**All Hazard Incident -- [Support Information]{.underline}**

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Table of Contents

HELPFUL LINKS 2

NMAC letter, September 09, 2005 3

NMAC letter, September 03, 2005 4

SAFETY 6

[All Hazard Incident Relief \-- Safety Considerations for Incoming
Support Personnel
6](#all-hazard-incident-relief----safety-considerations-for-incoming-support-personnel)

[General INCIDENT RISK ANALYSIS for All Hazard Incident Support
7](#general-incident-risk-analysis-for-all-hazard-incident-support)

[Live Watchouts: 9](#live-watchouts)

[All Hazard Incidents in the U.S.: Interim Health Recommendations for
Relief Workers
12](#all-hazard-incidents-in-the-u.s.-interim-health-recommendations-for-relief-workers)

[Self-Care Tips for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers
17](#self-care-tips-for-emergency-and-disaster-response-workers)

[ADMINISTRATION 19](#administration)

[Business Information for All Hazard Incident Response \-- 09/03/2005,
1200
19](#business-information-for-all-hazard-incident-response----09032005-1200)

[BLM \-- Instruction Memorandum FA IM-2005-029
20](#blm----instruction-memorandum-fa-im-2005-029)

[NATIONAL RESPONSE PLAN 23](#national-response-plan)

[Scope of Emergency Support Functions (ESF)
23](#scope-of-emergency-support-functions-esf)

[Emergency Support Function #4 -- Firefighting Annex
24](#emergency-support-function-4-firefighting-annex)

# 

# 

# HELPFUL LINKS

<http://gacc.nifc.gov/sacc/index.htm>

<http://www.nws.noaa.gov/>

<http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/hurricaneRecovery.html>

<http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/index.asp>

<http://www.areacommand.net/>

<http://www.fireteams.net/>

<http://gacc.nifc.gov/sacc/predictive/intelligence/Resource_Map.pdf>

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National Interagency Fire Center

3838 S. Development Avenue

Boise, Idaho 83705

September 9, 2005

To: Geographic Area Coordinating Groups

Area Command and Incident Management Teams

From: National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group

Subject: All Hazard Recovery Effort Length of Assignment

The purpose of this memo is to provide consistency in the application of
the NWCG length of assignment policy during the all hazard disaster
recovery effort. The National Multi-Agency Coordinating Group (NMAC)
understands that responding to a natural disaster of this magnitude
demands extraordinary effort and sacrifice, and that strict adherence to
our length of assignment policy is not always possible. The following
policy modification is being implemented in order for responders from
the wildland fire community to provide a seamless effort during the
first 30 days of the response.

Currently our policy allows for a standard assignment of 14 days, with
an extension of up to 30 days after taking two days off between the
14^th^ and the 21^st^ day. For the first 30 days of the all hazard
recovery effort, the NMAC is asking that Incident Management Teams
monitor the health of their employees and manage for fatigue as they
determine necessary.

Depending on the nature of assignment, some teams may rotate out after
14 days, while others may complete a 30 day assignment with appropriate
fatigue mitigation measures.

As always, Incident Management Teams are expected to keep the health and
safety of their employees as their highest priority. As our country
works through this emergency, we will continue to discuss the issue with
Area Command Teams and Geographic Areas.

/s/ Don Artley

Chair, NMAC

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National Interagency Fire Center

3838 S. Development Avenue

Boise, Idaho 83705

September 3, 2005

To: All Personnel

From: National Multi Agency Coordinating Group

Subject: All Hazard Recovery Effort Incident Assignments -- What to
Expect

The purpose of this memo is to provide advance notice to personnel of
what to expect when mobilized to assist in all hazard recovery efforts.
Under the National Response Plan, wildland fire resources may assist in
response to national emergencies. To date, the primary job of our
responders has been to staff distribution centers, base camps, and
mobilization centers; however there are occasions where activities may
expose personnel to a variety of hazards.

**[Conditions]{.underline}**

With few exceptions, dispatched resources will be working for
established Type 1 or Type 2 Incident Management Teams (IMTs), and the
organizational structure will be similar to that of a wildland fire
assignment. Most Incident Command Posts (ICPS) are located some distance
from the center of the all hazard incident; however there is no
assurance that community infrastructures are intact. Attached to this
memo is a two page summary developed by the safety and health
coordination team on site. It provides a preliminary listing of the
conditions responders might expect, and some advice on how best to
prepare for them in advance. We advise that all responders familiarize
themselves with this briefing before their departure.

**[Immunizations]{.underline}**

The Fire, Aviation Safety Team consulted with Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention and U.S. Public Health Service resulting in the
following direction for all Wildland fire agencies responding to all
hazard incidents:

1.  [Diphtheria/Tetanus]{.underline}: All employees responding to all
    hazard incidents should have received a Diphtheria/Tetanus booster
    within the last 10 years as part of routine medical care. Those
    likely to be mobilized are encouraged to be current with this
    recommendation or obtain the diphtheria/tetanus booster prior to
    being dispatched. However, mobilization should not be delayed in
    order to do so. Those at highest risk are employees in the process
    of debris cleanup, tree removal and cuts by nails or sharp objects.
    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U. S. Public
    Health Service advises that it is accepted medical protocol for a
    diphtheria/tetanus booster to be administered, if needed, shortly
    after an injury occurs for those individuals already deployed.

