheres with IDLH concentrations of specific substances that present
severe inhalation hazards and that do not represent a severe skin hazard; or that do not meet the
criteria for use of air-purifying respirators.
III. Level C - Level C protection should be used when:
1. The atmospheric contaminants, liquid splashes, or other direct contact will not adversely affect
or be absorbed through any exposed skin;
2. The types of air contaminants have been identified, concentrations measured, and an airpurifying respirator is available that can remove the contaminants; and
3. All criteria for the use of air-purifying respirators are met.
IV. Level D - Level D protection should be used when:
1. The atmosphere contains no known hazard; and
2. Work functions preclude splashes, immersion, or the potential for unexpected inhalation of or
contact with hazardous levels of any chemicals.
Note: As stated before, combinations of personal protective equipment other than those described
for Levels A, B, C, and D protection may be more appropriate and may be used to provide the
proper level of protection.
As an aid in selecting suitable chemical protective clothing, it should be noted that the National
Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has developed standards on chemical protective clothing.
The standards that have been adopted by include:
NFPA 1991 - Standard on Vapor-Protective Suits for Hazardous Chemical Emergencies (EPA
Level A Protective Clothing)
NFPA 1992 - Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Suits for Hazardous Chemical Emergencies
(EPA Level B Protective Clothing)

57

NFPA 1993 - Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Suits for Non-emergency, Non-flammable
Hazardous Chemical Situations (EPA Level B Protective Clothing)
These standards apply documentation and performance requirements to the manufacture of
chemical protective suits. Chemical protective suits meeting these requirements are labeled as
compliant with the appropriate standard. It is recommended that chemical protective suits that
meet these standards be used.
Use of the HAZMAT IQ system will assist in decision making of PPE.

SECTION 8
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION PROGRAM
PURPOSE
The purpose of this Respiratory Protection Program is to provide members of the HMRT with
protection from respiratory hazards associated with exposure to harmful vapors, dusts, mists,
fumes, gases and oxygen deficiency. Although the HMRT recognizes the importance of
engineering controls and work practices in controlling airborne hazards, complete control by these
methods is impractical, ineffective, or inapplicable at many incident sites. The use of respiratory
protective equipment is provided to ensure the safety of team members when exposed to
respiratory hazards that cannot be controlled through other means.
This program is in compliance with the requirements for a written Respiratory Protection
Program as specified in OSHA 1910.134, Respiratory Protection, paragraph (b).
SELECTION
The use of a respiratory protective device is justified only after consideration of the factors
involved indicates that the device selected will provide satisfactory protection when properly
used.
The published OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) shall be utilized for determining
respirator use and selection. If a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) is not available for a
particular contaminant, the Threshold Limit Value (TLV) shall be utilized.
INSTRUCTION
It is important that the wearer be properly instructed in the selection, use, and maintenance of the
respirator by a competent person. No one shall be permitted to wear a respirator unless they have
been instructed in its use. Such instruction shall cover;

58

A.

Instruction in the nature of the hazard, whether acute, chronic, or both, and an
appraisal of what may happen if the device is not properly used.

B.

Explanation of why more positive control of air contaminants is not feasible. This
shall include recognition that every reasonable effort is being made to reduce or
eliminate the need for respiratory protective devices

C.

A discussion of why this is the proper type of unit for the particular purpose.

D.

A discussion of the devices capabilities and limitations.

E.

Instruction and training in actual use and close and frequent supervision to assure
that it continue to be properly used.

Training shall provide the team member an opportunity to handle the device, have it fitted
properly, test its face piece-to-face seal, wear it in normal air for a long familiarity period and
wear it in a test atmosphere.
SUPERVISION
After the wearer is instructed in the use of a respirator, adequate supervision shall be given to
ensure that the correct device is being used properly for each exposure condition and that the device
is in good working condition.
HMRT Officers shall periodically monitor;
A.

Individual employee use of respirators to ensure the correct device is being
properly used for the exposure condition and the device is in good operating
condition.

B.

Individual user and respirator compliance with manufacturer care, use, and
inspection procedures.

MEDICAL SURVEILLANCE
HMRT members shall not receive respiratory training, nor be assigned to a job function requiring
respiratory protection until a physician has determined that they are physically and
psychologically capable of performing the work using the respiratory protective equipment.
STORAGE
Respirators shall be stored away from direct sunlight, heat, and excessive moisture.
All HMRT members have been issued an approved face piece for Scott 30 minute and 60 minute
SCBA’s.They shall store their face pieces with their Personal Protective Equipment and shall
ensure they are maintained clean and are stored away from direct sunlight, heat, and excessive
moisture.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
SCBA’s shall be visually inspected by the user before and after each use. In addition all SCBA’s

59

shall receive a documented daily inspection, per manufacturer’s instructions, along with
documented inspections on the first day of each month as per departmental SOP's.
SCBA’s shall be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each use and when indicated with an
approved cleaner and disinfectant, then wiped dry or allowed to air dry.
Any SCBA found to be defective shall be immediately removed from service until repaired by an
authorized person, as authorized by the manufacturer. A repaired unit shall be thoroughly
inspected, per manufacturer’s instructions, before being placed back in service.
APPROVALS
All respirators utilized by the HMRT shall be certified by the National Institute of Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH). Listed below, with a description of their intended uses, are the only
respirators approved to be used at this time. Any additions or deletions to either the list of
approved respirators or their intended uses must first be approved by the Fire Chief.
1)

Scott 30 Minute Rated SCBA
Intended uses:

2)

A.

Entry into contaminated atmospheres known, or suspected, to be above
the published OSHA PEL or TLV for short durations without
encapsulating CPC.

B

Use by HMRT members operating in the Warm Zone in atmospheres that
may become contaminated above the published OSHA PEL or TLV. (i.e.
decontamination personnel)

Scott 60 Minute Rated SCBA
Intended uses:

3)

A.

Entry into contaminated atmospheres known, or suspected, to be above
the published OSHA PEL or TLV with encapsulating CPC.

B.

Used by HMRT members for purposes identical to those identified for
Scott 30 Minute Rated SCBA.

3M HEPA Filter Masks Intended use:
A.

Treating first aid patients suspected or known to have active tuberculosis.

B.

For use in handling biological wastes

GENERAL
1)

Employees must be medically approved/ trained before use of respirator.

60

2) Employee’s respirator usage shall be in accordance with training given.
3) HMRT members shall not be permitted to use a respirator if facial hair or any
other condition could prevent a good face piece-to-face seal, i.e. facial hair
growth, missing dentures, interferences from eyeglasses.
4) SCBA air cylinders shall be maintained fully charged.
SECTION 9
DECONTAMINATION
DECONTAMINATION PROCESS
The HMRT utilizes a multi-step personnel and equipment decontamination process that can be
completely or partially implemented depending upon site conditions, material hazards, and
contamination potential. It is the responsibility of the HMSO to determine the need and type of
decontamination to be utilized based upon the following considerations:
*

The physical properties of the contaminant

*

The health hazards of the contaminant

*

Type of equipment utilized

*

Anticipated type and degree of contamination

*

Effectiveness of available decontamination solutions and methods

The process, when fully implemented, consists of 8 incremental steps designed to reduce the
level of contamination of personnel and equipment in an organized, systematic fashion resulting
in the maximum attainable level of decontamination possible in field conditions. If additional
decontamination is required, personnel may be transported to a medical facility or other off-site
location for further decontamination as directed by the HMSO. The 8 steps of the
decontamination process utilized by the HMRT include:
STEP 1 Personnel enter decontamination area and deposit hand tools for reuse by any
additional entry teams or later cleaning by decon personnel.
STEP 2 Decontamination of chemical protective clothing within containment pool.
STEP 3 Removal of chemical protective clothing
STEP 4 Decontamination of SCBA and personnel
STEP 5 Removal of SCBA and personal clothing
STEP 6 Personal showering with soap and water
STEP 7 Personnel dry off and dress

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STEP 8 Medical Evaluations
The HMSO shall determine which steps shall be utilized for decontamination by the HMRT. At
the discretion of the HMSO, with approval of the incident commander, steps 5-7 may be
performed upon personnel’s return to quarters. In all cases, emergency personnel and civilians
requiring decontamination shall be medically evaluated.
DECONTAMINATION METHODS
The HMRT primarily utilizes wet decontamination and/or disposal as the preferred method. The
HMRT may utilize three specific decontamination solutions, in addition to plain water, for wet
decontamination. The solution utilized is determined by the HMSO and should be used solely for
use on PPE and equipment. No decontamination medium with the exception of antibacterial soap
and water shall be used on unprotected personnel. Selection for use shall be based upon the
following guidelines;

62

Sodium Bicarbonate & Water
41bs. /10 Gallons
Inorganic acids, metal
processing wastes
Organic acids
Inorganic bases, alkali and
caustic wastes

10% Bleach &Water

Laundry Detergent & Water
Mixed to a Paste

Heavy metals: mercury, lead,
cadmium, etc.
Pesticides, chlorinated
phenols, dioxins, PCB’s

Solvents and organic
compounds
Oily, greasy unspecified
wastes not suspected to be
contaminated with pesticides

Cyanides, ammonia, nonacidic inorganic wastes
Etiologic Materials

Radioactive materials

The above Sodium Bicarbonate specific decontaminations is only possible when it is readily
available.
For decontamination of materials known or suspected to be water reactive and in sufficient
concentration to preclude the use of wet decontamination methods, dry decontamination shall be
performed. Dry decontamination shall be accomplished through the use of absorbents, blotting,
positive pressure, and/or compressed air. The method selected shall be the responsibility of the
HMSO.
The HMRT utilizes limited-use protective equipment so as to use disposal as a method of
decontamination. The HMSO is responsible for determining the level of contamination and the
viability of decontamination of limited-use protective equipment. Disposal of protective
equipment shall be accomplished through the packaging of the contaminated equipment by the
HMRT and its disposal by an outside agency or private contractor as dictated by site specific
termination procedures.
In addition to personal protective equipment, the HMSO shall also be responsible for
determining the viability of decontamination of tools and equipment. Any equipment determined
by the HMSO to require further off-site decontamination or disposal shall be packaged by the
HMRT. Only upon approval by the incident commander shall contaminated non limited-use
equipment be disposed of, or removed from the site for further decontamination.
DECONTAMINATION SITE SELECTION
The HMSO is responsible for determining the decontamination site. Its selection is based on site
specific conditions including;
*

Hot and Warm-Zone locations

*

Accessibility

*

Weather

63

*

Topography

*

Availability of space

*

Location of operational sectors

The Decontamination Site shall be located as close to the Hot-Zone as possible and wholly in the
Warm-Zone All personnel operating within the Hazard Sector shall be notified of the location of,
and extent of decontamination, prior to potential exposure.
Decontamination shall be performed by HMRT personnel or other fire department personnel
under the direction of the HMRT Decon Officer. Personnel performing decontamination shall
utilize PPE as necessary to provide protection from injury and or health hazard as a result of
exposure during decontamination operations. PPE selection for decontamination personnel is the
responsibility of the HMSO.
Technical Decontamination Procedure
The following steps should be initiated when dealing with the decontamination procedure:
1. Initiate the Incident Command System (ICS). The Incident Commander (IC) shall
appoint a Decontamination Officer who shall oversee any and all of the decontamination
procedures. The Decontamination Officer shall observe all procedures being performed
from a safe distance in the cold zone. The officer shall not be involved in the
performance of the procedures in order to be able to also act as a Safety Officer for the
decontamination station. The officer shall be in contact with the Operations Officer in
order to follow the proper chain of command in the ICS system.
2. The Decontamination Officer shall obtain a briefing from the Operations Officer as to
what objectives need to be met.
3. The Decontamination Officer shall establish the decontamination corridor. When
establishing this corridor, as always, life safety is the number one priority. This corridor
will be located in the warm zone which shall be located uphill and upwind of the hot
zone. This site shall be readily visible, being marked off with cones, flags, rope, hose or
perimeter tape.
a. Some considerations to take into account when establishing the decontamination
corridor are:
i. Weather conditions
ii. Type and amount of material involved
iii. Availability of water, power and lighting
iv. Location of drains, sewers and waterways
v. Extent of exposure
vi. Movement of people between zones

64

vii. Methods of decontamination

4. The corridor shall be at least 100 feet from a minor spill and at least 500 feet from a major
incident. HAZMAT Resource Officer (RIO) shall be contacted to ensure adequate
clearance has been established for the product in question. No contaminated victims shall
pass through the warm zone (decontamination corridor) until the decontamination station
is complete. All victims shall be advised by the Decontamination Officer, or delegate, of
all necessary instructions.
5. All equipment needed shall be identified for the operation. The Decontamination Officer
shall supervise the members of the decontamination team and instruct what equipment will
be needed for sufficient execution of objectives. Some equipment needed, but not limited
to, may be lighting, generators, brushes, buckets, garden hoses, platforms, catch basins or
pools, tarps, drainage covers, over pack drums, lumber etc.
6. Depending on the contaminate in question, a eight (8) step decontamination procedure, or
variation thereof, shall be set up with instruction from the Decontamination Officer. Should
a mass decontamination procedure be needed, see the Mass Decontamination Section.
7. Entry and exit points to the hot zone shall be established. Tool drop off/ pick up locations
will be present at the established points
8. Water supplies shall be established. An Engine Company may be dedicated to the
Decontamination Team. Water heaters may be utilized to protect entry team members and
victims from the threat of cold exposure.
9. Ground protection shall be ensured to protect any contaminated water from entering the
environment. All water shall be contained for proper disposal.
10. Proper collection containers shall be placed at appropriate points to ensure contaminated
clothing is properly disposed of.
11. Proper decontamination solutions shall be available. Dawn Dish soap solution, or if
necessary a 10:1 dilution of bleach and water shall be in place prior to completion of decon
set up. Contact HAZMAT Resource for help in choosing the proper solution.
12. All Decontamination Team members assisting in the decontamination of entry team
members may be in protective clothing one level below the highest level used.
13. The decontamination zone shall be set up completely and all members shall be in place
prior to any entry team members entering the hot zone.
14. Medical evaluation stations shall be set up in the cold zone to ensure all entry team
members, decon team members and victims have a medical evaluation after
decontamination but prior to transport to a medical facility. Advanced Life Support
personnel should be at these stations.

65

15. Upon exiting the hot zone, entry team members shall drop all tools used in the hot zone at
the designated tool drop off points.
16. Entry team members shall proceed one at a time through the decontamination station,
always following the instructions of the Decon Team members.
17. Entry team members shall go through a thorough decontamination prior to doffing entry
equipment. This shall be a slow, methodical process to ensure the contaminate has been
removed.

18. Decontamination Team members shall decon Entry Team personnel from the head down,
ensuring all contaminate is removed to the best of their ability. All entry level suits,
including boots, shall be decontaminated prior to removal to prevent the spread of
contaminate.
19. Entry team members shall be assisted with the removal of entry suits in the following order
to protect entry team members from possible exposure to contaminate:
a. Remove all tape used to seal around boots, gloves and zippers
b. Remove protected boot covers and boots
c. Remove all outer gloves
d. Remove all outer protective clothing from the head down, however DO NOT
DISCONNECT the SCBA at this time.
e. Dispose of all contaminated clothing in properly labeled bags to ensure proper
cleaning
f. Once it has been deemed safe to remove, remove the SCBA face piece and
properly decontaminate.
g. All contaminated materials shall be disposed of in an over pack drum or double
bagged to prevent further contamination.
20. All Entry team members shall then proceed to the medical evaluation station or further
secondary decon stations if necessary.
21. Should evidence need to proceed through the decontamination corridor, the
Decontamination Team shall properly decontaminate the material.
22. Once all entry team members have been fully accounted for and all victims have been
decontaminated, the Decontamination team shall go through the decon station.
23. All materials used in the decontamination station shall be properly disposed of.
24. All contaminated water shall be properly disposed of.
25. The Decontamination Officer shall ensure OpTech or other appropriate company has been
contacted to dispose of all used materials.
26. All necessary documentation shall be completed and turned into the Incident Commander
for proper filing.

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Emergency Decontamination Procedure
The following steps should be initiated when dealing with an unidentified hazardous material:
1. Upon arrival at the scene a proper scene size up shall be initiated. The number of patients
and material involved shall be identified and the information shall be relayed to the
Incident Commander (IC).

2. DO NOT come in contact with the exposed victim. Attempt to identify the material
involved from a safe location. Verbal communication is the best method. A portable public
address system may be beneficial.
3. Should the material involved remain unidentified or additional assistance needed, the IC
shall request the Auburn Fire Department Hazardous Materials Response Team (HMRT).
4. Move the victim out of the hazard zone. A suitable location shall be established which
provides privacy for the victim, ease of access for the responders and security from the
general public.
5. A water supply should be secured by the first arriving engine company. If available,
portable water heaters may be requested should technical decontamination be necessary.
6. All responders shall wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Basic turnout gear
and SCBA respiratory protection shall be used when providing emergency
decontamination. Upon identification of the material, other methods of PPE shall be
initiated if required.
7. Follow the flush-strip-flush method when providing decontamination for the victims, and
if necessary the rescuers.
a. Flush: Flush the victim with copious amounts of water for approximately 1-2
minutes. This shall remove the majority of the material. Should the material be
water reactive, do not apply water. Have the victim move to the next step.
b. Strip: Have the victim remove all contaminated clothing. It is vital that the privacy
of the victim be kept. Do not have the victim remove clothing in the presence of
the general public
c. Flush: Have the victim again flush with copious amounts of water for another 1-2
minutes so that the remainder of any material may be removed.
8. Have the victim complete any personal hygiene if available. Be ready to provide the patient
with Tyvek suits or large/extra-large black trash bags to cover themselves and help maintain
privacy.
9. Should any responder come in contact with a contaminated victim and the material is
transferred, provide emergency decontamination for the responder following the steps used
for the victim.
10. If technical decontamination is still necessary after emergency decontamination is
completed, refer to the Technical Decontamination Section.