2.  [Hepatitis A]{.underline}: The CDC does not believe responders to
    all hazard incidents are at high risk for hepatitis A, and therefore
    are not recommending hepatitis A vaccinations. Good personal
    hygiene, ingesting clean food and water, and hand washing will
    prevent hepatitis A.

3.  [Hepatitis B:]{.underline} Most responders do not need hepatitis B.
    Only personnel providing direct patient care require this vaccine.
    Incident management teams will coordinate with medical providers on
    site to determine if this vaccination is considered necessary.

When resources obtain a pre-mobilization tetanus booster at their home
unit, the cost will be borne by that unit. It is important that receipts
and other records be kept so that reimbursement can occur if
authorization is received.

The Federal Fire and Aviation Safety Team (FFAST) is providing direct
liaison between NMAC and the health and safety coordinating team on
site. Should you have any questions, or require further information,
please contact your member of that team. They are:

John Gould -- B IA

Michelle Ryerson -- BLM

Al King -- NPS

Rod Bloms -- USFWL

Ed Hollenshead - FS

/s/ Don Artley

Chair, NMAC

# SAFETY

# 

## All Hazard Incident Relief \-- Safety Considerations for Incoming Support Personnel

The mission of the Forest Service and cooperating agencies under the
National Response Plan is to support the federal government's effort to
bring emergency relief supplies to the all hazard damaged areas. As
requested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Forest
Service provides logistical support such as managing base camps for
field hospitals, receiving and distributing trucks and aircraft with
relief supplies and managing the care, feeding and logistical support of
thousands of relief workers and elderly infirmed care for persons unable
to evacuate workers and volunteers. This is life-sustaining work to the
hundreds of thousands of Americans impacted by the recent all hazard
incident.

Much of the work tasked is novel to the Forest Service and our partner
agencies that have expertise in forest and range "wildland" management.
Due to the novelty of the work, special safety considerations must be
given.

**[Prior to Departure from your Home Unit]{.underline}:**

Obtain as much information as possible concerning expected living
conditions. If you are ordered to a coordination center, you will likely
have access to telephone service, restaurants and hotel lodging. If you
are ordered to a logistical support center or other "field assignment"
you may be living and working under primitive conditions.

**[Safety Considerations for Persons Ordered to Field
Assignments]{.underline}:**

Expect that you are going into a desperate situation. For the duration
of your tour, plan on no electricity, no refrigeration and no telephone
communications. In contrast to a "fire camp" you should assume that
there will be no Supply Unit available. Therefore bring with you the
following:

-   fresh refill of any necessary prescriptions

-   three MREs or other non-perishable meals

-   a tent

-   rain gear

-   insect repellent

-   light sleeping bag

-   flashlight and extra batteries

-   hard hat

-   gloves

-   first-aid kit with aspirin, Band-Aids, etc.

-   sleeping pad if you have room.

-   cash -- (credit cards require phone lines)

-   portable water purifier

If you are driving, bring a few cases of water with you. If flying in,
purchase extra water when you have the opportunity.