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Mass Decontamination Procedure
The following steps should be initiated when dealing with the mass decontamination procedure:
1. Ensure all victims are directed to a predetermined designated location. HMRT members
may need to direct the contaminated victims to this location via a portable public address
system. Should further direction be needed near the victims, ensure proper personal
protective equipment (PPE) is utilized. The use of fire line tape or fire hose may be used
to mark the location, as well as the corridor through the decontamination area.
2. Notify the local Emergency Departments(ED) that victims may have left the scene prior
to the arrival of the fire department. Decontamination procedures may be necessary at
their locations. An Engine Company may be detailed to the ED to assist if available.
3. If possible place the decontamination corridor on a level area or slight grade toward the
incident to ensure run off will not travel toward the cold zone.
4. Place two engines parallel, with the officer’s side facing each other, approximately 8-10
feet apart. Ensure all windows on the apparatus are closed. An elevated waterway from
an engine may want to be utilized if available.
5. Secure two (2) water supplies, if possible, to ensure sufficient supply.
6. Utilizing a 1.5”gated “wye”, attach 2-3 TFT nozzles, set to fog pattern, on the officer side
discharges. Set the discharge pressure at no more than 50 psi to ensure a proper fog
pattern and preventing further injury.
7. Should an aerial device be utilized, extend the aerial device over the corridor to assist in
the lengthening the corridor and providing more coverage. Set the discharge pressure at
no more than 80 psi to ensure a proper fog pattern and prevent injury.
8. Attempt to ensure a high level of patient privacy. If possible, the use of tarps can assist in
adding privacy. Media and other members of the public shall be kept away from the
incident to help ensure privacy and protect them.
9. Instruct all victims to doff their clothes and other personal items and instruct them to
place all personal belongings in bags to be decontaminated. All bags shall be labeled and
placed in a designated location.
10. Have HMRT members assist victims through the corridor via a portable public address
system. Should HMRT members need to physically assist victims through the corridor,
ensure proper PPE is donned.
11. As victims exit the mass decontamination area, Tyvek suits or large/extra-large black
trash bags may be used to cover the victims. They should then be directed toward their
next area. This area may include secondary technical decontamination, if necessary or a
waiting area that can protect them from the environment prior to their Triage and medical
evaluations.
12. All responders assisting in the mass decontamination shall then proceed through
decontamination themselves when being relieved of their duties.

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SECTION 10
MEDICAL MONITORING & REHABILITATION
FREQUENCY OF MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AND CONSULTATIONS

All HMRT members shall receive a medical examination and consultation according to the
following schedule:
Prior to assignment to the HMRT
*

Annually

*

As soon as possible after developing signs or symptoms indicating possible overexposure
to a hazardous substance or after injury from, or exposure to, concentration levels above
published exposure limits without proper PPE protection in an emergency situation

*

At more frequent times, if the examining physician determines that an increased
frequency of examination is medically necessary

CONTENT OF MEDICAL EXAMINATIONS AND CONSULTATIONS
Medical examinations shall include a medical and work history with special emphasis on
symptoms related to the handling of hazardous substances and health hazards, and to fitness for
duty including the ability to wear PPE under conditions that may be expected at an emergency
incident. The exact content of the medical examination or consultation shall be determined by
the attending physician.
PHYSICIANS WRITTEN OPINION
HMRT members shall receive a copy of the written opinion from the examining physician
containing the following;
* The physicians opinion as to whether the employee has any detected medical conditions
which would place the individual at increased risk of material impairment of the
employee’s health from work in hazardous materials emergency response
operations or from respirator use.
*

The physicians recommended limitations upon the individual’s assigned work.
*

The results of the medical examination and tests if requested by the
individual

*

A statement that the individual has been informed by the attending
physician of the results of the medical examination and any medical
conditions which require further examination or treatment.
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The written opinion obtained by the Auburn Fire Department shall not reveal specific findings or
diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure.
MEDICAL MONITORING AT EMERGENCY SITES
The HMSO is responsible to ensure the availability of advanced life support and transport
capability by a designated medical team on-site prior to any HMRT member entering a HotZone. The purpose of this medical unit is for use by HMRT personnel. Any medical needs for
civilians or other emergency response personnel requiring the use of this designated unit shall
require the immediate activation of another medical unit for use by the HMRT. Personnel
assigned to this function may be provided by the AFD Rescue Company or by an outside
ambulance service. This determination shall be made by the HMSO with the approval of the
Incident Commander.
The HMSO shall make every effort to ensure the medical unit assigned to the HMRT, as well as
other on-site medical units, are informed as to the hazards, signs and symptoms of exposure, and
recommended medical treatment, for the materials on-site personnel may be exposed to. In
addition the HMSO shall inform all personnel who may be called upon to treat injured or
exposed response personnel or civilians as to PPF that may be required during treatment and/or
patient contact.
All personnel known, or suspected, to be exposed or injured while operating on-site shall be
medically evaluated, treated, and transported to an emergency room as determined by the senior
medical person on-site. In addition all HMRT personnel shall be medically evaluated on-site
following exit and decontamination from the Hot-Zone. The content of this evaluation shall be
determined by the senior medical personnel on-site and will be based upon site specific
conditions including;
*

Environmental conditions (Temperature, Humidity, etc.)

*

PPE worn and physical stress caused by it

*

Hazards of material

As a minimum, this evaluation shall include;
*

Vital Signs

*

Assessment of heat/cold related injuries

*

Assessment for signs and symptoms of hazardous chemical exposure

SECTION 11
INSTRUMENTATION INSPECTION & CALIBRATION
INSTRUMENT & CALIBRATION TECHNICIAN
The HMRT should have if possible, one Instrument & Calibration Technician (I & C Tech).

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Otherwise, the HMRT OIC shall ensure that instruments utilized by the HMRT remain in proper
working order. The duties of the technician may include:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

Maintaining current and proper calibration of all direct reading
instruments
Establishing the schedule for instrument calibration checks
Maintaining detailed documentation of instrument maintenance and
calibration records
Performing routine preventative maintenance as per manufacturers
recommendations
Performing minor maintenance and part replacements as allowed per
manufacturers recommendations
Ensuring operation within manufacturers specifications for all direct
reading instruments
Corresponding with manufacturers and authorized service agents to ensure
prompt, quality repairs and service of instruments undergoing outside
service

DIRECT READING INSTRUMENTATION
The HMRT maintains an extensive array of direct reading instrumentation for utilization in
identifying and/or measuring atmospheric contaminants and material hazards. The instruments
maintained in inventory by the HMRT include:

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ATMOSPHERIC
(4) MultiRae Lite Multi-gas monitors w/ O2, CO, H2S, LEL and VOC sensors
(1) MultiRae Specialty Gas monitor w/ CO2, HCN, NH3, PH3, and CL2 sensors
(1) AreaRae monitor w/ HS, LEL, O2, Gamma, and VOC sensors
Each Engine and Truck carries a gas detector and a CO detector. Rescue 1 and the in service ladder truck
currently carry a Hydrogen Cyanide detector.
RADIOLOGICAL
*

(1) SAIC GR-135 Plus Identifier

*

(1) Model 3 Ludlum survey meter

*

(15) RADOS – 60R personal dosimeter for Gamma and X-ray

*

(1) AreaRae

PROCUCT SAMPLING
The HMRT also has an Ahura Tru-defender and an Ahura First Defender carried on Rescue 1.

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INSTRUMENT INSPECTION PROGRAM
The HMRT performs scheduled inspections, operational checks and calibration checks on all direct
reading instruments maintained in inventory. Inspections, operational checks and calibration checks are
performed according to manufacturer’s recommendations or, in absence of manufacturer’s
recommendations, according to the procedure prescribed by the HMRT I & C Tech or Hazmat OIC's
designees. These inspections and operational checks are performed on a schedule as follows:
INSTRUMENT PRIOR DAY WEEKLY MONTHLY BI-MONTH
USE
CALIBRATE
MULTIRAE
CALIBRA
BUMP
TEST

6 MONTH

YEAR

SERVICE
CALIBRATION

AREARAE
TRUDEFENDER
FIRST
DEFENDER
SAIC GR-135
LUDLUM
MODEL 3
RADOS
PERSONAL

CIRCUIT
CHECK

POWER
UP
POWER
UP
POWER
UP

CONFIDENCE
SAMPLE
CONFIDENCE
SAMPLE
CONFIDENCE
SAMPLE

CALIBRATE
CALIBRATE

SELF
TEST

INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION PROGRAM
Calibration of all direct reading instruments is performed when calibration checks or field performance
indicate the need for calibration. The HMRT is responsible for calibrating all instruments when needed
with the exception of radiological meters. These meters are sent to outside agencies for calibration.
In the event calibration of an instrument is required in the absence of a technician, the instrument may be
calibrated by an HMRT officer, provided the officer is trained in the appropriate calibration technique. It
is the responsibility of the person performing the calibration to ensure proper documentation is
completed and forwarded as soon as feasible. Under no circumstances shall an instrument out of
calibration be utilized at an emergency scene.

73

SECTION 12
TERMINATION PROCEDURES
DEBRIEFING
As a result of unit sectoring, personnel assignments and the overall complexity of a hazardous materials
incident, personnel and agencies operating at an incident may be aware of only that information pertinent
to their duties during the incident. Incident debriefing is the process of disseminating all information
gathered at the emergency scene to the affected individuals and agencies. It is the responsibility of the IC
to ensure a complete and timely debriefing at every incident. Incident debriefing consists of:
MATERIAL HAZARD ASSESSMENT
All personnel and outside agencies whose duties and assignments placed them within the Warm-Zone at
any time during the incident shall be fully informed as to the hazardous materials present, their health
hazards, and the signs and symptoms of exposure.
SITE EVALUATION
The HMO shall assess the incident site so as to provide affected agencies and/or property owners with
information as to the environmental condition, health hazards, or other safety issues concerning the site
at the conclusion of HMRT actions. The HMRT shall not vacate any incident site that presents a health
or environmental hazard without informing the responsible property owner and/or governmental agencies
of site conditions.
DAMAGED, CONTAMINATED DISPOSED EOUIIPMENT
The HMO shall ensure a complete listing is made of all equipment disposed of, in need of further off-site
decontamination and/or damaged. Although the HMRT cannot require spillers and/or property owners to
replace or reimburse the HMRT for equipment and materials utilized, the HMO shall provide the
owner/spiller with a list of equipment and materials utilized and request replacement. For incidents
involving transfer of site operations to DEC and/or an environmental contractor, the HMO shall provide
this list to the responsible party of the agency.
All contaminated equipment requiring further off-site decontamination shall be packaged by the HMRT
for handling and removed from site. All materials to be disposed shall be packaged by the HMRT and
remain on-site for disposal by the owner/spiller, governmental agency, or environmental contractor for
proper disposal.

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INCIDENT SUMMARIZATION
The HMO is responsible to provide the Incident Commander with a complete summary of the incident,
including:
*
Materials involved and their quantities
*
Estimated amount of material released
*
Actions of the HMRT
*
Current site conditions
*
Need for further site remediation
*
Any exposures and/or injuries to personnel and civilians
POST INCIDENT ANALYSIS
As soon as possible after closure of an incident, the HMRT shall conduct a post incident analysis. The
purpose of this analysis is to establish a clear picture of the emergency response operation for further
study. The extent of the Post Incident Analysis is dependent upon the scope and severity of the incident.
Major incidents will include a written analysis while incidents considered minor in nature may require
only a verbal analysis. In all cases, the analysis shall focus on four key topics.
COMMAND AND CONTROL
*
*
*

Was command established and sectors organized per SOP?
Did information flow from operations personnel to Incident Command?
Did communications flow from Incident Command to operations personnel?

TACTICAL OPERATIONS
*
*
*

Were the tactical options ordered by the Incident Commander implemented by the HMRT
effectively?
What worked?
What did not work?

RESOURCES
*
*
*

Were resources adequate to perform the job?
Are improvements or new equipment needed?
Was the level of personnel training adequate?

SUPPORT SERVICES
*
*

Were support services received from other organizations adequate?
What is required to bring support to the desired level?

75

SECTION 13
TRAINING
INITIAL TRAINING AT TIME OF ASSIGNMENT
All personnel assigned to the HMRT are required to complete a minimum of 24 hours of annual training
in hazardous materials response. Prior to successful completion of the 24 hours training, the HMRT
member shall be assigned an on-site role not requiring Technician Certification. It is the responsibility of
the HMO to ensure the expediency and adequacy of a new members training and certification.
ANNUAL IN-SERVICE TRAINING
All HMRT members are required to undergo a minimum of 24 hours per year in hazardous materials
emergency response training. The annual training requirements are categorized to ensure all HMRT
members receive sufficient training in the multiple facets of hazardous materials emergency response.
The required areas of training are as follows:
SAFETY

1 Hour

- Safety Plans
- Control Zones
- Heat Stress
- Chemical Exposure Signs/Treatment
HAZARD CLASSES

1 Hour

- DOT Hazard Classes
- UN Hazard Categories
IDENTIFICATION

1 Hour

- Placards
- Military Markings
- NFPA 704
- Identifying Unknowns
STANDARDS & REGULATIONS

1 Hour

- OSHA 1910.120
- NEPA 471
- NFPA 472
- Local Emergency Response Plan
INCIDENT MANAGEMENT

2 Hours
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- Incident Command System
- Outside Resources
- EMS
- Sector Operations
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

2 Hours

- PPE Selection
- PPE Donning, Doffing, and Use
- PPE Care and Maintenance
- PPE Limitations
HAZARD ANALYSIS / RISK ASSESSMENT
- Analysis of Chemical & Physical Properties of a Substance
- Assessment of Risk Presented by:
* Container Involved
* Nature of Stress
* Potential Behavior
* Danger Zone
* Available Resources
* Exposure Potential

2 Hours

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

2 Hours

- Monitoring Equipment
- Identification Equipment
- Absorbents
- Hand Tools
- Patching and Plugging Equipment
- Function Specific Equipment
RESOURCING

2 Hours

- Computer/Cameo
- Atmospheric Modeling
- MSDS’s
- Reference Library
CONTAINER DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION

1 Hour

- Drums
- Cylinders
- Carboys
- Boxes /Bags / Cans /Bottles
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- Tank Cars
- Tank Trucks
- Fixed Tanks
- Intermodal Containers
- Piping
CONFINEMENT/CONTAINMENT TECHNIQUES
- Diking/Diverting
- Patching/Plugging
- Pressure Reduction
- Vapor Reduction
- Neutralization /Absorption
- Over packing
DECONTAMINATION

2 Hours

2 Hours

- Site Selection
- Management
- Methods
INCIDENT TERMINATION PROCEDURES

1 Hour

- Documentation
- Site Transfer
- Debriefing
- Critique
CHEMISTRY

1 Hour

PRE-INCIDENT PLANNING
ATMOSPHERIC MONITORING

1 Hour
2 Hours

- Oxygen content
- Flammability
- Toxicity
- Radioactivity
- Confined Space
TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION
All HMRT members are encouraged to take and maintain Hazardous Materials Technician Certification
for the duration of their assignment to the HMRT. Certification and recertification is accomplished
through a combination written exam and practical skills demonstrations.

78

ADVANCED HAZMAT TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION
All HMRT officers and members are encouraged to take and maintain Advanced Hazardous Materials
Technician Certification for the duration of their assignment to the HMRT.

79

SECTION 14
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDLINES
IDENTIFYING UNKNOWNS
Response to incidents involving unidentified hazardous materials presents the HMRT with potentially
the most dangerous of all situations. Many of these types of incidents involve the HMRT response to
unidentified odors or unexplained illnesses presenting little cause for serious concern for the health and
safety of response personnel. However, incidents involving the release, or potential release, of a
hazardous chemical of unknown identity does pose a serious health and safety risk to response personnel
until positive identification of the material is made.
Only after a material is positively identified can a proper hazard analysis and risk assessment be
completed and sound decisions made as to the health and safety of the HMRT and other responders. The
HMRT shall consider all hazardous chemicals as unidentified until such time as the HMO has obtained
sufficient information and evidence to determine, with a high level of certainty, the identity of the
material. The HMRT shall not depend solely upon a single source of information as a means of
positively identifying a substance unless that source is deemed reliable. Examples of reliable sources
include; shipping papers, trained witnesses, direct reading instruments, and original container labels.
Information obtained from sources considered unreliable may be utilized in the identification effort but
shall not be considered a sole means for identification. Examples of unreliable sources include; placards,
senses, untrained witnesses and container types.
The HMRT shall utilize the procedure as described in this section when confronted with an unidentified
material. (This procedure excludes responses to unidentified odors, etc.) The need for the entire
procedure to be implemented is incident specific, as the HMO may determine sufficient information and
evidence exists to identify the substance at any time during the identification process. Once identification
has been made, the HMO shall perform an accurate hazard analysis and risk assessment and the HMRT
can proceed to the mitigation phase of the incident response.
PRELIMINARY CONTROL ZONES SHALL BE ESTABLISHED
The HMRT shall establish preliminary control zones immediately. When confronted with an unidentified
material, the establishment of these control zones shall be done in a conservative manner and based upon
information that is immediately presented to the HMRT upon arrival at the site. As information and
evidence is gathered and/or conditions change, the HMRT shall reevaluate the established control zones
and modify them as necessary throughout the duration of the incident. Information that may be utilized
by the HMRT in establishing preliminary control zones include, but may not be limited to location,
weather, quantity, physical state, hazard indications as well as direct reading instruments.