## General INCIDENT RISK ANALYSIS for All Hazard Incident Support

+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **HAZARDOUS     | **MITIGATIONS/WARNINGS/REMEDIES**                  |
| ACTIONS OR      |                                                    |
| CONDITIONS**    |                                                    |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| 1.              | Alert all personnel to the threat of dehydration   |
|                 | and the symptoms of heat stress. Caution personnel |
| **PERSONNEL     | to allow time (days) to acclimate to high          |
| WELFARE, HEAT   | humidity. Follow work/rest ratio.                  |
| STRESS &        |                                                    |
| DEHYDRATION AND |                                                    |
| FATIGUE**       |                                                    |
|                 |                                                    |
| **DISEASE?**    |                                                    |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **TRAVEL,       | -   In all hazard incident impacted areas do not   |
| GETTING LOST,   |     depend on cell or land-line coverage. If you   |
| STUCK, OUT OF   |     get lost, stuck in the mud or high water, or   |
| GAS, OUT OF     |     trapped by fallen power lines or trees it may  |
| CELL            |     be a very long time before being found.        |
| COVERAGE**.     |                                                    |
|                 | -   Expect gasoline shortages or pumps not working |
|                 |     in all hazard incident impacted areas.         |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Travel consideration for driving through all   |
|                 |     hazard incident impacted areas:                |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Carry at least \$100 per person in cash or     |
|                 |     traveler's checks (in areas of power outages,  |
|                 |     credit cards will likely not be accepted)      |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Refill gas tank at ½ empty.                    |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Travel with 2+ persons/vehicle on trips        |
|                 |     greater than 2 hours.                          |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Check air pressure in spare tire prior to      |
|                 |     departure.                                     |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Ensure positive ETA and ROUTE information is   |
|                 |     conveyed to a contact person at your           |
|                 |     destination or your supervisor. Ensure the     |
|                 |     contact person / supervisor will initiate a    |
|                 |     search along your intended route if you don't  |
|                 |     arrive within a pre-specified time limit.      |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Confirm that all personnel do not begin travel |
|                 |     unless they have enough water, non-perishable  |
|                 |     food and necessary Prescriptions etc., to be   |
|                 |     entirely self sufficient for 48 hours.         |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Continuously listen to local radio stations    |
|                 |     (not satellite stations, rebroadcast stations, |
|                 |     CD's, tapes etc,) for weather alerts,          |
|                 |     evacuation notifications, washed out roads,    |
|                 |     and gasoline status information                |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| ######          | -   Utilize only licensed and qualified drivers.   |
|                 |     Note Region 8 requires a Government Motor     |
| DRIVING \~ RISK |     Vehicle Operator's ID card for all persons     |
| OF COLLISIONS.  |     operating an owned or rented vehicle.          |
|                 |                                                    |
| ######          | -   Drivers may not use cell phones when moving.   |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Adhere to incident driving guidance (rest      |
|                 |     requirements) found in the interagency         |
|                 |     incident business management handbook.         |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Pre-plan route and avoid local roads.          |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   Drive only during daylight hours in areas on   |
|                 |     impacted areas.                                |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | -   When driving in all hazard-impacted areas,     |
|                 |     brief drivers on caution for confused deer,    |
|                 |     loose livestock, flooded low areas, washed out |
|                 |     culverts and bridges that may have undercut    |
|                 |     foundations, inoperable traffic lights, blown  |
|                 |     down stop signs and debris in roadways.        |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| ####            | All personnel will have adequate foot gear (no     |
|                 | open shoes) and rain parkas or rain suits.         |
| **EXPOSURE TO   | Additional PPE may be required at work areas.      |
| ENVIRONMENTAL   | Prior to entering a work area, obtain a briefing   |
| ELEMENTS,       | from the official in charge pertaining to required |
| VARIOUS WORK    | PPE and other safety information. See Emergency    |
| HAZARDS**       | Stabilization JHA.                                 |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **DESPERATE     | Avoid stopping except in secure locations. If you  |
| SURVIVORS**     | are forced to stop, remain calm and be compliant   |
|                 | with requests. Do not put yourself in danager by   |
|                 | trying to defend your belongings or vehicles. Get  |
|                 | out of the situations as quickly as possible.      |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **C             | Out side of incident radio coverage area, carry a  |
| OMMUNICATIONS** | cellular phone but do not depend on cell coverage  |
|                 | being available even in cities.                    |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **AIRCRAFT OR   | Only qualified personnel will work around          |
| FLYING**        | aircraft. If flying in contract aircraft, ensure   |
|                 | pilot and aircraft are currently certificated and  |
|                 | obtain a preflight briefing from the pilot.        |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+

+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **HAZARDOUS     | > **MITIGATIONS/WARNINGS/REMEDIES**                |
| ACTIONS OR      |                                                    |
| CONDITIONS**    |                                                    |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| **POISONIOUS    | > See **Southeast (live) Watchouts document for    |
| INSECTS/        | > listing.** Utilize common mitigation measures-   |
| SPIDERS/        | > avoidance of usual habitat; look up- down and    |
| CATAPILLARS/    | > around prior to proceeding. Where appropriate    |
| SNAKES/         | > protective clothing. Utilize repellents. Special |
| PLANTS-NUISANCE | > considerations:                                  |
| INSECTS, BEES** | >                                                  |
|                 | > After a flood, storms, or hurricane, snakes are  |
|                 | > forced into places where they usually are not    |
|                 | > found. Take the following precautions if you     |
|                 | > live in an area where poisonous snakes are       |
|                 | > common.                                          |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 1.  Know how to identify poisonous snakes common   |
|                 |     to your area.                                  |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 2.  Be alert for snakes in unusual places. They    |
|                 |     may be found in or around homes, barns,        |
|                 |     outbuildings, driftwood, levees, dikes, dams,  |
|                 |     stalled automobiles, piles of debris, building |
|                 |     materials, trash, or any type of rubble or     |
|                 |     shelter.                                       |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 3.  Keep a heavy stick or some other weapon handy. |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 4.  Search the premises thoroughly for snakes      |
|                 |     before beginning any cleanup or rescue         |
|                 |     operations. Snakes may be under or near any    |
|                 |     type of protective cover.                      |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 5.  In rescue or cleanup operations, wear heavy    |
|                 |     leather or rubber high-topped boots, and heavy |
|                 |     gloves. Wear trouser legs outside boots. Be    |
|                 |     extremely careful around debris. Use rakes,    |
|                 |     pry bars, or other long-handled tools when     |
|                 |     removing debris. Never expose your hands,      |
|                 |     feet, or other parts of your body in a place   |
|                 |     where a snake might hide.                      |
|                 |                                                    |
|                 | 6.  Carry a strong light after dark                |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| > **POWER       | > Assume all power lines are hot unless positive   |
| > LINES**       | > confirmation is received to the contrary from a  |
|                 | > qualified electrician or utility company         |
|                 | > representative. Caution employees that household |
|                 | > generators may transmit power back through power |
|                 | > lines.                                           |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| >               | > Assume all water is contaminated unless you saw  |
|  **CONTAMINATED | > the bottle it came from. Municipal water         |
| > WATER**       | > supplies in severely storm damaged areas are     |
|                 | > also likely contaminated.                        |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+
| > **ADDITIONAL  | > Monitor local forecasts and warning/watch        |
| > STORMS/HUR    | > alerts. Follow local evacuation/shelter          |
| RICANES/FLOODS/ | > protocols from local officials.                  |
| > LIGHTNING**   |                                                    |
+-----------------+----------------------------------------------------+