LOCATION- The location of the incident, whether within a facility, in a roadway, or in an empty lot,
shall be considered by the HMRT as to the probable or possible material involved.
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WEATHER- The current and unexpected weather conditions shall be considered when establishing
control zones. Wind, rain, and air temperature will influence a materials dispersion pattern and
characteristics. Although the weather’s affect will vary dependent on the material involved and the
method of release, the HMRT shall consider the weather’s effect on typical dispersion models when
establishing preliminary control zones for an unidentified material.
QUANTITY- The quantity of a potential or actual release shall be considered by the HMRT when
establishing preliminary control zones.
PHYSICAL STATE- The physical state of an unknown material can generally be determined through the
type of container. The appearance of the release shall also be considered by the HMRT. Preliminary
control zones will be greatly influenced by the material whether it’s in a gaseous, vaporous, liquid or
solid state.
HAZARD INDICATIONS- Any indications as to the materials hazards that present themselves to the
HMRT upon arrival shall be utilized by the HMRT in establishing preliminary control zones. This may
include vapor clouds, fire and or odors.
DIRECT READING INSTRUMENTS- Upon establishing control zones, the HMRT shall immediately
utilize direct reading instruments to measure radiation and flammability along the established “Hot
Zone” perimeter.
INFORMATION AND EVIDENCE PRIOR TO ENTERING THE “HOT ZONE”
After preliminary control zones have been established, the HMRT shall begin the identification process.
Every attempt shall be made to secure as much information and evidence as possible to assist in material
identification prior to any entry into the “Hot Zone”. Information as to its identity may be secured from
the following sources without entering the established “Hot Zone”.
MARKINGS Labels, placards, stencils, or other markings shall be utilized to the extent possible
in efforts to establish a materials identity.
WITNESSES Trained witnesses, such as shippers, facility employees, etc. as well as untrained
witnesses, such as bystanders, shall be interrogated as to the materials identity when available.
DOCUMENTS Documents such as shipping papers, inventory lists, MSDS's etc. shall be utilized
when available to assist in identification.
CONTACTS identification.

Shippers and/or spillers shall be contacted when possible for assistance in

APPEARANCE & ODOR - The materials appearance and/or odor shall be utilized when possible to
assist the HMRT in identification.
LOCATION The location of the material shall be considered if pertinent in assisting with the
identification process
CONTAINER The container(s) type and design characteristics shall be considered by the HMRT
in the identification process

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RECONNAISSANCE ENTRY
PPE & CPC
If a reconnaissance entry into the “Hot Zone” is required prior to positive identification, the HMRT shall
select personal protective equipment and chemical protective clothing based upon information obtained
prior to entry. If additional information is obtained during entry that suggests the PPE and/or CPC
utilized is inadequate, the entry shall be immediately aborted. The following considerations for PPE/CPC
selection and use shall be strictly adhered to by the HMRT during reconnaissance entry.
PROTECTION LEVELS- Level A protection shall be utilized in all cases with even the remote chances
of an airborne hazard. All reconnaissance entries into “HOT ZONES” involving unidentified gases or
liquids shall require the use of Level A protection. In addition, Level A protection shall be utilized for
reconnaissance entries into “HOT ZONES” involving unidentified solids with the potential for
sublimation and/or airborne dust.
PPE/CPC FAILURE- Members of the entry team, as well as all HMRT members, shall be alert for signs
of PPE/CPC failure. Upon any sign of PPE/CPC failure the entry shall be terminated immediately.
SAFETY PLAN
The HMSO shall develop a site safety plan for all reconnaissance entries. The plan shall account for all
health and safety concerns associated with working with unidentified materials including personnel
decontamination.
MONITORING
During reconnaissance entry, the entry team shall monitor continuously for flammability and
radioactivity.
RADIOACTIVITY- Entry teams shall wear radiation badges (If available) and dosimeters while
performing reconnaissance. In addition the entry team shall monitor for radioactivity through the
duration of the entry. If upon entry, a reading of 1 mr/hr is reached, the entry team shall note the reading
location and notify the HMO. The reconnaissance entry shall not proceed beyond the point of 1 mr/hr
without clear approval of the HMO and the HMSO.
FLAMMABILITY - The entry team shall monitor for flammability throughout the duration of the entry.
If, during entry, a reading of 10% LEL is reached, the entry team shall note the location and notify the
HMO. The reconnaissance entry team shall not proceed beyond the point of 30% LEL without the clear
approval of the HMO and the HMSO.

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OBSERVATIONS
Entry team personnel shall attempt to gather as much information as possible through close observation
of the site. Information such as markings, labels, container specifications, material appearance, and
visual effects of the material on immediate surroundings may all provide information as to the materials
identity. Such information shall be relayed to the Hazmat Operations Post for documentation and review.
If any information ascertained by the entry team indicates an inadequacy in PPE and/or CPC or indicates
an unacceptable risk of physical danger to personnel, the HMSO shall be responsible for immediately
aborting the entry. Personnel shall not perform any invasive actions in an attempt to identify a material
without clear approval of the HMO and HMSO.
SAMPLING
Sampling of an unidentified material for identification purposes may be utilized if observations fail to
provide an accurate identification. Entry team personnel shall utilize non-invasive sampling methods
when possible and shall not open, or in any way move or alter a container, without clear approval of the
HMO and HMSO. Non-invasive sampling may be performed through the sampling of escaping gases
and/or vapors, or the sampling of residues and/or spills of liquids, and/or solids. If sufficient sampling
cannot be accomplished through non-invasive means, it may be necessary to open, move, and/or alter a
container. A close and thorough inspection of the container and any visible contents or residues shall be
performed prior to handling a container in any way. This inspection is necessary to ascertain the
structural stability of the container and to attempt to identify the presence of explosive or shock sensitive
materials and/or residues.
If it is necessary to remove a quantity of material from the container for testing, entry team personnel
shall remove only the minimum anticipated quantity necessary to perform the desired testing. If a
quantity is to be removed from the immediate incident site (Hot-Zone) for testing by the HMRT or an
outside agency, personnel shall ensure the material is sealed in a clean container prior to leaving the HotZone.
Use of the HAZMAT IQ system may be able to assist.

83

TESTING
Tests performed by HMRT personnel in an attempt to identify the material and/or its hazards shall be
conducted in a controlled, safe fashion. Tests for the presence of the following materials may be
performed by entry team personnel immediately at the incident site.
LIQUIDS
GASES/VAPORS
* Lead
* Formaldehyde
* Carbon Dioxide
* Organic Solvents
* Ammonia
* Phosphine
* Hydrogen Sulfide
* Low Class Hydrocarbons
* Chlorine
* Nitrites
* High Class Hydrocarbons
* Benzene
* PCBs
* Petroleum Distillates
* Toluene
* Chlorinated Solvents
* Hydrogen Sulfide
* Phosgene
* Oxidizers
* Nitrogen Dioxide
* Ethyl Alcohol
*Caustics/Corrosives
* Hydrogen Cyanide
* Stoddard Solvent
* Halogens
* Carbon Disulfide
* Ozone
* Fluorides
* Vinyl Chloride
* Phenol
* Hydrogen Chloride
* Ethyl Acetate
* Acetic Acid
* Trichloroethylene
* Acetone
* Amines
* Ethylene Oxide
* Ethyl Ether
* Sulfur Dioxide
* Hydrazine
In addition, entry team personnel may remove a sample from the immediate site for testing by HMRT
personnel utilizing the Chemical Classification System or for testing off-site by outside agencies.
IDENTIFICATION
After identification of the material(s) has been completed, the HMRT shall reassess the site based on the
identified materials hazards. The HMSO shall reevaluate the established control zones and the HMRT
may then proceed to the mitigation phase of operations.

84

SECTION 15
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
OFF LOADING / TRANSFERRING FLAMMABLE/COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS
The offloading or transferring of flammable or combustible liquids is a mitigation technique often
performed by the HMRT. The greatest concern for the HMRT when performing this operation is an
uncontrolled ignition source. The HMRT recognizes the need to maintain control of all ignition sources
at incidents involving flammable or combustible liquids. As such, the HMRT has instituted four (4) welldefined procedures in its efforts to provide for the safety of response personnel.
The following procedures shall be strictly adhered to by the HMRT when mitigating incidents involving
the transferring or offloading of flammable or combustible liquids:
1.

The HMRT shall maintain strict control of the hazard area. This shall include control of
all recognized ignition sources, as well as limiting access to only HMRT members or
HMRT authorized personnel in proper personal protective equipment.

2.

Control of flammable vapors emitted from spills of volatile liquids prior to offloading or
transferring operations. This shall be accomplished through retention, foam blanketing,
emulsification, and/or absorption as required. Monitoring of hazard area for flammable
vapors shall be performed if conditions warrant.

3.

Bonding and grounding of containers prior to offloading or transferring of flammable or
combustible liquids to control static electricity. Bonding and grounding is required for
prevention of a static electric arc or discharge causing an uncontrolled ignition source
during operations involving pumping, siphoning, pouring, and/or agitation of liquids.

4.

Fire protection for response personnel operating within the hazard area, The
HMRT shall ensure adequate protection against fire is provided for personnel performing
operations within the hazard area. This may include, portable
extinguishers, handlines, and/or foam as required. Fire protection operations shall be
manned and capable of immediate intervention whenever response personnel are
operating within the hazard area.

OPERATIONS INVOLVING GASOLINE OR DIESEL FUEL SPILLS/LEAKS
Gasoline or diesel fuel leaks or spills requiring the assistance of Fire Department units and/or the HMRT
shall be mitigated according to the following procedure.

85

1.

When there is a call for a fuel or diesel spill or leak, companies who are equipped to handle such
incidents may respond with three or four qualified personnel and mitigate a fuel leak. However, if
indicated by dispatch information, the HMRT may be asked to respond at the discretion of the
shift officer or company officer on scene.

2.

If upon arrival of the HMRT, the HMO determines the need for a 1 3/4” handline to provide fire
protection for response personnel is not required, the responding Engine Company (if applicable)
may be returned to service. The determination of their need in mitigation efforts shall be at the
discretion of the HMO.

3.

Spilled fuel shall be contained and controlled to prevent its movement into sewers, storm drains,
and/or environmentally sensitive areas.

4.

If flammable vapors are sufficient to constitute a safety risk to response personnel, actions shall
be taken to eliminate or reduce the vapor concentration. This may be accomplished though
emulsification, absorption and/or foam blanketing operations.

5.

DEC notifications shall be made as follows;
Gasoline
Greater than 5 gallons leaked into the ground -

Response Request

Diesel Fuel
Greater than 1 gallon un-recovered spill Greater than 2 gallon leaked into the ground -

Spill Notification
Response Request

6.

HMRT personnel operating within the hazard area shall be in full turnout gear with protective
hoods.

7.

A twenty (20) pound dry chemical extinguisher shall be placed in position and manned while
response personnel are operating within the hazard area.

8.

If conditions warrant, a 1 3/4” handline shall be placed, charged and manned by the assisting
Engine Company. The need and placement of this line shall be at the discretion of the HMO.

9.

Prior to offloading/transferring operations, the vehicle/tank shall be bonded to the receiving
container with bonding cables. This shall include vehicle-to-safety can as well as saddle tank-tosaddle tank when applicable.
When possible, the bonded units shall be grounded with a single ground cable. This can be
accomplished by use of sewer/water pipe, guardrail, signpost, or use of short ground rod. Due to
the nature of operation, optimal grounding methods may not be feasible.

10.

86

11.

If, upon completion of operations, fuel is to be deposited in fuel drums, a safety can shall be
bonded to the receiving drum during pouring operations.

12.

Wherever the fuel is deposited, it shall be placed in the appropriately marked containers, i.e.
diesel / gasoline.

87

SECTION 16
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
INCIDENTS INVOLVING RADIATION
Incidents involving radioactive materials present the HMRT with hazards unique to this type of incident.
Among these hazards are:
*
*
*
*

Hazards are undetectable without specialized equipment
Public apprehension and anxiety
First responder misconceptions as to the degree of hazard and
appropriate protective actions
Radiation may cause chronic problems with little, if any, acute
symptoms

Definitions:
* Roentgen: The roentgen measures the energy produced by gamma radiation in a cubic centimeter of
air. It is usually abbreviated with the capital letter "R". A milliroentgen, or "mR", is equal to one onethousandth of a roentgen. An exposure of 50 roentgens would be written "50 R".
* Rad: Or, Radiation Absorbed Dose recognizes that different materials that receive the same exposure
may not absorb the same amount of energy. A rad measures the amount of radiation energy transferred to
some mass of material, typically humans. One roentgen of gamma radiation exposure results in about one
rad of absorbed dose.
* Rem: Or, Roentgen Equivalent Man is a unit that relates the dose of any radiation to the biological
effect of that dose. To relate the absorbed dose of specific types of radiation to their biological effect, a
"quality factor" must be multiplied by the dose in rad, which then shows the dose in rems. For gamma
rays and beta particles, 1 rad of exposure results in 1 rem of dose.
The U.S. Department of Transportation classified radioactive materials into three categories:
• Radioactive I: Materials which register 0.5 millirems per hour or less on the external surface of
the container.
• Radioactive II: Materials which register less than 1 millirem per hour at 3 feet from external
points of the container.
• Radioactive III: Materials which register more than 50 millirems per hour at the external
surface or more than 1 millirem 3 feet away from the package surface.

88

Normal (natural) background exposures rates for gamma radiation are 0.01 to 0.02 milliroentgen per
hour (mR/hr) and vary from region to region. 20 -60 CPM (counts per minute) is also considered normal.
New York State protocols dictate the New York State Health Department, in conjunction with the
County Health Department is responsible for the mitigation of incidents involving nuclear materials, with
or without the uncontrolled release of ionizing radiation. As such, the primary objectives of the HMRT
are:
*
*

*

*

Isolate the location through the establishment and strict control of a Hot
Zone
Perform rescue operations within the Hot Zone if warranted
Monitor all civilian and emergency response personnel involved for
possible contamination
Ensure the integrity of contamination control through decontamination of
contaminated personnel and equipment

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Hazardous materials team members may utilize the following personal protective equipment;
*
*
*
*
*

Tyvec coveralls
Medical gloves
Neoprene outer gloves
Bunker boots or Haz-Mat boots
SCBA

All seams shall be taped. A film badge, if available, shall be worn within the Tyvek coverall and a
“Rados” pocket dosimeter shall be clipped to SCBA for ease of reading.
HOT ZONE ESTABLISHMENT / CONTAMINANT ISOLATION
The HMRT shall utilize the following procedure in establishing a Hot-Zone and in isolating and
controlling contamination;
*
The HMRT shall approach the site from the upwind position as well as from a safe
distance as determined by the HMO

•

*

The HMRT shall immediately survey the selected position utilizing available
equipment (i.e. Ludlum 3, GR-135, AreaRAE, RADOS) to ensure the location is
free of ionizing radiation

*

The HMSO shall maintain an exposure log for all members

Two HMRT members working together will verify or establish boundaries using
the Ludlum 3 and the GR-135. Survey completely around the
89

suspected area. Due to “streaming” boundaries may not be in a simple circumference around source.
*

The Hot-Zone boundaries shall be established at 1.0 mR/hr

*
Surfaces registering 100 CPM above background shall also be considered "Hot" and shall
be isolated.
*
Surface contamination identified with the Ludlum 3shall be identified as Beta or Alpha
through the covering of the pancake probe with a sheet of paper. (Paper will shield Alpha causing
a reduction or elimination of CPM readings from an Alpha emitter)
*

The Hot-Zone shall be clearly demarcated with scene tape

*
The ability of radioactive particles to be carried by wind shall be considered when
establishing Hot-Zone boundaries
The HMRT’s primary purpose will be to contain contamination by setting and verifying
boundaries around the material. However, at the discretion of the incident commander, additional
actions which aid in the containment of radioactive spills such as covering wet spills with
absorbents, dry spills with moist absorbents may be performed.
**
The CDV 700 may be substituted for the Ludlum 3if the radiation material is known not to
be an alpha emitter 0.5 mR/ /hr above background is the limit for b g contamination using the
CDV 700. There are several CDV 700 kits at Station 3.
**
All detectors shall be used on the highest scale first to prevent saturation of the detector.
Proceed to the lowest scale possible to detect the lowest level of radioactivity.
RESCUE OPERATIONS
The HMRT shall perform rescue operations within the Hot Zone provided the HMSO deems it is
safe to do so. Except in cases requiring immediate rescue action for life safety, rescue operations
shall be conducted only after a proper action plan has been established, a safety plan is established,
entry and backup teams are prepared and briefed, and decon has been established.
In cases requiring immediate rescue action for life safety, it will be the decision of the incident
commander as to the viability of a rescue and the HMSO as to the safety of the rescue team. Only
if the rescue is deemed viable and it is deemed an immediate rescue can be safely performed, shall
the HMRT perform such rescue without the prerequisites listed above.
At no time shall emergency responders (including the HMRT) or any other fire personnel be
exposed to more than 25 rem per incident.
90

DETECTION EQUIPMENT
Exploranuim- measures Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Nuclide and is a dose rate meter. This displays the
measurement in MICRO- Roentgen and will alarm at 2000 micro-roentgen/hr. which is equal to 2
mR/hr. The Exploranium needs to be tested on the sample provided in the base charger. The orange boot
needs to be connected to the bottom of the unit prior to being used for detection. Be sure to take an initial
back ground reading before entry. A normal back ground reading is up to 100 counts per second (CPS)
and up to 10 MICRO-Roentgen/Hr.
Ludlum 3 measures Alpha, Beta, and Gamma and is a contamination meter. Normal background
radiation is 20-60 CPM (counts per minute).
Area RAE measures Gamma radiation.
RADOS personal dosimeter measures Gamma and X-ray and measures in milliroentgen (mR). They will
alarm at 1 mR/h dose rate as well as 10 R (roentgen) total dose. These should be attached to each entry
team member and “zeroed” prior to entry.
CIVILIAN & UNPROTECTED RESPONDER DECONTAMINATION
Decontamination shall be required of all personnel and civilians who may have come in contact with
radioactive materials. If surface contamination is present, decontamination personnel must use SCBA. To
determine the need for decontamination, the decon team shall perform a whole body “frisk”. The “frisk”
is performed by two personnel with one manipulating the Ludlum 3 pancake probe while the other reads
the instrument. The “frisk” is completed as follows:
While a non-contaminated “probe holder” holds probe pointing towards the ground and away from the
source of radioactivity (minimize background levels), the individual to be frisked slowly (2” per sec.)
moves hands under probe. Survey both top and bottom surface of hands. The “observer” will, at all
times, watch the scale. If during the whole body frisk, the Ludlum 3detects 100 CPM above background
than there is contamination present. After frisking the hands, start at the individuals head and work down
to the feet surveying all areas. Be sure not to contact the surface or probe contamination may occur. Pay
careful attention to the areas around the mouth and throat. High readings here may indicate the victim
has internal contamination by inhalation or ingestion. Survey the bottoms of the feet. If no contamination
is present, the person is clean and may exit the area.
Note: If injured, cover open wounds to minimize further contamination, place in body bag to minimize
the spread of Ram, and transport to appropriate medical facility.

91

HMRT DECONTAMINATION
The following procedure shall be utilized when decontaminating properly protected HMRT members and
other responders.
*
*
*
*
*

*
*

Carefully remove effected clothing (Maintain SCBA use throughout Decon)
Perform frisk, if less than 100 CPM above background exit area (may remove
SCBA)
If contamination is present, decon area using tape by blotting surface.
Perform frisk, if less than 100 CPM above background exit area (may remove
SCBA)
If contamination remains, remove all clothing and SCBA harness (keep face piece
in place). Shower using luke warm water. After rinsing may remove face piece.
Minimize water use; avoid allowing water into eyes and mouth.
Perform frisk, if less than 100 CPM above background exit area (may remove
SCBA)
If still contaminated or if internal contamination is suspected, dress in Tyvec
coveralls and have patient transported for further decontamination.

RADIATION PENETRATION AND SHIELDING
Time, Distance and Shielding (TDS) are different ways to be protected from radiation.

92

PERSONNEL EXPOSURE INFORMATION
Following any potential exposure, documentation on personnel, radiation amount and time exposed shall
be documented and kept by the fire department. Below are guidelines for exposure amounts. Following
development the exposure will be noted on the Personnel Exposure Log and the individual notified of the
dose received.

Radiation Dose Rate Guidance DOSE
RATE
Recommendations
Contaminated Persons

Values

2 x Background Reading
(cpm or μR/h or mR/h)
5 x Background Reading
(cpm or μR/h or mR/h)

Limit of Radioactive
“Plume” on the
Ground or Air
Establish Hot Line

1 mR/h to 10 mR/h
(0.001 R/h to 0.010 R/h)

CAUTION
Work in Hot Zone

Hot Line up to 10
R/h (up to 10,000 mR/h)
10 R/h

CAUTION - DANGER
Turn-Around Dose Rate
For NON-Life-Saving
DANGER
Turn-Around Dose Rate
for LIFE-SAVING

100 R/h

DANGER
Life-Saving, Very Short Duration Only (Informed
Volunteers)
GRAVE DANGER

DHS/FEMA and EPA Emergency Worker
Dose Guidelines Dose limit
(whole body)
5,000 mrem
10,000 mrem

5 rem
10 rem

25,000 mrem

25 rem

More than
25,000 mrem

More than
25 rem

More than
100 R/h

Emergency Action
Dose Guidelines
Activity performed
All activities.
Protecting major
property.
Lifesaving or
protection of large
populations.
Lifesaving or
protection of large
populations,
Only by volunteers
who understand the
risks.
93

Scale
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

Rems/Hour
10 µRems
100 µRems
1 mRems
10 mRems
100 mRems
1 Rem
10 Rems
100 Rems
500 Rems

Sieverts/Hour
0.1 µSv
1 µSv
10 µSv
100 µSv
1 mSv
10 mSv
100 mSv
1 Sv
5 Sv

Danger Level after 1 Hour
Background radiation
Low level radiation
Daily human limit RATE
Do not stay here
Substantial exposure
Strong exposure
Extreme danger
50% chance of death
CDV-715 highest scale

INCIDENT TERMINATION
Upon completion of containment, setting and verifying boundaries, and personnel decontamination, the
incident will be turned over to the County Health Department as an agent for the State Health Department.
It is not the position of the Auburn Fire Dept. /Cayuga County/Hazmat Team to take custody of any
materials. This includes AFD property that has been exposed to radioactive material if decontamination
was not successful or practical.
TACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
FIRE
*
Most radioactive isotopes are metals and will be difficult to extinguish.
Use a class “D” extinguisher or cover with sand to contain.
*

Fire in rooms containing RAM should be fought using standard firefighting SOP’s keeping
in mind that Shielding and packaging for the RAM will probably be damaged. Time in the
area should be minimized and distance maintained.

*

Minimize the use of water, run off should be treated as radioactive and contained with dykes
and natural boundaries.

*

Smoke may contain radioactive particle so surface contamination is probable. Personnel
decontamination and isolation of contaminated areas may be required by the HMRT.

INDOOR EMERGENCIES
*
*

Isolate room, establish boundaries.
Secure ventilation system to minimize spread. Inspect fans, filters, ductwork for contamination

94

SECTION 17
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
BIOLOGICAL INCIDENTS
Biological incidents are categorized as Bio hazardous Agent Incidents and Biological Waste Incidents.
These incidents present the HMRT with very different degrees of severity and potential dangers. Bio
hazardous Agent Incidents are described as releases or potential releases of Bacterial agents, fungal
agents, Viral, Rickettsia and Chlamydial agents, and parasitic agents into the surrounding environment.
These materials may be airborne and may present the HMRT and the public with a high degree of
danger. Incidents involving biological wastes are described as incidents involving body fluids and/or
tissues or materials suspected of being contaminated with blood and/or body fluids that may be
potentially infectious. Biological wastes are not generally airborne and typically are only infectious
through direct contact. These incidents present the HMRT and the public with little danger when
properly handled.
BIOHAZARDOUS AGENT INCIDENTS
The HMRT shall treat all incidents involving bio hazardous agents with the assumption that the materials
have been released and are highly dangerous and/or infectious until qualified personnel from the County
Health Department, NYS Health Department, and Center for Disease Control (CDC), or Military have
confirmed otherwise. This action is necessary given the HMRT’s inability to detect the presence of
airborne micro-organisms and the team’s limited expertise and experience in biological materials. As a
guide to determine the severity of the threat to the public and responders, Appendix Ill of this text
includes a list of bio hazardous agents categorized on the basis of their potential hazard. The HMRT'S
primary purpose at an incident involving a bio hazardous agent is to establish and secure the immediate
site, ensure proper decontamination of potentially exposed civilians and response personnel, and to
perform life-saving actions within the Hot-Zone. It is neither the responsibility nor the intent of the
HMRT to secure and/or package bio hazardous agents except as necessary for life safety. The NYS
Health Department, and the County Health Department acting as their agent, is the lead agency in the
response to, and mitigation of, a bio hazardous agent incident (except in the case of military ordinance or
explosive material). The HMRT shall provide the lead agency with support and resources as necessary to
provide for the protection of responders and civilians.
HOT ZONE ESTABLISHMENT
Upon confirmation of a release or potential release of a bio hazardous agent, the HMRT shall
immediately contact the CDC at (404) 633-5313 for information as to the recommended isolation area
and guidance in personnel protection and decontamination. The HMRT shall establish the Hot-Zone
perimeter utilizing baffler tape and/or natural boundaries (i.e. building, floor, etc.). The HMRT shall
consider the potential movement of airborne agents via a buildings ventilation system when establishing
control zones for interior incidents and shall immediately request air handling systems be secured if it is
safe to do so. The HMRT shall not enter the Hot-

95

Zone except for life safety reasons and shall only do so in full protective clothing. The HMRT shall not
perform reconnaissance entries to ascertain identification. If positive identification cannot be established
without entering the Hot-Zone, the HMRT shall maintain conservative control zones and secure the site
until the arrival of the lead agency.
LEAD AGENCY
After contacting the CDC for guidance, the HMRT shall contact the Cayuga County Health Department
and request their response to the incident site. The HMRT may contact the Health Department directly or
through the 911 dispatch center. All information known in relation to the materials identity, quantity,
release status, and exposures shall be provided to the Health Department when contacted. Upon arrival of
the Health Department, the HMRT shall inform the Fire Department Commander as to the status of the
incident and await further direction.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIMENT
HMRT members involved in Hot-Zone entry for any reason shall utilize Level-A protection unless a
qualified individual confirms a lower PPE requirement. Response personnel providing decontamination
shall also utilize Level-A protection unless a qualified individual confirms a lower PPE requirement.
DECONTAMINATION
Decontamination of tools and non-absorbent protective equipment shall be completed utilizing a 10%
calcium hypochlorite and water solution. All potentially contaminated civilians and response personnel
shall also undergo a personal shower with an antibacterial soap prior to being medically evaluated.
Response personnel shall maintain the SCBA face piece in-place during decontamination and showering.
Any contaminated porous materials that cannot be properly decontaminated on-site shall be disposed of
or shall be packaged for off-site decontamination as recommended by the Health Department
LIFE SAVING ACTIONS
Lifesaving actions includes, but may not be limited to, rescue from within the Hot-Zone and containment
of the material. Rescues from within the Hot-Zone shall be performed by the HMRT according to
standard operations within Hot-Zones.
Packaged quantities of bio hazardous agents are typically limited to 50 ml within a containment system
during shipment however quantities may be stored in 1000 ml vessels and shipped 4 vessels per package.
The small quantities typically encountered present little viable opportunity for containment of a spill or
release. However, the HMRT may determine an urgent need to take offensive actions to prevent or
reduce the impact of a release on civilians and responders. Only with careful consideration of the risks to
the HMRT and with the clear approval of the incident commander shall the HMRT take offensive actions
at incidents involving bio hazardous agents.

96

BIOLOGICAL WASTE INCIDENTS
Incidents involving biological wastes requiring the response of the HMRT typically involve the illegal
dumping or improper disposal of potentially infectious materials. These materials may include bandages,
clothing, medical paraphernalia or human tissue and body parts. The HMRT shall utilize extreme caution
when handling these materials to prevent personal exposure.
HANDLING AND PACKAGING
The HMRT shall not handle any biological waste materials with their hands. Forceps, shovels, etc. shall
be utilized to handle potentially infectious materials to provide personnel with the highest protection
possible. The HMRT shall package all potentially infectious materials in properly marked containers. All
sharps shall be placed in an approved sharps container for proper disposal. All non-sharps shall be
placed in a red bag marked infectious wastes for proper disposal.
DISPOSAL
The HMRT shall contact the Auburn Community Hospital for disposal of materials during their
operating hours. For disposal during evenings, weekends, and holidays the HMRT shall properly
package the material and transport it to the Fire Station for disposal through training, if the material
involved is in excess of a single bag, the Health Department shall be contacted for response and disposal.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
The HMRT shall wear disposable latex gloves as a minimum when handling biological wastes. The
HMSO shall determine the need for additional equipment such as Tyvek coveralls, eye and respiratory
protection, and/or boot covers based on site specific conditions.

97

SECTION 18
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
OPERATIONS IN POTENTIALLY FLAMMABLE ATMOSPHERES
The HMRT recognizes the hazards associated with operations involving potentially flammable
atmospheres. However, due to the nature of hazardous materials emergency response, the HMRT may at
times be required to operate within such an atmosphere. The HMRT has established operational
parameters and specific work practices in an effort to provide for the safety of personnel operating within
a potentially flammable atmosphere.
OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS
The HMRT shall continually monitor for flammability when operating at a site involving the release or
potential release of a known or suspected flammable liquid or gas as well as sites involving an unknown
material. Personnel entering a site shall inform the HMO and HMSO if a 10% LEL reading is indicated
by a Combustible Gas Indicator (CGI). Personnel shall not proceed beyond a CGI indication of 30% LEL
without the clear approval of the HMO and HMSO. HMRT personnel shall not operate in any
atmosphere indicating a level in excess of 60% LEL except for life saving actions.
WORK PRACTICES
The HMRT shall make every effort to control and/or eliminate ignition sources in and around potentially
flammable atmospheres. The following work practices shall be utilized when operating in or near a
potentially flammable atmosphere;
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*

Personnel shall utilize intrinsically safe or explosion proof instruments and equipment
Personnel shall not activate any switches nor connect or disconnect any electrical circuits
Personnel shall not utilize any instruments or equipment not maintained and inspected by the
HMRT regardless of its rating
Personnel shall utilize copper alloy non-sparking tools and/or polymer non-sparking tools
Personnel shall utilize full turnout gear w/hoods
The HMSO shall consider the use of flash protection, if available, based on site specific
conditions
Personnel operating within Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC) shall be kept as wet as feasible to
reduce the likelihood of static discharge
Personnel shall remain constantly aware of ignition sources from all possible sources, including
potential static discharge and potential sparks from striking tools or equipment

98

SECTION 19
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
FLARING OPERATIONS
The flaring of a flammable gas is performed in the event an uncontrollable leak involving a pressurized
container of a flammable gas is encountered. Flaring is the process of rapidly emptying or the reducing
the pressure within a compressed or liquefied flammable gas container through the controlled burning of
the contents. Controlled burning eliminates the potential for the accumulation of highly flammable
vapors in undesirable locations as well as providing for an expeditious mitigation of the incident
The key to a successful flaring operation is absolute control of the product flow and strict control of
ignition sources. If either of these two cannot be adequately accomplished, product flaring should not be
utilized as a means of mitigation.
Control of product flow shall be accomplished by the following methods;
1.

Ventilation of potential gas/vapor areas. The HMRT shall ensure that no areas of flammable
gas/vapor accumulation, with the potential for ignition, exist prior to beginning flaring operations.
This shall be accomplished through the use of a CGI to survey potential areas of accumulation
should conditions indicate a possibility of gas/vapor accumulation. If an area of concern is
located, the HMRT shall ensure its dispersion through the use of a hose line or other ventilation
means.

2.

Placement of the flaring operation upwind. The source of the flaring operation shall be placed
upwind, or crosswind as a minimum, to ensure gas/vapor escaping from the leaking container
cannot travel to the source of flaring and result in uncontrolled ignition. If the leak is of such
proportions or weather conditions are such that gas/vapor control cannot be assured, flaring shall
not be utilized.

3.

Constant manning of the control valve. The HMRT shall position a firefighter in full protective
clothing at the valve controlling the flow of gas/vapor to the point of flaring. The valve shall be
opened no more than two revolutions. This individual will remain constantly aware and observant
of the flaring operation and shall immediately close the control valve upon any indication of:
* An operational deficiency
* Any indication of loss of control of either ignition source or product flow
* Orders of the HMRT officer, Safety Officer, Or Incident Commander

4.

Atmospheric testing of areas surrounding the flaring operations. The HMRT shall perform
atmospheric testing during the flaring operation to ensure no accumulation of un-burnt
gases/vapors is accumulating to levels of concern downwind and low-lying areas.

99

Control of ignition sources shall be accomplished by the following methods:
1.

Control of potential area ignition sources. The HMRT shall free an area of appropriate size of all
potential ignition sources.

2.

The HMRT shall maintain strict control of the hazard area. This shall include control of all
recognized ignition sources, as well as limiting access to only HMRT members or HMRT
authorized personnel in proper personal protective equipment.

3.

Control of static discharge. The HMRT recognizes the potential for static discharge caused by the
flow of product from the container to the point of flaring. In an effort to control this, the HMRT
shall ensure the area and equipment is saturated prior to initiating product flow and shall ensure
the area and equipment is maintained wet through the use of a hose line or whatever means is
necessary.

4.

Use of a constant ignition source. The HMRT shall utilize a constant source of ignition, such as a
road flare, for the flaring operation. This shall ensure immediate re-ignition of the flammable
gas/vapor should an unexpected extinguishment occur and prevent an explosive accumulation of
flammable gas/vapor prior to re-ignition. The ignition source shall be secured to a long pole and
maintained in the immediate vicinity of the flaring after ignition. The ignition source shall be
constantly manned by a firefighter in full protective equipment.

The following additional procedures shall be adhered to ensure the safety of those performing the flaring
operation:
1. Constant monitoring during incidents when indicated. At incidents involving substantial
leakage from the container or other variables of concern to the HMRT officer, the HMRT shall initiate
constant site monitoring for a potentially flammable atmosphere. This monitoring shall be performed:
* In the immediate vicinity of the leaking container
* Downwind of the leaking container
* In the immediate area of personnel operating in the flaring zone
* Downwind of the flaring zone
* In areas dictating by the properties of the product (i.e. low areas, etc.)
2.
Control of container leak during flaring operations. If conditions dictate, the HMRT shall attempt
to control or slow the product leak prior to initiating flaring operations. If the leak cannot be controlled
adequately to prevent the potential accumulation of a flammable atmosphere in the vicinity of the
container during flaring operations, a hose line may be utilized to disperse the gases/vapors. However,
the HMRT must seriously consider all other mitigation options at incidents involving a flammable
gas/vapor leak that cannot be adequately controlled to ensure the safety of personnel prior to the
commencement of flaring operations.

100

3.

Personal protective equipment. All personnel operating in the area shall don full
protective clothing including hoods and gloves. Proximity clothing shall be worn by the
firefighter manning the ignition source in order to provide maximum protection in case of
a gas/vapor flash.

4.

Burning of liquid fuel at incidents involving liquefied gases. At incidents involving
liquefied gases, the HMRT shall burn the product as a liquid whenever possible. The
burning of liquid fuel will reduce the flaring time over 100X.
In cases involving portable cylinders, the flaring shall be initiated from the gaseous state
with the container inverted to burn liquid only after ignition has occurred. If the flaring is
to be immediately terminated during operations, the container shall be up righted to
convert the fuel take-off to gas prior to, or at the time of, closing the valve.

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SECTION 20
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
CONFINED SPACE OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES FOR THE HMRT
RESPONSE
Unless specifically directed otherwise, the HMRT shall respond to all requests for assistance at confined
space rescue operations with a full response. If any or all of the HMRT is unavailable to respond at the
time of dispatch, they shall make themselves available as soon as feasible and respond to the incident.
This is NOT intended to replace the current Confined Space Rescue Standard Operating Guideline.
INITIAL ACTIONS
The initial response shall be with the nearest Engine Company, Truck Company which includes Rescue
and the on duty Assistant Chief. The closest available ALS response transport agency shall commit at
least one ambulance to the Confined Space Rescue Team. The first arriving company shall communicate
with the bystanders and entrants to determine what has occurred and to the status of any trapped entrants.
No one shall enter the confined space until ALL companies have assembled at the scene and the
Assistant Chief has made the decision to effect a rescue.
If the need for the HMRT exists, the HMRT shall be under the direction of the Special Operations
Assistant Chief or the HAZMAT Captain and as such, the senior officer shall immediately report to the
Incident Commander for an incident overview and operational assignments. The HMRT shall function as
two distinct teams.
The two primary functions of the HMRT shall be to provide and maintain a safe atmosphere within and
around the confined space through ventilation and atmospheric monitoring and to initiate and maintain
control of all hazardous energies within the confined space through lockout/tag out. The HMRT shall
undertake one of these functions with the senior officer directly responsible for the team performing
atmospheric testing and ventilation. In addition to the functions described above, the senior HMRT
officer shall be responsible for providing the HMO with an assessment of the potential victim
survivability in those incidents involving the victim’s exposure to hazardous materials within the
confined space. This exposure may be in the form of a liquid, solid, residue, or airborne. The HMRT
senior officer shall utilize current atmospheric conditions, visual assessment of current conditions, and
HMRT reference materials as necessary to provide as expedient and accurate an assessment as possible.
ATMOSPHERIC MONITORING
The HMRT shall perform initial monitoring of the confined space and the immediate surrounding area as
soon as feasible. This monitoring shall be performed utilizing a 5 gas meter.