##  Live Watchouts:

**[Poisonous Insects:]{.underline}** (pictures can be found at:
[http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/BODY_IG099 -
TABLE_2](http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/BODY_IG099#TABLE_2))

-   **Wheel Bug**: looks like a wood borer, has a cog-like wheel on
    thorax, dark gray, with a red biting mouth that injects a painful
    venom.

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-   **Fire ants**: one or two bites annoying but they swarm when the
    mound is disturbed. Flooded fire ant colonies are "disturbed" and
    will swarm together and float to a dry area or tree canopy to escape
    water.

-   **Vinegaroon**: Resembles a scorpion but without a stinger. Instead
    of stinging, the vinegaroon will spray its victim with an acidic
    substance that can cause painful eye irritation.

-   **Scorpion**: not as poisonous as western species but may be
    extremely painful. Florida scorpions are considered non-poisonous.

-   **Assassin** (kissing) **bug**: can be black and white or bright
    orange. Injects venom through a slender mouth tube. Extreme pain
    associated with bites.

-   **Centipede**: "Centa" meaning hundred (not as many legs as a
    *milli*pede). Poisonous front claws. Similar to a bee sting and
    similar potential for an allergic reaction.

-   **Giant Water Bug**: Large flat brown bug that can both swim and
    fly. Injects victim with a tissue dissolving venom that caused
    extreme pain and inflammation below the bite.

-   **Blister Beetle**: Ranges from black to gray, striped to brightly
    colored. Excretes juices that caused skin to blister. These "juices"
    contain cantharidin, one of the most toxic compounds produced by
    animals. Don't eat these bugs. Cows have been know to have died from
    eating hay containing these beetles.

**[Poisonous Spiders:]{.underline}**

-   **Black** (southern black widows tend to be more brownish)
    **Widow**: Common across the country distinctive red hourglass on
    underside. Always seek medical attention if bitten.

-   **Brown Recluse:** Likewise common across the country, faint to
    distinctive violin shaped mark on head. Likewise always seek medical
    attention if bitten.

**[Poisonous Caterpillars:]{.underline}** These caterpillars shed fine
spines when handled. These 5 have venom sacs connected to their spines
that can be very painful and get infected. The spines can be removed
with duck tape.

-   **Saddleback caterpillar**: Distinctive light green saddle on back
    with a brown spot in the middle.

-   **Io Caterpillar**: 2 inches long, pale green with yellow stripes.

-   **Puss Caterpillar**: 1 inch long and white to tan and common, looks
    like a pussy-willow head. The venom from the spines is one of the
    most toxic substances produced by animals. If the pain is intense,
    you've got a good dose and should seek medical attention.

-   **Slug Moth Caterpillar**: Colorful green and tufts of fine spines.

-   **Buck Moth Caterpillar**: Black with red fine spines.

**[Poisonous Snakes:]{.underline}** (an online guide to snake
identification can be found at:
<http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/natsci/herpetology/fl-guide/venomsnk.htm>)

-   **Cottonmouth**: Olive brown to black, grows up to 5 feet long, fast
    swimmer and can strike from water. Very common near, in, or over
    fresh water. Always seek medical attention if bitten.

-   **Copperhead**: Tan to golden, usually less than 3 feet long,
    reclusive, nocturnal hunter. Always seek medical attention if
    bitten.

-   **Coral snake**: North America's most toxic! banded black, yellow &
    red; "red next to yellow will kill a fellow". Bite does not leave
    fang marks. Always seek medical attention if bitten.

-   **Canebrake Rattlesnake**: Up to 5 feet long, gray-brown, likes
    swampy areas in the summer. Always seek medical attention if bitten.

-   **Pigmy Rattlesnake**: Adults are only 18 inches long, gray to
    brown, very aggressive and will chase you when disturbed. Always
    seek medical attention if bitten.

-   **Diamondback Rattlesnake**: Up to 8 (eight) feet long, yellow to
    brown diamond shaped patterns on back; aggressive and know to not
    rattle prior to striking, also known to strike repeatedly. Always
    seek medical attention if bitten.