102

This monitoring shall provide information as to the flammability, oxygen content, and carbon monoxide
content of the atmosphere simultaneously. Any reading above 30%LEL shall preclude the continuation
of atmospheric monitoring, except as necessary to confirm the effectiveness of ventilation, and all other
activities in the immediate vicinity of the space until ventilation has reduced the flammability level
below 30%LEL.
While the initial monitoring is being undertaken the HMRT shall investigate as to any potential toxic
contaminants that may be present within the confined space. This shall be accomplished through review
of all available documents, including the entry permit, labels, process batch sheets, etc. and interviews of
facility personnel. The HMRT shall also consider inter-chemical reactions, chemical decomposition, and
substances that may have been brought into the space by entrants (i.e. cleaning solvents, adhesives, etc.).
If this investigation reveals the potential for an airborne hazardous substance that would not be registered
by the 5 gas meters, the HMRT shall utilize appropriate Draeger colorimetric tubes to determine
atmospheric hazards.
After initial monitoring is complete, the HMRT shall continuously monitor the space and surrounding
area throughout the duration of ventilation and rescue operations. Readings taken during ventilation shall
be compared to those taken prior to ventilation to ensure the effectiveness of the ventilation and to ensure
forced ventilation does not aggravate or worsen the survivability of the victim due to increasing the
evaporation of a residue. The HMRT senior officer shall advise the Rescue Group Officer as to the status
of the atmosphere and any potentially harmful aspects that still exist or have the potential to develop
during entry. If, at any time during the rescue operation, the HMRT determines the atmosphere has
degraded or is degrading in an uncontrolled fashion to an unacceptable level, he shall immediately notify
the Rescue Group Officer and the rescue shall be aborted.
The HMRT senior officer shall act only as an advisor as to the survival prospects of the victim and the
safety of the rescuers at incidents involving hazardous materials or hazardous atmospheres. The Rescue
Group Officer, with approval of the incident commander, shall determine the go or no-go status of the
rescue attempt.
VENTILATION
The HMRT shall be responsible for the ventilation of the confined space. This shall be performed as
necessary to ensure the safety of rescuers and the survivability of the victim. Continuous forced
ventilation shall be performed on all spaces unless specifically directed otherwise by the Rescue Group
Officer or atmospheric monitoring indicates ventilation results in a degradation of the atmosphere.
Ventilation shall attempt to control all current and potential atmospheric hazards within and around the
space. Should complete elimination of atmospheric hazards not be obtained through ventilation, the
HMRT senior officer shall advise the Rescue Group Officer as to acceptable contaminant levels. For
those spaces presenting no flammable or toxic atmosphere potential, the space shall be ventilated to the
extent necessary to ensure ample oxygen content for an unprotected victim and for the survival of
rescuers should a breathing apparatus failure occur. Ventilation may also be utilized in an effort to
provide a more tenable condition within the space should temperature extremes be encountered.

103

The ventilation method, duration and blower capacity shall be determined on an incident specific basis.
The HMRT shall consider the following aspects when determining the method, duration, and blower
capacity to be utilized:
- The size and configuration of the space
- The number, size, and configuration of the openings
- The initial atmospheric readings
- Natural ventilation
- Potential for contamination of surrounding areas
- Source of ventilation air
- Type and properties of contaminants
Only after proper size-up and consideration of the above listed items can the HMRT senior officer
determine the most proficient means of ventilation.
CONTROL OF HAZARDOUS ENERGIES (LOCKOUT/TAGOUT)
The second HMRT team, under the direction of an HMRT officer shall be primarily responsible for the
implementation and maintenance of energy control procedures. The Utilities Control Team shall initially
determine the existence of any hazardous energies currently compromising the survivability of the victim
and immediately attempt to secure that source. Following this initial action, the Utilities Control Team
shall begin a systematic approach to ensuring the control of all hazardous energies affecting the space
and area. This process shall begin with the ascertaining of the facilities specific isolation (lockout/tag
out) procedure for the confined space. The Utilities Control Team shall then verify the proper
implementation of this procedure through a visual inspection of all energy isolation devices. Upon
completion of this, the team officer shall determine the completeness of the isolation through visual
observation of the space and through extensive interrogation of facility personnel. Only upon the
satisfaction of the Utilities Control Team officer of the complete isolation of the space as well as any
potentially hazardous energies in the immediate area shall he inform the Rescue Group Officer of
complete isolation.
All energy isolation devices shall be locked, blinded, or blanked to be considered secured. The Utilities
Control Team shall inspect facility devices for proper securing and secure these devices as necessary. It
is the HMRT’s preference for facility personnel to secure all energy isolating devices. Any devices
secured by the HMRT shall be done so under the supervision of facility personnel if at all possible. Tags
shall also be applied to all energy isolating devices, whether facility applied or HMRT applied, denoting
the date, time, and FD rescue operation. The sole use of tags on any energy isolating device for purposes
of this procedure is prohibited. A firefighter shall be positioned to maintain visual contact with any
energy isolating device incapable of being substantively locked, blinded, or blanked.

104

The Utilities Control Team shall consider the following forms of energy when isolating a confined space:
- Electrical
- Pneumatic
- Hydraulic
- Gravity
- Thermal
- Pressurized water, gas, steam
- Stored energy
In addition, the Utilities Control Team shall ensure the isolation of all material feed lines into the space.

105

SECTION 21
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
INCIDENTS INVOLVING MILITARY ORDINANCE
The HMRT shall limit its activities to the isolation and securing of the site for incidents involving
military ordinance. If the involvement of military ordinance is known or suspected, the HMRT shall call
the US Armed Forces Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team (EOD) 315-772-5156 / 5157 for an
immediate response.
This team is dispatched from Fort Drum and shall be the lead agency upon arrival. Except for life saving
actions, the HMRT shall not enter the Hot-Zone and under no circumstances shall any response
personnel handle, or in any way disturb, any military ordinance.

106

SECTION 22
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
INCIDENTS INVOLVING EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS
The HMRT shall limit its activity to the isolation and securing of the site for incidents involving known
or suspected explosive materials. HMRT members shall not enter the Hot-Zone except as necessary for
life saving actions. The Auburn, Cayuga County, and/or State Police Agencies shall be notified and shall
be the lead agency upon arrival. The HMRT shall provide assistance and support to the Police Agency as
necessary to provide for the safety of civilians and responders.
The Onondaga County Sheriff’s Department has an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team that the local
law enforcement agency may want to consider contacting for assistance.

107

SECTION 23
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
CHEMICAL SUICIDES
Responder Information
First responders “unexpected” chemical exposure concern
- Ensure that dispatch information is shared between all disciplines to enhance responder safety
- Be alert for information indicating the potential for occupants in any enclosed space
- First responders must utilize the proper protective equipment
Mixing household chemicals to create toxic vapors
- Look for and recognize containers that may indicate presence of common household chemicals
- In most cases, two (or more) chemicals will be mixed to produce vapors
Analyze the Problem
Recognition/ID and Warning Signs
- Open containers or a ‘mixing container’. Chemicals may not be properly marked or labeled
- Do NOT rely on suicide notes or placards near the entry pathway for first responders which warn of
danger
- Open containers or household chemicals where they would not normally be found (vehicles, bedrooms,
etc.)
- Taping of doors, windows, dash vents, openings or other attempts to seal the enclosure
Locations: Vehicles and Structures
- If this is a chemical suicide remember it is a crime scene and once life safety considerations are met to
treat as such
- Look for indicators in the surrounding area and question occupants. After analysis, vehicles and
structures can be ventilated. Do NOT rely on presence or lack of chemical/unusual odors. Be aware of
contact with liquids or powders and provide decontamination for occupants and responders.
Plan the Response
Look
Two seconds to look into the vehicle for signs of a suicide (mixing vessels, residue, containers), ten
seconds for law enforcement.
Response Options
- Rescue/Recovery
- Evacuation/Isolation
- Protective handline

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- Decontamination
- Preserve evidence
Selection of PPE
- Follow department policy and procedure for proper PPE and respiratory protection selection
Obtain control of air monitoring equipment
Selection of Decontamination
- Occupants need to be decontaminated using a simple water shower of 3‐5 minutes, following clothing
removal
- Technical decontamination should be established for entry teams conducting control tasks.
Plan of Action
- Implement agency Hazardous Materials Response Protocols
- Develop a site safety plan
- Use a Risk Based Response control plan that is based on possible options listed above
Vehicle vs. Structure
- Compartment size will/can play a role in the levels of concentration, resulting in varying levels of
evacuation/shelter in place options
- The smaller the compartment the higher the concentration ‐> higher toxic levels and potential to reach
LEL levels
- Ventilate all occupancies to change the concentration levels of the environment
- Open the doors to vent and remove any occupant(s)
- Check for signs of life prior to removal (chest movement, body movement)
- If vehicle/structure is locked and there are no signs of life, isolate and warn others
Evacuation vs. Shelter in place – a determination must be made of which method will be more effective
in life safety
Implement the Plan
Handline (vapor disbursement or extinguishment)
- Vapor Disbursement ‐ Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Attempt to control
and isolate runoff
- Extinguishment ‐ May form explosive mixtures with air. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames
Ventilation/Change the Environment – Properly trained and equipped first responders should ventilate
after a thorough analysis of potential hazards

Air monitoring ‐ Should be conducted throughout the incident and until evidence has been collected and
the scene rendered safe

109

Victim transport – Decon prior to leaving the scene; methods will be based on occupant’s status
Decontamination – All entry team members should undergo a technical decon according to local
protocols. Beware of potential for occupants and clothing to ‘off‐gas’ trapped vapors. EMS and the
hospital must be notified in advance in order to avoid contamination of personnel/equipment.
Crime scene considerations – Minimize responder exposure while preserving evidence and supporting
law enforcement.
Evaluate
Maintain Situational Awareness – Don’t count on warning signs. Be aware of secondary contamination
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Hydrogen Sulfide
Description Colorless gas Odor threshold 0.77 ppm
Molecular formula H₂S Odor description Rotten egg
Molecular weight 34.08 Exposure route Inhalation
Density 1.19 (≈ 20% heavier than air) Signs & symptoms Irritation of respiratory system & eyes, apnea,
coma
Auto ignition temperature 260°C (500°F) LEL/UEL 4%, 44%
Vapor pressure 15, 600 mm Hg @ 25°C (77°F) IDLH 100 ppm
Solubility Soluble in water, hydrocarbon solvents, ether and ethanol
Detection PID with 10.6 eV lamp
Notes Death by inhalation can occur quickly at low levels
Hydrogen Cyanide
Description Bluish‐white liquid/colorless gas Odor threshold 0.58 ppm
Molecular formula HCN Odor description Bitter almond (odor may not be
detected by smell)
Molecular weight 27.03 Exposure route Inhalation, absorption
Density 0.94 (lighter than air) Signs & symptoms Respiration/depth change, confusion, asphyxia
Auto ignition temperature 538°C (1000°F) LEL/UEL 5.6%, 40%
Vapor pressure 630 mm Hg @ 20°C (68°F) IDLH 50 ppm
Solubility Miscible in water, alcohol, slightly soluble in ether
Detection PID with 13.6 eV lamp
Notes Death by inhalation can occur quickly at low levels

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SECTION 24
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
POSSIBLE METHAMPHETAMINE LAB
The HMRT response for methamphetamine labs may vary. Depending on the request, it could be for
decontamination, stand-by, air monitoring, and or product determination. Local law enforcement
agencies are the lead agencies for these incidents.
The Auburn Fire Department HMRT is in no way responsible for disposal of any potential by products of
a suspected methamphetamine lab.
Level “B” suits may be worn to prevent any splash contamination.
Level “B” suits shall not be utilized if there is an LEL of 10% or greater.
Structural turn out gear is applicable for decon personnel if air monitoring is within normal limits.

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SECTION 25
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
ANHYDROUS AMMONIA
Anhydrous ammonia is common among local farms.
AMMONIA
Ammonia is a colorless gas and it has a characteristic, pungent, choking odor. Ammonia has a molecular
weight of 17, which makes it about half as dense as air. Ammonia is exceedingly soluble in water (one
volume of water will dissolve 1000 volumes of ammonia gas at Standard Temperature and Pressure).
Ammonia boils at -33.4°C (-28°F) and freezes at -77.7°C (-108°F). Ammonia can be detected by the
human nose with very small amounts present in the atmosphere. Amounts as small as about 50 parts per
million in air can be detected simply by sniffing. Ammonia sharply irritates the eyes and air passages to
the lungs. At high concentrations it makes the lungs fill with fluid, which can QUICKLY cause death
unless prompt medical aid is given. The chemical formula for ammonia is NH3. The word "anhydrous"
means "devoid of, or without water". Therefore Anhydrous Ammonia is merely "pure ammonia" with no
added water.
USES OF AMMONIA
One of the principle commercial uses of ammonia is as a refrigerant. When a gas is liquefied, heat is
given off; when a liquid evaporates, heat is absorbed. When cool, the compressed ammonia liquefies.
When pressure is released, the liquid ammonia evaporates; in doing so it takes up heat. When the
ammonia evaporates it is usually reduced to a temperature of below -33.4°C (-28°F).
POTENTIAL HAZARDS
HEALTH
Ammonia may be fatal if inhaled. The vapors are extremely irritating and corrosive. Contact with
ammonia gas or liquefied ammonia may cause burns to the skin, and in the case of escaping ammonia
gas, severe frostbite or freezing of the skin and flesh. A fire at an ammonia source will produce irritating
corrosive and toxic gases. Runoff from fire control efforts may cause ground and groundwater pollution.
FIRE OR EXPLOSION
Ammonia will not ignite in air. It will burn in pure oxygen. Ammonia gas, while only about half as dense
as air is still heavy enough so that it will sink to ground level instead of remaining suspended in the air.
Therefore, it will spread mostly along, or near to, the ground, rather than blowing like a full cloud.
Containers of anhydrous ammonia are under great pressure. Anhydrous ammonia containers may
explode when heated and cylinders may rocket when ruptured.

112

PUBLIC SAFETY
Call CHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300 if needed.
Set up an initial isolation zone from the spill or leak for at least 300 feet in ALL directions.
Remove all persons and animals in a "crosswind" direction to outside the initial isolation zone.
Keep all unauthorized personnel away.
All personnel are to stay upwind of the spill/leak.
Since ammonia gas will spread along the ground...it will collect in low or confined areas, such as,
basements, ground depressions, underground access points under manhole covers, etc. Therefore, all
personnel are to stay out of these low areas.
Closed spaces (even on the same level as the spill/leak) are to be well ventilated before entering. Just
opening doors and windows is not sufficient. If ANY odor of ammonia is present, the ventilation must be
forced by use of large volume fans. Note: since ammonia in air is NOT flammable or explosive, the use
of positive pressure or smoke ejector electric fans is permissible.
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required.
Structural firefighting protective clothing is NOT effective in ammonia spill/leak situations. It should be
worn in FIRE situations only.
Chemical protective clothing should be worn. It must be remembered that chemical protective clothing
provides NO thermal protection.
EVACUATION
If ammonia is evident in a downwind direction at the edge of the initial isolation circle, then the isolation
zone must be extended out on the downwind side for at least an additional 1000feet (.2miles). The width
of this extended isolation zone beyond the initial isolation circle should be equal to the length of the
zone, ie. 1000feet.
Evacuation areas may be altered due to varying weather conditions. Very light winds may shorten
evacuation areas, while strong winds may preclude increasing the evacuation area. Incident Command
should be cautious of wind direction and wind speed changes occurring during the operation. While
higher wind speeds will help to disperse the ammonia gas into the atmosphere more rapidly, it will also
extend the isolation area farther downwind during the early stages of the operation. Precipitation in any
form, drizzle, rain, snow, etc., may suppress the expansion of the ammonia cloud into the atmosphere,
but it will keep the cloud more dense in the initial area.

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FIRE
On small fires dry chemical or CO2 may be used.
On large fires ... water spray, fog, or regular foam. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE THE AMMONIA
CONTAINERS.
Move undamaged containers from the fire area if it can be done without risk.
Fires involving tanks:
Fight fires from a maximum distance using unmanned hoses or monitors.
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
DO NOT direct water at source of leak or safety devices. ICING MAY OCCUR.
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.
ALWAYS STAY AWAY FROM ENDS OF TANKS.
SPILL OR LEAK
Fully encapsulating vapor protective clothing should be worn for spills and leaks with no fire.
Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
Stop leak if you can do so without risk.
If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.
Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.
DO NOT direct water at spill or source leak.
Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift.
Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

114

FIRST AID
Skin or eye contact with gaseous or liquid ammonia and/or the ingestion of gaseous ammonia into the
respiratory system creates a very serious condition. First Aid and medical treatment at the scene should
only be performed by qualified EMS personnel.

Move victim to fresh air.
Apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing.
Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
Remove contaminated shoes and clothing.
In case of contact with liquefied ammonia, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water.
Remember - THE EFFECTS OF CONTACT OR INHALATION MAY BE DELAYED.

115

SECTION 26
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
ANTHRAX AND WMD THREATS
The following information may be helpful for WMD threats. Law enforcement is the lead agency for
these incidents. Establishing a unified command center is critical for a proper response.
The National Domestic Preparedness Office issued the guidelines for responding to a WMD threat.
1. Anonymous caller indicating a WMD threat (including anthrax)
·

Law enforcement response including local authorities and FBI agent

·

Fire department/HazMat response not recommended unless device or substance is found.

·

Routine law enforcement investigation.

·

Investigative actions during this response may include:
- Information gathering at the scene.
- Building evacuation/search following local protocol.
- Taking control of the building ventilation system may be warranted based upon
investigative findings.
- Attention should be focused on appliances or devices foreign to the surroundings.

- Included should be an assessment of the building ventilation system to rule out forced
entry and tampering.
Protective equipment should not be required unless hazards or risks are indicated.
- Investigation similar to a telephonic bomb threat.
·

Suspicious findings during investigation should initiate a public safety response including:
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- Fire/EMS/HazMat.
- EOD team.
- Notifications per local plan which should include local and state health departments

- Notifications per FBI plan.
2. Potential WMD device located
·
Follow local protocols for risk assessment and evaluation of potential explosive devices. Included
in the response should be:
- Law enforcement including local authorities and FBI agent.
- Fire/EMS/HazMat.
- EOD team.
- Local and state health departments
·
If explosive device is not ruled out, coordinate efforts with local/regional EOD authority and
notify FBI Bomb Data Center (BDC).
·

·

If explosive device is ruled out:
- Evaluate for potential chemical, biological or radioactive filler.
- If radioactive filler appears to be present, follow FBI plans for requesting additional assistance.
- If no hazardous materials appear to be present, response continues as a law enforcement
investigation.
Device with potential chemical or biological filler or supplement.
- Follow FBI ERT protocols for documentation of the crime scene.
- Contain the package following recommendations from a hazardous materials authority. Assure
notification of FBI/HMRU, through local FBI.
- Options include double bagging, steel cans, poly containment vessels, or utilization of
a hazardous materials over-pack.
- Control the material as evidence and follow FBI plan for laboratory analysis.

·

Potential release of WMD material from a device.
- Control the ventilation system.
- Follow protocols for a hazardous materials incident.
- Evaluate the extent of contamination.
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- Evacuation of affected areas and decontamination procedures should be selected on the basis of
an incident and risk assessment
- Provide medical attention following the recommendations from the local/regional public health
medical authority.
- Control and or isolate the hazard.
- Treat as a FBI hazardous materials crime scene.

- Request assistance from FBI/HMRU through local FBI.
3. Specific situations: Envelope with potential threat of anthrax, letter opened and material
present.
·

Public safety response including local authorities and FBI agent

·

Contain the package following recommendations from a hazardous materials authority.
- Options include double bagging, steel cans, poly containment vessels, or utilization of
a hazardous materials over-pack.
- Control the material as evidence and follow FBI plan for laboratory analysis.

·
Provide medical attention/decontamination following the recommendations from the local/regional
public health medical authority
- Evaluate the extent of contamination.
- Evacuation of the affected area and decontamination procedures should be selected on the basis
of an incident hazard and risk assessment.
- Generally, medical prophylaxis and decontamination have not been indicated except for
washing hands with soap and warm water.
4. Specific situations: Envelope with potential threat of anthrax, letter opened and no material
present.
·

Law enforcement response including local authorities and FBI agent
- Fire department/EMS/HazMat response not recommended unless suspicious material is found or
individuals are presenting symptoms.

·

Handle the package following FBI ERT protocols
- Double bag the material and place in a suitable container such as an evidence paint can
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- Control the material as evidence and follow FBI plan for laboratory analysis.
·
No medical attention/decontamination is necessary unless symptoms are present, although local
public health authorities should be notified.
·

Handle as a law enforcement investigation.

5. Specific situations: Envelope with potential threat of anthrax, letter not opened.
·

Law enforcement response including local authorities and FBI agent

- Fire department/HazMat response not recommended unless suspicious material is found.
·

Handle the package following FBI ERT protocols.
- Double bag the material and place in a suitable container such as evidence paint can.
- Control the material as evidence and follow FBI plan for laboratory analysis.

·

No medical attention/decontamination is necessary.

·

Handle as a law enforcement investigation.

These guidelines are issued from the NDPO "WMD Threats: Sample Guidelines."

In the event a local law enforcement agency has requested the HMRT for a potential
WMD incident, review the above NDPO guideline with the unified command staff.
The specific decontamination procedure to be recommended depends on the specific circumstances. Use
common sense in assessing situations. Anthrax is transmitted only by direct skin contact or direct
inhalation of aerosolized anthrax spores. These recommendations are not intended for confirmed anthrax
contamination.
Scenario 1: Suspect powder/substance is contained in an unopened envelope or container.
Human contact only with outside of envelope/container.
Area Decon: None required
Personal Decon: Wash hands with soap and water
Scenario 2: Suspect powder/substance has spilled on environmental surface and hands only.
Area Decon: Wash down thoroughly with 1:10 dilution of household bleach
(0.5% hypochlorite solution)
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Personal Decon: Wash hands and forearms with soap and water
Scenario 3: Suspect powder/substance has spilled on hands, clothes and environmental surfaces.
Area Decon: Wash down area thoroughly with 1:10 dilution of household bleach
(0.5% hypochlorite solution) after approval by law enforcement
Personal Decon: - Wash hands and forearms with soap and water

- Remove contaminated clothing, double bag and hold for environmental test results
- Take shower with soap and shampoo at earliest opportunity
- Medical evaluation not necessary
Scenario 4: Suspect powder/substance has spilled with massive facial or body exposure, or direct
inhalation exposure.
Area Decon: Wash down area throughly with 1:10 dilution of household bleach
(0.5% hypochlorite solution) after approved by law enforcement
Personal Decon: - Wash exposed skin throughly with soap and water
- Remove contaminated clothing, double bag and hold for environmental test results
- Take shower with soap and shampoo at earliest opportunity
- Refer for medical evaluation if testing of environmental sample not possible in 24 hours
If it is determined to be a credible threat and a sample is requested, use the following:
PROTOCOL FOR SUBMITTING ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLES FOR LABORATORY
TESTING (Dry material only)
Levels of protection will have to be determined for each type of incident. The use of Level “B” suits is
suggested.
Packaging Material Needed:
Three zip lock bags per specimen.
Biohazard label.
Chain of Custody Form.
One gallon paint can with lid, or a small plastic container with a secure lid.
Procedure for Packaging:
With the appropriate precautions, place the suspected environmental material in the zip lock bag and seal
completely.
Place the zip lock-sealed envelope in a 2nd zip lock bag and seal completely.
Place the double sealed zip lock in a 3rd zip lock bag and seal completely.
Affix a Biohazard tape on the outer zip lock bag.
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Place the triple bagged sample into the airtight container and seal container firmly.
Affix a Biohazard label on the outer seal.
Fill the chain of custody form and place around the container with a rubber band.
Place the container in a plastic bag and seal.
Affix on the outer plastic bag a Biohazard label.
Sample Size/Number
A single sample per incident is adequate.

Minimal amount of material is necessary -- no more than a few ounces; in the case of a letter or
envelope, package the whole item.
Responsibility for Transport
Local law enforcement is responsible to arrange for specimen transport.

121

SECTION 27
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
MERCURY SPILLS
The following information is from the United States Environmental Protection agency:
Cleaning Up Spills
What not to do after a mercury spill:
•
•
•

•

•

Never use a vacuum cleaner to clean up mercury. The vacuum will put mercury into the air and
increase exposure.
Never use a broom to clean up mercury. It will break the mercury into smaller droplets and
spread them.
Never pour mercury down a drain. It may lodge in the plumbing and cause future problems
during plumbing repairs. If discharged, it can cause pollution of the septic tank or sewage
treatment plant.
Never wash clothing or other items that have come in direct contact with mercury in a washing
machine, because mercury may contaminate the machine and/or pollute sewage. Clothing that
has come into direct contact with mercury should be discarded. By "direct contact," we mean
that mercury was (or has been) spilled directly on the clothing, for example, if you break a
mercury thermometer and some of elemental mercury beads came in contact with your clothing.
Never walk around if your shoes might be contaminated with mercury. Contaminated clothing
can also spread mercury around.

What to do if a mercury thermometer breaks:
NOTE: these instructions also apply to spills from other sources, if the amount spilled is less than or
similar to the amount in a thermometer
• Have everyone else leave the area; don't let anyone walk through the mercury on their way out.

Make sure all pets are removed from the area. Open all windows and doors to the outside; shut
all doors to other parts of the house.
• Mercury can be cleaned up easily from the following surfaces: wood, linoleum, tile and any
similarly smooth surfaces.
• If a spill occurs on carpet, curtains, upholstery or other absorbent surfaces, these contaminated
items should be thrown away in accordance with the disposal means outlined below. Only cut
and remove the affected portion of the contaminated carpet for disposal.

We carry a mercury spill kit on Rescue 1. In the event that it is not available, the following items may be
used to assist in picking up mercury:

122

1. 4-5 ziplock-type bags
2. Trash bags (2 to 6 mils thick)
3. Rubber, nitrile or latex gloves
4. Paper towels
5. Cardboard or squeegee
6. Eyedropper
7. Duct tape, or shaving cream and small paint brush
8. Flashlight
9. Powdered sulfur (optional)
Cleanup Instructions:
1. Put on rubber, nitrile or latex gloves.
2. If there are any broken pieces of glass or sharp objects, pick them up with care. Place all broken
objects on a paper towel. Fold the paper towel and place in a zip lock bag. Secure the bag and
label it as directed by your local health or fire department.
3. Locate visible mercury beads. Use a squeegee or cardboard to gather mercury beads. Use slow
sweeping motions to keep mercury from becoming uncontrollable. Take a flashlight, hold it at a
low angle close to the floor in a darkened room and look for additional glistening beads of
mercury that may be sticking to the surface or in small cracked areas of the surface. Note:
Mercury can move surprising distances on hard-flat surfaces, so be sure to inspect the entire
room when "searching."
4. Use the eyedropper to collect or draw up the mercury beads. Slowly and carefully squeeze
mercury onto a damp paper towel. Place the paper towel in a zip lock bag and secure. Make sure
to label the bag as directed by your local health or fire department.
5. After you remove larger beads, put shaving cream on top of small paint brush and gently "dot"
the affected area to pick up smaller hard-to-see beads. Alternatively, use duct tape to collect
smaller hard-to-see beads. Place the paint brush or duct tape in a zip lock bag and secure. Make
sure to label the bag as directed by your local health or fire department.
6. OPTIONAL STEP: It is OPTIONAL to use commercially available powdered sulfur to absorb
the beads that are too small to see. The sulfur does two things: (1) it makes the mercury easier to
see since there may be a color change from yellow to brown and (2) it binds the mercury so that
it can be easily removed and suppresses the vapor of any missing mercury. Where to get
commercialized sulfur? It may be supplied as mercury vapor absorbent in mercury spill kits,
which can be purchased from laboratory,
123

chemical supply and hazardous materials response supply manufacturers.
Note: Powdered sulfur may stain fabrics a dark color. When using powdered sulfur, do not
breathe in the powder as it can be moderately toxic. Additionally, users should read and
understand product information before use.
7. If you choose not to use this option, you may want to request the services of a contractor who has
monitoring equipment to screen for mercury vapors. Consult the local environmental or health
agency to inquire about contractors in your area. Place all materials used with the cleanup,
including gloves, in a trash bag. Place all mercury beads and objects into the trash bag. Secure
trash bag and label it.
8. Contact the local health department for proper disposal in accordance with local, state and federal
laws. The Cayuga County Health Department number is 315-253-1560.
9. Remember to keep the area well ventilated to the outside (i.e., windows open and fans in exterior
windows running) for at least 24 hours after your successful cleanup. Continue to keep pets and
children out of cleanup area. If sickness occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
10. Recommendation: If there are young children or pregnant women in the house, seek additional
advice from the local or state health department.
Spills of more than the amount in a thermometer, but less than or similar to two tablespoons (One Pound)
Cleanup instructions:
1. Have everyone else leave the area; don't let anyone walk through the mercury on their way out.
2. Open all windows and doors to the outside.
3. Turn down the temperature.
4. Shut all doors to other parts of the house, and leave the area.
5. Call the local or state health or environmental agency.
Spills of one pound or more (if it looks like two tablespoons or more)
Any time one pound or more of mercury is released to the environment, it is mandatory to call the
National Response Center (NRC). The NRC hotline operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call (800)
424-8802. Note that because mercury is heavy, only two tablespoons of mercury weigh about one pound.

124

Storing, transporting and disposing of mercury
What to do if someone has mercury in their home:
Many people have containers of elemental mercury in their homes left over from science projects or
other sources. If someone has elemental mercury in their home, exercise extreme caution with it and
package it to prevent any leaks or spills.
Packaging mercury for storage and transportation
• All mercury-containing products or containers of mercury should be placed inside a larger

container with a tight fitting lid.

• Kitty litter or oil-absorbent matter should be placed around the product to protect it from breaking

or sudden shocks.

• Clearly label storage container as "Mercury - DO NOT OPEN."
• If you must wait for a hazardous waste collection day, store products safely in their original

containers with the labels intact, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Transport container to a household hazardous collection center in a cardboard box. Secure them
so that they do not tip over. This will minimize shifting or sliding during sudden stops or turns.
• Transport containers in the back of a pick-up truck or in a car trunk. If you must transport in the
passenger compartment, make sure there is adequate ventilation.

125

SECTION 28
INCIDENT SPECIFIC OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
CHLORINE
CHLORINE
Chlorine is a poisonous, yellowish-green gas with a sharp, irritating odor and is nearly two and a half
times as dense as air. Chlorine has a molecular weight of 71. The critical temperature of chlorine is
146°C so that it is easily liquefied by cooling and compression at all ordinary temperatures and is
moderately soluble in water, reacting chemically with water. Chlorine boils at -34.4°C (-29.°F) and
freezes at -101.6°C (-150.9°F). Chlorine attacks the mucous membranes of the nasal passages and lungs,
producing effects similar to those of a bad cold even when inhaled in very dilute form. It is very
poisonous and inhalation of the gas may cause serious damage to the lungs and even death. Chlorine is
an element with the chemical symbol Cl.
USES OF CHLORINE
One of the principle commercial uses of chlorine is as a bleach and almost one-third of all chlorine made
in normal times is consumed by the pulp and paper industry for bleaching purposes. Another third of the
chlorine manufactured is used in the preparation of chlorinated compounds of carbon. A principal one of
these is trichlorethylene, being an excellent solvent of oils, fats, and waxes it is used extensively by "dry
cleaners" and as a means of degreasing metals prior to plating or painting. Chlorine is employed, in
relatively small quantities, for sterilizing municipal water supplies, sewage, and swimming pools. In
these uses, the chlorine is fed directly into the water and either the free chlorine or the hypochlorous acid
that forms upon the contact with water attacks the microorganisms. A few parts per million of the
element in drinking-water is all that is required to kill all pathogenic organisms.
POTENTIAL HAZARDS
HEALTH
Chlorine is TOXIC and it may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through the skin. A fire at a chlorine
source will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Contact with chlorine gas or liquefied
chlorine may cause burns and severe injury. Contact with escaping chlorine gas may cause frostbite.
Runoff from fire control efforts may cause pollution.
FIRE OR EXPLOSION
Chlorine will not burn but it will support combustion. Since chlorine gas is about two and a half times
heavier than air, the vapors from liquefied chlorine will sink to ground level and spread along the ground.
Pure chlorine is a strong oxidizer and may react vigorously or even explosively with many materials
including fuels. Chlorine frequently reacts violently with moist air and/or water and may ignite
combustibles such as wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc. Chlorine gas
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containers are under great pressure, while liquid chlorine containers are under considerably less pressure.
Even so, containers may explode when heated and cylinders may rocket when ruptured.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Call CHEMTREC 1-800-424-9300 if needed.
Set up an initial isolation zone from the spill or leak for at least 300 to 600 feet in ALL directions.
Remove all persons and animals in a "crosswind" direction to outside the initial isolation zone.
Keep all unauthorized personnel away.
All personnel are to stay upwind of the spill/leak.
Since chlorine gas will spread along the ground...it will collect in low or confined areas, such as
basements, ground depressions, underground access points under manhole covers, etc. Therefore, all
personnel are to stay out of these low areas.
Closed spaces (even on the same level as the spill/leak) are to be well ventilated before entering. Just
opening doors and windows is not sufficient. If ANY odor of chlorine is present, the ventilation must be
forced by use of large volume fans. Note: since chlorine gas in air is NOT flammable or explosive, the
use of positive pressure and smoke ejector electric fans is permissible.
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING
Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is a required.
Structural firefighting protective clothing is NOT effective in chlorine spill/leak situations. It should be
worn in FIRE situations only.
Chemical protective clothing should be worn. It must be remembered that chemical protective clothing
provides NO thermal protection.
EVACUATION
If chlorine is evident in a downwind direction at the edge of the initial isolation circle, then the isolation
zone must be extended out on the downwind side for at least an additional 1000 feet (.2miles). The width
of this extended isolation zone beyond the initial isolation circle should be equal to the length of the
zone, i.e.. 1000 feet.
Evacuation areas may be altered due to varying weather conditions. Very light winds may shorten
evacuation areas, while strong winds may preclude increasing the evacuation area. Incident Command
should be cautious of wind direction and wind speed changes occurring during the operation. While
higher wind speeds will help to disperse the chlorine gas into the
127

atmosphere more rapidly, it will also extend the isolation area farther downwind during the early stages
of the operation. Precipitation in any form, drizzle, rain, snow, etc., may suppress the expansion of the
chlorine cloud into the atmosphere, but it will keep the cloud more dense in the initial area.
FIRE
On small fires ...Water only. Contain fire and let burn. If fire must be fought, water spray or fog is
recommended.
On large fires ... water spray, fog, or regular foam.
DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE THE CHLORINE CONTAINERS.
Move undamaged containers from the fire area if it can be done without risk.
Fires involving tanks:
Fight fires from a maximum distance using unmanned hoses or monitors.
Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out.
DO NOT direct water at source of leak or safety devices. ICING MAY OCCUR.
Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.
ALWAYS STAY AWAY FROM ENDS OF TANKS.
SPILL OR LEAK
Fully encapsulating Level “A” vapor protective clothing shall be worn for spills and leaks with no fire.
Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
Stop leak if you can do so without risk.
If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.
Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.
DO NOT direct water at spill or source leak.
Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift from populated areas.
Isolate area until gas has dispersed.
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FIRST AID
Skin or eye contact with gaseous or liquid chlorine and/or the ingestion of gaseous chlorine into the
respiratory system creates a very serious condition.
Move victim to fresh air.
Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
Remove contaminated shoes and clothing.
In case of contact with liquefied ammonia, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water.
Remember - THE EFFECTS OF CONTACT OR INHALATION MAY BE DELAYED.
Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material involved, and they take precautions to protect
themselves.
CHLORINE KITS
The HMRT team has a type “B” kit at Station 3 for use on 1 ton cylinders.