**[Megga-fauna:]{.underline}**

-   **Alligator** and in extreme southern Florida, **Crocodile**: Just
    stay away.

-   **Black Bear** and **Wild Boar** locally common, and rarely **Bob
    Cat**, and **Cougar**: Just stay away. Boars will chase you and even
    charge groups of people.

**[Plants:]{.underline}**

-   **Poison Ivy & Poison Sumac**: Everyone knows poison ivy but
    westerners may not recognize poison sumac. It looks very similar to
    western sumac but the berries are white-ish and are throughout the
    bush. Poison sumac contains the same chemical, *urushiol* as does
    poison ivy

**[Nuisance Insects:]{.underline}**

-   **Mosquito**: West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis & St.
    Louis Encephalitis; are the three worst diseases potentially
    transmitted to humans by mosquitoes in the southeast.

-   **Chigger**s: Welcome to the south ya'll! Always pronounced in the
    plural form and you'll find out why. While not know to transmit
    diseases, these \"red bugs\" are the larvae of mites that burro into
    your skin and cause intense itching and small reddish welts. The
    intense irritation and subsequent scratching may result in secondary
    infection.

-   **Ticks**: Several different species, plentiful and lyme disease
    (occurrences throughout the south) can be debilitating.

-   **Deer Flies & No-see-ums**: quite annoying and will keep you
    slapping.

**[Bees:]{.underline}**

-   **Bumble and Honey Bee**: Allergic reactions can be extremely
    serious. Remember to scrape the stinger out not pinch it with
    tweezers.

-   **Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket**: Of these, be most concerned with
    hornets nests. If disturbed, they will swarm with potentially
    hundreds of attacks. Likewise, Yellow Jackets swarm; they nest in
    the ground and may already be disturbed by the heavy rains. Yellow
    jackets love gator-aid, soda and juice.