129

SECTION 29
FUTURE USE

130

SECTION 30
FUTURE USE

131

SECTION 31
FUTURE USE

132

APPENDIX 1
FORMS & DOCUMENTS

133

APPENDIX 2
HAND SIGNALS
The following list of signals is suggested for emergency communication:
Signal

Meaning

One long blast on air horn/siren/whistle

Evacuate area

Two long blasts on horn/siren/whistle

All clear

Hands on top of head

I'm OK

Strongly wave arm(s) over head

Help/need assistance

Cross arms in front of head, fists closed

Stop/stay away

Point one arm in direction of evacuation, make large
circling motion with other arm in direction of evacuation

Evacuate area

Hand clutching throat

Out of air/can't breathe

Grip partner's wrist or waist

Leave area immediately

134

APPENDIX 3
HAZ-MAT EQUIPMENT INSPECTION RECORD

135

APPENDIX 4
Site Safety Plan

AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TEAM
SITE SAFETY PLAN
A Site Safety Plan must be developed and implemented for each incident where personnel may potentially be
exposed to hazardous substances while conducting operations. The purpose of the Site Safety Plan is to address the
safety and health hazards that may exist at each operation and to identify procedures for the protection of
personnel and the environment. A Site Safety Plan shall be prepared and reviewed by qualified personnel for each
hazardous response action. The Plan must address the safety requirements for hazardous activities or emergencies.
Before operations commence, all safety aspects of the operations to be performed should be examined, and the Site
Safety Plan must be updated if new tasks or hazards are identified.
A. SITE DESCRIPTION:
DATE:
LOCATION:
TIME OF DAY:
INCIDENT #:
PRIMARY HAZARDS:
Flammability
Health Reactivity
Other
SDS available:

UN #:

CAS #:

IMMEDIATE EXPOSURES:
TOPOGRAPHY:
WEATHER CONDITIONS:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE: DEC, OFPC, REGIONAL HAZMAT TEAM, SYRACUSE
HAZMAT, COUNTY EMO, COUNTY REHAB, PUBLC WORKS

136

B. KEY PERSONNEL & HAZARD COMMUNICATIONS PLAN:
NAMES OF KEY PERSONNEL: (i.e., Incident Commander, Incident Safety Officer, HAZMAT Officer,
HAZMAT Safety Officer, Public Information Officer, Site Supervisor.
IC:

ISO:

HMO:

HMSO:

PIO:

Site Supervisor and Site Personnel:
PERSONNEL / COMPANY ASSIGNMENTS:
Entry Team (ET):

/

Backup Team (BT):

Entry Team two if needed:

/

/

Resource Information Officer (RIO):
DECON Officer (DO):
DECON Team:

/

/

/

/

COMMUNICATIONS:
RADIO CHANNELS: COMMAND:

OPERATIONS:

ADDITIONAL CHANNELS IF NEEDED: HAZMAT OPS:

EMS:
ENTRY TEAM:

ESCAPE ROUTES:
EVACUATION SIGNALS: One long blast on air horn/siren/whistle – Evacuate area
Two long blasts on air horn/siren/whistle – All clear
HAND SIGNAL REVIEW:
Hand Gripping Throat: Out of Air, Can't Breathe
Grip Partner's Wrist or Both Hands around Waist: Leave Area Immediately
Hands On Top of Head: Need Assistance
Thumbs Up: O.K., I'm alright
Thumbs Down: No, Negative

137

C. LEVELS OF PROTECTION:
(List each chemical, associated PEL and IDLH, and suggested Level of Protection)

Chemical:

Permissible Exposure
Limits (PEL):

Immediately Dangerous
to Life and Health
(IDLH):

Level of Protection:

A B C D

D. METHOD OF DELINEATING EXCLUSION, HOT, WARM, AND COLD ZONES:
(List chemical, DOT recommended evacuation distance, and suggest which types of sampling method(s) are being
used (i.e. 5 gas meter, Area Rae, Exploranium).

Chemical:

Evac. Distance:

Sampling Type:

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:

138

E. CONTROLLING SITE ACCESS: (LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES, PUBLIC WORKS,
BARRIERS, MEDIA, REVERSE 911 NOTIFICATIONS).

F. DECONTAMINATION: TECHNICAL, EMERGENCY, OR MASS
REFER TO SECTION 9 (PG. 35 – 42) OF THE HAZMAT SOG
EQUIPMENT CONSIDERATIONS: WATER SUPPLY, PROPANE, 110V POWER, SCBA, LIGHTING

LIST CHEMICALS AND DECONTAMINATION SOLUTIONS:

CHEMICAL:

SOLUTION:

PRIMARY PERSONNEL DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURE:

SECONDARY PERSONNEL DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURE:

139

EQUIPMENT DISPOSAL PROCEDURES:
LIST CONTRACTOR CLEAN UP COMPANY, DEC REPRESENTATIVE AND ANY ADDITIONAL
PERTINENT INFORMATION:

G. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES:
DESCRIBE PROCEDURES FOR THE FOLLOWING:
EXPOSURE TO A CHEMICAL DUE TO PPE FAILURE: (Skin/eye contact, Inhalation, Ingestion)

CHEMICAL:

EXPOSURE PROCEDURE:

ENTRY TEAM INJURY PROCEDURES AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

ENTRY TEAM RESCUE PROCEDURES (2 IN / 2 OUT):

CONTAMINATION BEYOND HOT ZONE:

SITE SPECIFIC PHYSICAL HAZARDS:

140

FLAMMABLE COMBUSTIBLE LOCATIONS:

H. MONITORING PROCEDURES:

I. PROVISIONS FOR MEDICAL CARE:
ALS PROVIDER AND APPROPRIATE MEDICAL FACILITIES:

EXPOSURE SYMPTOMS:

FIRST AID METHODS FOR EXPOSURE:

J. ENTRY OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the initial entry into the contaminated area is to: (Describe specific actions and/or tasks to be
performed such as conduct initial air monitoring and determine extent of hazards/damage present).
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)

141

K. INCIDENT SCENE SKETCH:
Note wind direction, topography, building layout, exposure concerns, and any known hazards (use additional
pages if needed)

142

APPENDIX 5

Donning and doffing the Level “A” suit

DONNING THE LEVEL “A” SUIT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

•

Pre-donning briefing
Gather and inspect PPE
Baseline vitals taken and forwarded to Safety Officer (SO)
Hydrate and weight record
Remove and secure personal items
Place both legs in suit
Place on red “over-socks” if needed
Put on boots
Don SCBA ensuring a full bottle is in place
Don comms gear
Don SCBA mask and ensure proper operation. Do not stay on air.
Don head protection
Place inner cotton or latex gloves on
Insert right arm into suit
Adjust suit around SCBA and place left arm into suit
Record “On Suit” time
Don outer gloves
Add yellow Kevlar gloves if hazards indicate
Add elastic bands at the end of sleeves
Use Chemguard tape to seal. Tab the tape to ease removal
Go on air when appropriate and record time
Pull the face portion of the suit over your head and close the zipper in a downward pull
Close the flap over the zipper and use Chemguard tape to seal. Tab the tape.
Have assistant visually inspect ensemble for any unnoticed issues
Review emergency hand signals
 Low on air
 Out of air
 I’m OK
 Attention
 Emergency
Proceed with entry

143

DOFFING THE LEVEL “A” SUIT
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Exit the Hot Zone to the Warm Zone at the Decon entrance
Place tools in appropriate tool drop area
Place any potential evidence in appropriate area if applicable
Transfer any victims to Decon personnel
Remove Chemguard tape and discard into trash drop
Enter first Decon station. Wash and rinse with Decon personnel assistance.
Enter second Decon station if applicable. More stations may be added if needed
Remove outer gloves
Unzip Level “A” suit and sit down
Remove left arm followed by the right arm and record “Off Suit” time
Remove helmet and inner gloves
Remove SCBA mask and record “Off Air” time
Remove SCBA
Remove all other clothing
Proceed to shower if applicable
Proceed to medical and record vital signs
Proceed to rehabilitation
Debriefing

144

APPENDIX 6

Fuel Spill Incident Form

AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT
FUEL SPILL INCIDENT FORM
DATE:

INCIDENT #

I/C

INCIDENT ADDRESS:

TYPE OF FUEL INVOLVED:

ESTIMATED AMOUNT OF FUEL SPILLED:
WHERE WAS PRODUCT SPILLED (GROUND SURFACE):

HOW WAS SPILL CONTAINED:
o

SPEEDY – DRY: QUANTITY USED:

o

ABSORBENT PIGS: QUANTITY USED:

o

ABSORBENT PADS: OIL OR CHEMICAL: QUANTITY USED:

o

ABSORBENT 4” BOOMS: # OF FEET USED:

o

SEWER DRAIN COVERS: HOW MANY USED:

o

PLUG AND DIKE:

o

PLUG KIT:

o

ADDITIONAL:

145

RUN OFF CONCERNS:

NOTIFICATIONS TO COUNTY EMO:

DEC NOTIFICATION:
IS THE SPILL OVER 5 GALLONS?
DOES THE SPILL THREATEN WATERWAYS?
DEC SPILL #:
DEC OFFICER NAME:
SPILLERS NAME:
SPILLERS ORGANIZATION:
SPILLERS ORGANIZATION ADDRESS:

SPILLERS LICENSE PLATE # AND / OR VIN #:
SPILLERS CONTRACTED CLEAN UP COMPANY (IF APPLICABLE):

3RD PARTY CLEAN UP CONTRACTOR INFORMATION:

146

APPENDIX 7

Post HAZMAT Incident Summary Report Form

AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT
POST HAZMAT INCIDENT SUMMARY REPORT
DATE:

TIME:

INCIDENT #:

I/C:

ADDRESS:
COMPANIES / AGENCIES INVOLVED:

DISPATCH INFORMATION:

SITUATION FOUND:

PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED:

147

POSITIVE FINDINGS:

RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO BE ADDRESSED:

148

THIS REPORT SHOULD BE FOLLOWED UP BY A POST INCIDENT ACTION
(PIA) REVIEW AS PER DEPARTMENT POLICY. THIS IS NOT TO BE USED IN
PLACE OF PIA’S.

APPENDIX 8
Personal Radiation Exposure Tracking Log

AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT
PERSONNEL RADIATION EXPOSURE TRACKING LOG
DATE:

TIME:

INCIDENT #:

I/C:

ADDRESS:
(RADOS RAD 60 PERSONAL ALARMING DOSIMETER)

NAME
OR
BADGE

ENTRY

DOSIMETER
NUMBER

TIME
IN

RAD 60

READING

EXIT
TIME
OUT

RAD 60

READING

DECON

COMMENTS

Y / N

149

APPENDIX 9

Chemical / Biological Incident Form

AUBURN FIRE DEPARTMENT
CHEMICAL / BIOLOGICAL INCIDENT FORM
DATE:

INCIDENT #

I/C

INCIDENT ADDRESS:

CHECK OTHER AGENCIES RESPONDING AND POINT OF CONTACT INFORMATION:
o

AUBURN POLICE DEPARTMENT:

o

CAYUGA COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT:

o

CAYUGA COUNTY SHERIFFS OFFICE:

o

NEW YORK STATE POLICE:

o

CAYUGA COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT:

o

FBI

o

OTHER(S):

150

DISPATCH INFORMATION:

INCIDENT ASSESSMENT:

HAS A POLICE AGENCY DETERMINED THIS TO BE A CREDIBLE THREAT AND WHY?

WHEN WAS SUBSTANCE FIRST NOTICED AND BY WHO?
WHAT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS (SLUDGEM) ARE PRESENT?
HOW MANY POTENTIAL VICTIMS AND WHERE ARE THEY?
WHAT TYPE OF EXPOSURE HAS THERE BEEN?
CONTACT INFORMATION OF CALLER / VICTIM / PATIENT:

HAVE EXPOSED PERSON(S) BEEN DECONTAMINATED?
LOCATION OF EXPOSED CLOTHING:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

151

APPENDIX 10
(Future Use)

152

APPENDIX D
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator/Deputy Fire Coordinators

Fire Coordinator:

David Perkins
315.730.8638
[email protected]

?????????????? – Car 3
Phone: ???-???-????
E-Mail: [email protected]

Deputy Coordinators:
David James – Car 5

Pat Burns – Car 10

Battalion 4

Phone: 315-406-8226

Phone: 315-952-8850

E-Mail: [email protected]

E-Mail: [email protected]
Mike Nicpon – Car 13

This is in twice

Jeff Dygert – Car 11

Battalion 3

Battalion 2

Phone: 315- 554-5276

Phone: 315-246-9414

E-Mail: [email protected]

E-Mail: [email protected]

Dave Newert – Car 7

George Seemann – Car 12

Battalion 5

Battalion 6

Phone: 315-515-8290

Phone 315-224-5707

E-Mail: [email protected]

E-Mail: [email protected]

Jason Green – Car 8

Mike Nicpon – Car 13

Phone: 315-382-5576

Phone: 315-729-3150

E-Mail: [email protected]

E-Mail: [email protected]

Mark Fritz – Car 9

Stephen Bryant – Car 14

HAZMAT

Battalion 2Phone: 315-730-7545

Phone: 315-730-8727

Phone: 315-730-7545

E-Mail: [email protected]

E-Mail: [email protected]

Duplicate phone #

153

APPENDIX-E
Cayuga County Fire Coordinator Line of Authority
The Cayuga County Fire Coordinator oversees all facets of Cayuga County Fire Services. The Fire
Coordinator answers directly to the Director of Emergency Services of their designee. At an
emergency, the Fire Coordinator functions as an advisory resource for the Incident Commander.
A. VACANCY IN THE POSITION OF THE COUNTY FIRE COORDINATOR:
In accordance with authority designated by the Cayuga County Legislature, shall appoint a County
Fire Coordinator under Section 225-a of the New York State County Law.
B. The Fire Coordinator, as Chief Administrative Officer at the County level, will have the
following duties and responsibilities:
• Administer and enforce the Cayuga County Fire Mutual Aid Plan as per this document
• Respond to the scene of fires and other emergencies requiring the needs of firefighters and
serve as an advisor to the Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge.
• Assist the Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge with obtaining needed equipment,
technical assistance, coordination at the scene, liaison to other agencies or other functions as
may be requested by the Incident Commander or Officer-in-Charge.
• Administer and supervise the Cayuga County and New York State Training Program.
• Administer and supervise the Cayuga County Fire Training Center and all training programs
developed by his office for the benefit of County Fire Services.
• Serve as liaison for Cayuga County Fire Services with New York State Office of Fire Prevention
and Control.
• Serve as liaison to the Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services with the fire departments,
fire companies, and fire districts of Cayuga County.
• Serve as liaison to the Cayuga County Office of Emergency Services with the Cayuga County
Fire Advisory Board.
The law says the F/C is the liaison between the FAB and the legislature.
• Have the authority to appoint or remove all employees serving under their office in
accordance with Section 401 of the New York State County Law, Section 3 of the Public
Officers Law and Civil Services Law.
• Administer and enforce the New York State Fire Reporting Program. AKA NERIS
• Administer the Plan for Arson Control for Cayuga County and oversee the operations of the
Cayuga County Fire Investigation Unit.
• Assure the adequate distribution of fire equipment within Cayuga County during emergencies
including but not limited to a County or State declared State of Emergency. During such
emergencies, he may at his discretion re-deploy equipment to assure adequate resources and
coverage throughout the County. When equipment is relocated as requested by the Fire
Coordinator or his representative, responsibility for damages or loss of equipment remains
the obligation of the individual department. Upon assignment to an incident, the loss or
damage becomes the responsibility of the department requiring or requesting Mutual Aid
resources.

154

•

Other duties and authorities as determined by the Director of the Cayuga County Office of
Emergency Services, the Cayuga County Judicial & Public Safety Committee, and the Cayuga
County Legislature.