+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| ## All Hazard Inci                                                    |
| dents in the U.S.: Interim Health Recommendations for Relief Workers  |
|                                                                       |
| **Released:** September 2, 2005                                       |
|                                                                       |
| Relief workers are at increased risk for developing illness and       |
| injuries because of their potential exposures. In addition, they      |
| should be aware of potential hazards such as, downed power lines and  |
| security measures that may be imposed such as, curfews to prevent     |
| looting. Those who provide assistance should also pay attention to    |
| their mental health needs before, during, and after their time in the |
| field. Moreover, because relief workers' services are desperately     |
| needed, it is essential that workers remain healthy during their      |
| trip. This notice provides additional advice specific to the needs of |
| relief workers.                                                       |
|                                                                       |
| Relief workers should plan for travel with the knowledge that there   |
| may be shortages of electricity, safe water, or food distribution     |
| systems in areas affected by the all hazard incident. They should try |
| to pack to be as self-sufficient as possible and bring only those     |
| items necessary for their trip. In addition to a basic [travel health |
| kit](http://www.cdc.gov/travel/yb/index.htm), relief workers should   |
| bring the following items:                                            |
|                                                                       |
| Toiletries                                                            |
|                                                                       |
| -   Alcohol-based hand sanitizer                                      |
|                                                                       |
| -   Toilet paper                                                      |
|                                                                       |
| -   Sunblock (spf 15 or higher)                                       |
|                                                                       |
| -   Insect repellent containing DEET                                  |
|                                                                       |
| -   Menstrual supplies                                                |
|                                                                       |
| -   Extra pair of prescription glasses, copy of prescription          |
|                                                                       |
| -   Eyeglasses repair kit                                             |
|                                                                       |
| -   Contact lenses, lens cleaner, and eye glasses protective case     |
|                                                                       |
| -   Toothbrush/toothpaste                                             |
|                                                                       |
| -   Skin moisturizer                                                  |
|                                                                       |
| -   Soap, shampoo                                                     |
|                                                                       |
| -   Lip balm                                                          |
|                                                                       |
| -   Razor, extra blades\*                                             |
|                                                                       |
| -   Scissors\*                                                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Nail clippers/tweezers\*                                          |
|                                                                       |
| -   Q-tips, cotton swabs                                              |
|                                                                       |
| Clothing                                                              |
|                                                                       |
| -   Comfortable, light weight clothing                                |
|                                                                       |
| -   Long pants                                                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Long sleeved shirts                                               |
|                                                                       |
| -   Hat                                                               |
|                                                                       |
| -   Boots                                                             |
|                                                                       |
| -   Shower shoes                                                      |
|                                                                       |
| -   Rain gear                                                         |
|                                                                       |
| -   Bandana/handkerchief                                              |
|                                                                       |
| -   Towel (highly absorbent, travel towels if possible)               |
|                                                                       |
| -   Gloves\                                                           |
|     Leather gloves if physical labor will be performed; rubber gloves |
|     if handling blood or body fluids                                  |
|                                                                       |
| Activities of daily living                                            |
|                                                                       |
| -   Sunglasses                                                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Safety goggles                                                    |
|                                                                       |
| -   Water proof watch                                                 |
|                                                                       |
| -   Flashlight                                                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Spare batteries                                                   |
|                                                                       |
| -   Knife, such as a Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman\*                 |
|                                                                       |
| Security                                                              |
|                                                                       |
| -   Money belt                                                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Cash                                                              |
|                                                                       |
| -   Cell phone (with charger)                                         |
|                                                                       |
| -   Candles, matches, lighter in a ziplock bag                        |
|                                                                       |
| -   Ziplock bags                                                      |
|                                                                       |
| -   An item of comfort (i.e., family photo, spiritual or religious    |
|     material)                                                         |
|                                                                       |
| \*packed in checked baggage, may be confiscated if in carry-on on     |
| commercial airliner                                                   |
|                                                                       |
| **Risk and Health Reccomendations**                                   |
|                                                                       |
| The response to the recent hurricane will probably be both immediate  |
| and long term. Relief workers should ideally be assessed by a         |
| health-care professional at least 4-6 weeks before travel so          |
| recommended vaccines can be completed and provide maximum benefit.    |
| These recommendations apply even if travel is imminent. All relief    |
| workers with a history of incomplete or lapsed routine, "childhood"   |
| immunization schedules should be brought up-to-date for these         |
| vaccines.                                                             |
|                                                                       |
| -   **Tetanus/diphtheria (Td)** Tetanus and diphtheria toxoid         |
|     (receipt of primary series, and Td booster within 10 years).      |
|                                                                       |
| > Persons with high likelihood of exposure to blood and body fluids   |
| > such as healthcare workers:                                         |
|                                                                       |
| -   **Hepatitis B** vaccine series for persons who will be performing |
|     direct patient care or otherwise expected to have contact with    |
|     bodily fluids.                                                    |
|                                                                       |
| **Risks from Injury**                                                 |
|                                                                       |
| The risk for injury during and after a natural disaster is high.      |
| Persons who anticipate the need to travel in all hazard incident      |
| affected areas should be advised to wear sturdy footwear to protect   |
| their feet from widespread debris present in these areas.             |
| [Tetanus](http:/                                                      |
| /www2.ncid.cdc.gov/travel/yb/utils/ybGet.asp?section=dis&obj=dtp.htm) |
| is a potential health threat for persons who sustain wound injuries.  |
| Any wound or rash has the potential for becoming infected and such    |
| wounds or rashes should be assessed by a health-care provider as soon |
| as possible. Any wounds, cuts, or animal bites should be immediately  |
| cleansed with soap and clean water. Familiarity with basic first aid  |
| is advised to self-treat any injury until medical attention can be    |
| obtained.                                                             |
|                                                                       |
| **Preventing Electrocutions**                                         |