APPENDIX F-1

155

156

APPENDIX F-2

157

158

APPENDIX F-3
BATTALION SUMMARY

Battalion 1:

Chief Mark Fritz
City of Auburn Fire Department

Battalion 2:

Deputy Fire Coordinator Jeff Dygert
06004- Cato Fire Department
06006- Conquest Fire Department
06007-Fair Haven Fire Department
06010-Ira Fire Department
06025-Victory Fire Department
34021-Jordan Fire Department* Onondaga County
59016-Red Creek Fire Department* Wayne County

Battalion 3:

Deputy Fire Coordinator Travis Poole

Change to Nicpon

06002-Aurelius Fire Department
06005-Cayuga Fire Department
06008-Fleming Fire Department
06014-Montezuma Fire Department
06024-Union Springs Fire Department

Battalion 4:

Deputy Fire Coordinator David James
06017-Owasco Fire Department
06019-Port Byron Fire Department
06022-Sennett Fire Department
06023-Throop Fire Department
06026-Weedsport Fire Department

159

BATTALION SUMMARY (continued)
Battalion 5:

Deputy Fire Coordinator Dave Newert
06002-Aurora Fire Department
06009-Genoa Fire Department
06011-King Ferry Fire Department
06013-Long Hill Fire Department
06020-Scipio Fire Department

Battalion 6:

Deputy Fire Coordinator Dave Newert

Change to Seemans

06012-Locke Fire Department
06015-Moravia Fire Department
06021-Sempronius Fire Department
06027-West Niles Fire Department

160

APPENDIX G
Apparatus Typing
Cayuga County recognizes the following as apparatus based upon FEMA Standards,
NFPA Standards and other applicable information.
Engine/Pumper
Quick (Initial) Attack Apparatus
Tanker Pumper
Tanker
Rescue Pumper
Heavy Rescue
Light Rescue
Quint
Aerial
Brush
Specialty (Squad, Command, ATV/UTV, Boat)
These types of apparatus are organized in the following manner:
Letter – Name
Intended Purpose SCBA Capacity Minimum –
Pump Capacity Minimum –
Tank Capacity Minimum –
Hose Supply Aerial Device / Ground Ladder(s) –
Equipment Required EMS Capable -If required

161

Apparatus Typing (continued)
A. Engine/Pumper
Purpose: Fire Suppression, Primary Attack
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles Pump: 1,000GPM
Tank: 500gl.
Hose Supply: 400’ 1.5-1.75” Attack line / 800’ 2.5”or greater LDH Supply Line
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): One 24’ Extension, One 14-16’ Roof
Equipment: Flathead Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan, 6 and 8’ pike poles, ventilation fan
B. Quick Attack
Purpose: Fire Suppression, Primary Attack prior to Engine/Pumper arrival
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: 250 GPM
Tank: 200gl.
Hose Supply: 400’ 1.5” or greater, 300’ of 2.5” or greater
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): 12’
C. Tanker-Pumper
Purpose: Cross Function; Fire Suppression, capable of Primary Attack or Mobile Water
Supply as needed
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: 1,000GPM
Tank: 1,500gl.
Hose Supply:150’ 1.5-1.75” Attack Line / 800’ 2.5” or greater LDH Supply Line
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): One 24’ Extension, One 14-16’ Roof
Equipment: Portable Pond Equal to or Greater than tank capacity, Dump Chute, Flathead
Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan, 6 and 8’ pike poles, ventilation fan
D. Tanker
Purpose: Mobile Water Supply for Attack apparatus
SCBA: Optional, not required
Pump: Optional, not required
Tank: 2,000gl.
Hose Supply: 200’ 2.5” or greater LDH Supply Line
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Portable Pond Equal to or Greater than tank capacity, Dump Chute

162

Apparatus Typing (continued)
E. Quint
Purpose: Cross function; capable of Fire Suppression - Primary Attack or Aerial -Rescue
and Ventilation
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: 1,000GPM
Tank: 300 gl.
Hose Supply: 150’ 1.5-1.75” Attack Line, 150’ 2.5” Attack Line, LDH Supply Line
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): 75’ Aerial, full complement of ground ladders per NFPA standard
Equipment: Flathead Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan, 6 and 8’ pike poles, ventilation fan,
Salvage and Overhaul tools
F. Aerial/Ladder
Purpose: Provide ladder with or without platform for Rescue and Ventilation
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: Not required
Tank: Optional, not required
Hose Supply: Optional, not required
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): 75’Aerial, full complement of ground ladders per NFPA standard
Equipment: Flathead Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan, 6 and 8’ pike poles, ventilation fan,
Salvage and Overhaul tools
G. Rescue Pumper
Purpose: Cross function, capable of Fire Suppression -Primary Attack or Rescue/Vehicle
Extrication
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: 1000GPM
Tank: 500gl.
Hose Supply: 120’ 1.5-1.75” Attack Line, 150’ 2.5” Attack Line, 500’ LDH Supply Hose
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): 24’ Extension, 14-16’ Roof
Equipment: Extrication tools, full complement Cutter/Spreader/Ram, Vehicle stabilization
tools, Flathead Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan
EMS Capable: Yes

163

Apparatus Typing (continued)
H. Heavy Rescue
Purpose: Rescue/Vehicle Extrication
SCBA: 4 Total SCBA, with 4 spare bottles
Pump: No water pump, may have CAFS or Foam System
Tank: No water tank, may be Foam Equipped
Hose Supply: None
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Vehicle Extrication equipment for heavy use, 2 full complements of
Cutter/Spreader/Ram, Vehicle stabilization tools to include both airbags and struts,
Flathead Axe, Pickhead Axe, Halligan, Specialty Rescue Equipment (ie: Ice, Grain Bin,
Trench, Rope etc.)
EMS Capable: Yes
I. Rescue
Purpose: Rescue/EMS
SCBA: Optional, not required
Pump: No water pump, may have CAFS or Foam System
Tank: No water tank, may be Foam Equipped
Hose Supply: None
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Vehicle Extrication equipment, Flathead Axe, Pick head Axe, Halligan,
Specialty Rescue Equipment (ie: Ice, Grain Bin, Trench, Rope etc.)
EMS Capable: Yes
J. Brush Truck
Purpose: Fire Suppression - Field and Woodland Fires, Off Road 4x4
SCBA: Optional, not required
Pump: 120GPM
Tank: 125gl. Or greater
Hose Supply: 300’ forestry hose
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Forestry hand tools, Portable spray pumps
K. Squad
Purpose: Transport personnel and specialized equipment, not otherwise classified above
SCBA: Optional, not required
Pump: Optional, not required Tank: Optional, not required Hose Supply: None.
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required Equipment: Optional, not required

164

Apparatus Typing (continued)
L. Specialty Vehicles
Purpose: Transport personnel and specialized equipment, not otherwise classified above.
May be ATV/UTV, Boat, Other
SCBA: Optional, not required Pump: Optional, not required Tank: Optional, not required
Hose Supply: None.
Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Optional, not required
SEFU: Storm Emergency Fire Unit
Purpose: A SEFU may be requested for response to Storm Damaged areas. While a SEFU is
a dedicated type of request, it may be many of the above vehicles that meet the required
specifications listed here:
4x4: Vehicle MUST be Department Owned 4 Wheel Drive Pickup or Similar Size
SCBA: 2, with 2 spare cylinders
Pump: Portable Pump
Tank: Optional, not required
Hose Supply: Hard Suction Hose with Strainer, 200’ of Discharge Hose, Necessary
Fittings/Adapters Aerial Device/Ladder(s): Optional, not required
Equipment: Portable Generator with Electric Adapters to Household Receptacles, Portable
Lighting for Night Operations, Fuel Can for Pump and Generator, Chainsaw with Fuel on
Oil, Two Shovels, Carbon Monoxide Detector, 2.5Gl. Water Extinguisher, Minimum 10lb.
CO2 or Dry Chemical Extinguisher.
Personnel: 2 Firefighters with PPE, and provisions for a minimum of 24 hours including
food and water. Reference deployment schedules for specifics.

165

NIMS/FEMA Typing
Engine

Pump Capacity

Tank Capacity

Seat Capacity

Type I
Type II
Type III
Type IV

1000 G.P.M.
500 G.P.M.
150 G.P.M.
50 G.P.M.

300 Gal.
300 Gal.
500 Gal.
750 Gal.

4
4
3
2

Brush/Attack Truck
Type V
50 G.P.M.
Type VI
50 G.P.M.
Type VII
10 G.P.M.

400 Gal.
150 Gal.
50 Gal.

2
2
2

Tactical Water Tender
Type I
250 G.P.M.
Type II
250 G.P.M.

2,000 Gal.
1,000 Gal.

2
2

Support Water Tender
Type I
300 G.P.M.
Type II
200 G.P.M.
Type III
200 G.P.M.

4,000 Gal.
2,500 Gal.
1,000 Gal.

2
2
1

Ladder/Platform
Type I
500 G.P.M.
Type II
500 G.P.M.

Aerial Height
75 Ft. or Greater
50-75 Ft

4
4

166

Fire Equipment By NIMS/FEMA Type
( For additional information, refer to the Resource Guide )
County Owned Equipment
Heavy Rescue – 1
Type 1 Engine -1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 20
Auburn
Heavy Rescue – 1
Type 1 Engine – 3
Type 1 Ladder/Platform – 3
Type 2 Ladder/Platform – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 6
Aurelius
Heavy Rescue – 1
Type 1 Engine – 2
Type 2 Tanker – 1
Type 1 Ladder/Platform – 1
Squad – 2
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2
Aurora
Rescue – 1
Type 1 Engine – 1
Type 1 Tanker – 1
Type 1 Ladder/Platform – 1
Type V Brush Truck – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Cato
Type 1 Engine – 2
Type 1 Tanker – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2

167

Cayuga
Type 1 Engine – 2
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Conquest
Type 1 Engine – 1
Type 2 Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Fair Haven
Type 1 Engine – 2
Type 1 Tanker – 1
Rescue – 2
Type 6 Brush Truck – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 5
Fleming
Type 1 Engine – 3
Type 1 Ladder/Platform – 1
Genoa
Type 1 Engine – 2
Type 1 Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Ira
Type 1 Engine – 1
Type 1 Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1

168

Jordan
Type I Engine – 2
Quick Attack – 1
Type II Tender – 1
Rescue – 1
Type I Ladder/Platform – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 3
King Ferry
Type I Engine – 1
Type VII Brush Truck – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Locke
Type I Engine – 4
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Long Hill
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Montezuma
Type I Engine – 1
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Type I Tanker – 2
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1

169

Moravia
Type I Engine – 1
Quick Attack – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Type I Ladder/Platform – 1
Heavy Rescue – 1
Squad – 2
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2
New Hope
Type I Engine -1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue -2
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Owasco
Type I Engine – 3
Heavy Rescue – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 3
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2
Poplar Ridge
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Port Byron
Type I Engine – 2
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1

170

Scipio
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Heavy Rescue – 1
Squad -1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 3
Sempronius
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1
Sennett
Type I Engine – 3
Type I Tanker – 1
Heavy Rescue – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 3
Throop
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2
Union Springs
Type I Engine – 2
Type I Ladder/Platform – 1
Type VI Brush Truck - 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Heavy Rescue – 1
Rescue – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 3
171

Victory
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Squad – 1
Weedsport
Type I Engine – 1
Type I Ladder/Platform – 1
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Squad – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 2
West Niles
Type I Engine – 1
Type VI Brush Truck – 1
Type I Tanker – 1
Rescue – 1
Specialty/Support Vehicles – 1

172

APPENDIX-H
CAYUGA COUNTY FIRE DEPAERTMENT ADDRESSES
Auburn Fire Department
31 Seminary Street
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-253-4031

Aurelius Fire Department
6320 Half Acre Road
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-252-1943

Aurora Fire Department
456 Main Street
Aurora, NY 13026
Phone: 315-364-8590

Cato Fire Department
2569 East Main Street
Cato, NY 13033
Phone: 315-626-2660

Cayuga Fire Department
6233 Court Street
Cayuga, NY 13034
Phone: 315-252-9090

Conquest Fire Department
10351 Slayton Road
Port Byron, NY 13140
Phone: 315-776-4512

Fair Haven Fire Department
14447 Shortcut Road
Fair Haven, NY 13064
Phone: 315-947-5145

Fleming Fire Department
6063 West Lake Road
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-252-6902

Genoa Fire Department
10015 Route 90
Genoa, NY 13071
Phone: 315-497-0611

Ira Fire Department
12591 Route 176
Cato, NY 13033
Phone: 315-626-2607

Jordan Fire Department
1 North Hamilton Street
Jordan, NY 13080
Phone: 315-689-3923

King Ferry Fire Department
1101 State Route 34B
King Ferry, NY 13081
Phone: 315-364-8940

Locke Fire Department
900 Main Street
Locke, NY 13092
Phone: 315-497-0595

Long Hill Fire Department
3513 Long Hill Road
Scipio, NY 13147
Phone: 315-497-3805

173

Cayuga County Fire Department Addresses (continued)
Montezuma Fire Department
8115 High Street
Montezuma, NY 13117
Phone: 315-776-4353

Moravia Fire Department
38 Keeler Ave.
Moravia, NY 13118
Phone: 315-497-1700

New Hope Fire Department
5949 New Hope Road
Moravia, NY 13118
Phone: 315-497-0448

Owasco Fire Department
7174 Owasco Road
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-253-9197

Poplar Ridge Fire Department
2485 Route 34B
Poplar Ridge, NY 13139
Phone: 315-364-7344

Port Byron Fire Department
50 Utica Street
Port Byron, NY 13140
Phone: 315-776-8670

Red Creek Fire Department
7026 Main Street
Red Creek, NY 13143
Phone: 315-754-6489

Scipio Fire Department
3550 State Route 34
Scipio, NY 13147
Phone: 315-364-7323

Sempronius Fire Department
2284 Route 41A
Moravia, NY 13118
Phone: 315-496-2084

Sennett Fire Department
3526 Franklin Street Rd.
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-252-3993

Throop Fire Department
7159 Beach Tree Road
Auburn, NY 13021
Phone: 315-252-4051

Union Springs Fire Department
257 Cayuga Street
Cayuga, NY 13160
Phone: 315-889-7614

Victory Fire Department
12001 Route 38
Cato, NY 13033
Phone: 315-626-6866

Weedsport Fire Department
8892 South Street
Weedsport, NY 13166
Phone: 315-834-9754

West Niles Fire Department
3956 Valentine Road
Moravia, NY 13118
Phone: 315-784-5077

174

1-26-JP-6
RESOLUTION NO. ______

01/27/26

PRO IPPC Technologies, Inc. Agreement rev 3

Authorizing the Chairperson of the Legislature to execute an agreement between the Cayuga County Probation
Department and IPPC Technologies, Inc. for monitoring services for sex offenders.

BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, the Probation Department is currently responsible for monitoring computers, devices, and internet access of sex
offenders under probation supervision; and
WHEREAS, the Department currently has no system in place for monitoring computers, devices, and internet access of sex
offenders under probation supervision; and
WHEREAS, monitoring of devices is strongly urged by the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Several Counties utilize, IPPC Technologies, Inc; and
WHEREAS, to address the State recommendations, the Probation Department request the use of IPPC Technologies Solution
program to provide the Department the ability to monitor internet capable devices consistently for all Sex Offender Probation
cases; and
WHEREAS, this service will assist in addressing the problems mentioned above as well as allow the Department to address
any violations in Court with verifiable proof; and
WHEREAS, IPPC Technologies, Inc. has been reviewed in collaboration with the County Attorney and the IT Department; and
WHEREAS, the services provided by IPPC Technologies, Inc. would be at the cost of the Offender and have no financial
obligation by the County; now therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Chair of the Cayuga County Legislature is hereby authorized to enter into a contract with IPPC
Technologies, Inc. for IPPC Services for the Cayuga County Probation Department for one year effective February 1, 2026 and
ending January 31, 2027.

1-26-JP-7
RESOLUTION NO.

01/27/2026

SHR GALLS Uniform rev

Authorize the Cayuga County Sheriff and the Chairman of the Cayuga County Legislature to
renew a contract with Galls LLC to supply uniforms for the Cayuga County Custody and Patrol
Divisions
BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, Galls LLC is included in the extension with NYS OGS on the NY State Hire Contract #
PC69021; and
WHEREAS, Galls LLC exclusively provides an online purchasing system for police and custody uniform
items that is more efficient and provides better tracking and approval system for the purchase of uniforms;
and
WHEREAS, the Sheriff’s Office has utilized Galls LLC as a vendor for a number of years and has found
that their exclusive online ordering platform and pricing has made them the best choice for uniform
vendor for the agency; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Sheriff and the Chairman of the Cayuga County Legislature are
authorized to enter into a contract renewal with Galls LLC to effectuate the intent of this Resolution for a
term through May 31, 2028, upon review and approval as to form by the County Attorney; and be it
further.
RESOLVED that the contract renewal will be compliant with the Cayuga County Procurement Policy.

1-26-JP-8
RESOLUTION NO.______________

1/27/26

STOP DWI Authorize Funding for After Prom Events

Authorizing the Disbursement of Planned Annual Appropriations to the Cayuga County Schools for After Prom
Events for Academic Year 2025-2026 from the STOP DWI Program Budget
BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, The Cayuga County Stop DWI Program was created by the Cayuga County Legislature and a Coordinator
appointed by the Chairperson of the Legislature in November of 1981, per the requirement established by New York State
V&T Law 1197; and
WHEREAS, this County Stop DWI Program is solely funded by the fines and tickets collected by the court pursuant to
penalties charged for driving while intoxicated; and
WHEREAS, based on these total funds received, and the guidelines set forth in V&T Law 1197, appropriations are
planned out by the Coordinator of the Stop DWI Program through the relevant annual budget; and
WHEREAS, the planned appropriations include distributions made annually to each of the Cayuga County High Schools
in the amount of $350; and
WHEREAS, the disbursements occur upon receipt of relevant reports as requested by the STOP DWI
Coordinator that identifies use of the funds specifically for their After Prom Events; now therefore it be
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Legislature hereby authorizes the annual planned disbursement to
each approved Cayuga County High School in the amount of $350 for the academic year 2025-2026 ending
June 30, 2026; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the Finance Director is hereby authorized and directed to make such journal entries and payout the
disbursements upon receipt of the required reports, not to exceed the capped maximum appropriation planned out in the
relevant annual budget, as may be necessary to carry out the intent of this resolution.

1-29-JP-9
RESOLUTION NO. _________________ 1/27/26

STOP DWI Plan Leg Approval

Authorizing the Legislative Approval of the 2026 Cayuga County STOP DWI Plan
BY:

Hon. Mark Strong, Chair, Judicial & Public Safety Committee
Hon. Elane Daly, Chair, Ways & Means Committee

WHEREAS, The Cayuga County Stop DWI Program was created by the Cayuga County Legislature and a
Coordinator appointed by the Chairperson of the Legislature in November of 1981, per the requirement
established by New York State V&T Law 1197; and
WHEREAS, this County Stop DWI Program is solely funded by the fines and tickets collected by the court
pursuant to penalties charged for driving while intoxicated; and
WHEREAS, based on these total funds received, and the guidelines set forth in V&T Law 1197, appropriations
are planned out by the Coordinator of the Stop DWI Program through the relevant annual budget; and
WHEREAS, a County STOP DWI Plan must be submitted annually for approval by the NYS Governor’s
Traffic Safety Committee; and
WHEREAS, the final step in the approval process is for the Cayuga County Legislature to approve the 2026
STOP DWI Plan; and
WHEREAS, the 2026 Cayuga County Budget was adopted on 12/9/25, Resolution 467-25, and reflects the
approved expenditure amounts listed on the 2026 STOP DWI Plan now therefore it be
RESOLVED, that the Cayuga County Legislature hereby approves the 2026 Cayuga County STOP DWI Plan in
the amount of $83,700.