|                                                                       |
| Relief workers should be careful to avoid downed power lines. During  |
| power outages, many people use portable electrical generators         |
| (<http://www.bt.cdc.gov/poweroutage/workersafety.asp>). If the        |
| portable generator is improperly sized, installed, or operated, it    |
| can send power back to the electrical lines. This problem is called   |
| backfeed or feedback in the electrical energy in power lines.         |
| Backfeed can seriously injure or kill repair workers or people in     |
| neighboring buildings. In addition, electrical power and natural gas  |
| or propane tanks should be shut off to avoid fire, electrocution, or  |
| explosions. Battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than     |
| candles, gas lanterns, or torches, should be used.                    |
|                                                                       |
| **Risks from Food and Water **                                        |
|                                                                       |
| Natural disasters contribute to the spread of many serious food and   |
| water-borne diseases, especially since water supplies and sewage      |
| systems have been disrupted. Diarrheal diseases, due to bacteria,     |
| parasites or hepatitis can possibly occur. If a trusted source of     |
| bottled water is not available, water should be boiled or             |
| disinfected. For more details, see                                    |
| <http://www.cdc.gov/travel/foodwater.htm>.                            |
|                                                                       |
| An antibiotic for self-treatment of acute diarrhea, such as a         |
| fluoroquinolone (e.g. ciprofloxacin), can be given. Azithromycin can  |
| be used as an alternative. This medication should be taken until      |
| symptoms subside (typically 3 days). Anti-motility agents such as     |
| loperamide and diphenoxylate and/or bismuth subsalicylate             |
| (Pepto-Bismol) can reduce bowel movement frequency.                   |
|                                                                       |
| Seek medical attention for diarrhea accompanied by a high fever or    |
| blood. Additionally, replacement of lost fluids by drinking clean     |
| water is the most important means of maintaining wellness, although   |
| oral rehydration solutions are ideal for the treatment of severe      |
| diarrhea.                                                             |
|                                                                       |
| Cleaning your hands often, using soap and water (or waterless         |
| alcohol-based hand rubs when soap is not available and hands are not  |
| visibly soiled), removes potentially infectious material from your    |
| skin and helps prevent disease transmission.                          |
|                                                                       |
| **Risks from Insect Bites **                                          |
|                                                                       |
| Because of standing water in these areas, mosquito breeding can       |
| become a problem. The first mosquitoes to appear and the majority     |
| will be a nuisance and likely not transmit disease. The potential     |
| exists for outbreaks of [West                                         |
| Nile](http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/index.htm), [St.Louis  |
| Encephalitis](http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/arbor/slefact.htm), and |
| [dengue](http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/dengue/index.htm ); however  |
| this has not been typical of similar events in the U.S. Prevention of |
| mosquito bites is recommended through combined use of insect          |
| repellent containing DEET or picardin                                 |
| (<http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/mosquitorepellent.htm>),   |
| and wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors.         |
|                                                                       |
| **Risks from Snake Bites **                                           |
|                                                                       |
| Displaced reptiles, such as snakes, are likely to be found following  |
| flooding and other natural disasters. The venom of a small or         |
| immature snake can be even more concentrated than that of larger      |
| ones; therefore, all snakes should be left alone. Fewer than half of  |
| all snakebite wounds actually contain venom, however, medical         |
| attention should be immediately sought any time a bite wound breaks   |
| the skin.                                                             |
|                                                                       |
| If medical care is rapidly available, then initial treatment should   |
| include immobilization of the affected limb and minimizing physical   |
| activity as much as possible (ideally of the entire patient) while    |
| transport to a medical facility occurs. If care is delayed, then a    |
| loose fitting pressure bandage that does not restrict arterial and    |
| venous flow (but does limit lymphatic flow) is the recommended        |
| first-aid measure while the victim is moved as quickly as possible to |
| a medical facility. Tourniquets that impair blood flow to the         |
| affected limb are generally contraindicated.                          |
|                                                                       |
| Specific therapy for snakebites is controversial, and should be left  |
| to the judgment of local emergency medical personnel. Snakes tend to  |
| be active at night and in warm weather. As a precaution, boots and    |
| long pants should be worn when walking outdoors at night in areas     |
| possibly inhabited by venomous snakes. Proper protection such as the  |
| aforementioned clothing, careful attention to one\'s surroundings and |
| overall avoidance of contact are the best measures that can be taken  |
| to avoid injury.                                                      |
|                                                                       |
| **Other Health Risks **                                               |
|                                                                       |
| [Leptospiro                                                           |
| sis](http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/leptospirosis_g.htm ) |
| may occur in individuals who wade, swim, or bathe in waters           |
| contaminated by animal urine. In addition, exposure to animal bites,  |
| most notably bats or skunks in the South Central U.S, pose a          |
| potential risk for [rabies](http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies/)   |
| and other infections. Individuals who sustain a bit should seek       |
| immediate medical attention for both appropriate management of the    |
| bite wound and assessment regarding post-exposure propyhylaxis.       |
|                                                                       |
| During natural disasters, technological malfunctions may release      |
| hazardous materials (e.g., release of toxic chemicals from a point    |
| source displaced by winds or rapidly moving water). Natural disasters |
| may also lead to air pollution. Lung infections may occur after       |
| inhalation of sea water. Disasters resulting in massive structural    |
| collapse can cause the release of chemical or biologic contaminants   |
| (e.g., asbestos or arthrospores leading to fungal infections).        |
| Persons with chronic pulmonary disease may be more susceptible to     |
| adverse effects from these exposures.                                 |
|                                                                       |
| There are health risks related to extremely hot temperatures such as  |
| found in these areas (heatstroke) and the effects of the sun on the   |
| eyes (cataracts) and skin (skin cancer, sunburn), see                 |
| <http://www.cdc.gov/chooseyourcover/SunDay-brochure.htm>. Wraparound  |
| sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV ray protection should be worn  |
| for eye protection. A broad-spectrum (protection against both UVA and |
| UVB rays) sunscreen and lip screen with at least SPF 15 should be     |
| used. Become familiar with the signs of illness related to extreme    |
| heat and what to do, see                                              |
| <http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide.asp#def>.     |
|                                                                       |
| **Psychological/Emotional **                                          |
|                                                                       |
| Because of the tremendous loss of life, serious injuries, missing and |
| separated families, and destruction of whole areas, it is important   |
| that relief workers recognize the situation they encounter may be     |
| extremely stressful. Keeping an item of comfort, such as a family     |
| photo, favorite music, or religious material nearby can often offer   |
| comfort in such situations. Checking in with family members and close |
| friends from time-to-time is another means of support. For additional |
| mental health resources, see                                          |
| <http://www.bt.cdc.gov/masstra/copingpub.asp>.                        |
|                                                                       |
| On return from one of the affected areas, relief workers who are      |
| unwell or who have become injured for any reason should receive a     |
| medical evaluation. This should include psychological support and     |
| counseling as necessary. Returning relief workers should seek health  |
| care in the event of fever, rash, respiratory illness or any other    |
| unusual symptoms.                                                     |
|                                                                       |
| Additional information about all hazard relief efforts can be found   |
| at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website,            |
| <http://www.fema.gov/> and CDC Emergency Preparedness and Response    |
| website, <http://www.bt.cdc.gov/>.                                    |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|                                                                       |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| **Date:** September 2, 2005                                           |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| **Content Source:** National Center for Infectious Diseases, Division |
| of Global Migration and Quarantine                                    |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+

## Self-Care Tips for Emergency and Disaster Response Workers

### 

###### Normal Reactions to a Disaster Event

-   No one who responds to a mass casualty event is untouched by it

-   Profound sadness, grief, and anger are normal reactions to an
    abnormal event

-   You may not want to leave the scene until the work is finished

-   You will likely try to override stress and fatigue with dedication
    and commitment

-   You may deny the need for rest and recovery time

###### Signs That You May Need Stress Management Assistance

-   Difficulty communicating thoughts

-   Difficulty remembering instructions

-   Difficulty maintaining balance

-   Uncharacteristically argumentative

-   Difficulty making decisions

-   Limited attention span

-   Unnecessary risk-taking

-   Tremors/headaches/nausea

-   Tunnel vision/muffled hearing

-   Colds or flu-like symptoms.

-   Disorientation or confusion

-   Difficulty concentrating

-   Loss of objectivity

-   Easily frustrated

-   Unable to engage in problem-solving

-   Unable to let down when off duty

-   Refusal to follow orders

-   Refusal to leave the scene

-   Increased use of drugs/alcohol

-   Unusual clumsiness

> **Ways to Help Manage Your Stress**

-   Limit on-duty work hours to no more than 12 hours per day

-   Make work rotations from high stress to lower stress functions

-   Make work rotations from the scene to routine assignments, as
    practicable

-   Use counseling assistance programs available through your agency

-   Drink plenty of water and eat healthy snacks like fresh fruit and
    whole grain breads and other energy foods at the scene

-   Take frequent, brief breaks from the scene as practicable.

-   Talk about your emotions to process have seen and done

-   Stay in touch with your family and friends

-   Participate in memorials, rituals, and use of symbols as a way to
    express feelings

Pair up with a responder so that you may monitor one another\'s stress

# ADMINISTRATION

## 

## Business Information for All Hazard Incident Response \-- 09/03/2005, 1200

**[AD Hire and Use]{.underline}**

-   The 2005 AD pay plan was clarified to include the use of this hiring
    authority for FEMA mission assignments. Therefore, ADs can be used
    to fill resource orders for all hazard incident support.

-   Requests for positions not included in the current AD pay plan will
    need to have rates established and approved prior to dispatch.
    National office is currently working on a streamlined process to get
    approval.

-   Whatever policy applies to agency employees in the way of
    vaccinations will also apply to ADs. If we decide to pay for some
    vaccines for our employees we can pay for ADs as well.

**[Employee Pay]{.underline}**

-   This assignment is not covered by PL 106-558 and Public Law 107-20
    and you will not be getting full time and one half for overtime
    worked. Don't code your overtime with Prefix 11. They are asking for
    an exception but may not be approved.

-   Vaccinations for employees deployed to all hazard incidents, as
    determined by NMAC, will be charged to the appropriate "F" code.

-   Pending further direction from NMAC, employees will get a tetanus
    update if not current (within 10 years) prior to leaving. See Safety
    for further direction/clarification.

-   Only employees with a valid resource order will be compensated and
    the process to do this will be determined.

**[Temporary Appointments]{.underline}**

-   WO is in the process of working through OPM to waive the 1039
    limitation on employment. However, excess hours MAY count against
    your employees limits next year -- this has not be decided yet.

**[State/Washington Fire Service]{.underline}**

-   We are entering into an agreement with Washington DNR to supply
    state and fire service resources to the recovery efforts. This
    agreement is only for those resources that do NOT have separate
    agreements with the Forest Service already covering non-fire
    assignments. If your existing agreement covers FEMA work you will be
    dispatched under that agreement.

**[Miscellaneous]{.underline}**

-   You will need to have your government issued drivers license with
    you when you arrive. If you do not have a license you will be
    required to attend defensive driving and be issued a license. ADs
    with a letter of authorization from the forest stating they have
    defensive driving and are approved to drive should be fine.

## BLM \-- Instruction Memorandum FA IM-2005-029

United States Department of the Interior

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT\
Office of Fire and Aviation\
3833 S. Development Avenue\
Boise, Idaho 83705-5354

June 23, 2005

In Reply Refer To:

1340 (FA-107) I

EMS Transmission 06/23/05

Instruction Memorandum FA IM-2005-029

Expiration Date: 09/30/06

To: All Field Offices

From: Director, Office of Fire and Aviation

Subject: All Hazard Incident Response

**Program Area:** Non-Fire Emergency

**Purpose:** The purpose of this instruction memorandum (IM) is to
provide administrative direction (Base 8, overtime, accountable
property, charge card purchases and documentation) to Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) employees assigned to or in support of an all hazard
incident.

**Policy/Action:** [Coding Base 8 and Overtime]{.underline} -- All
hazard incident support is not a fire suppression activity; thus, the
overtime provisions of P.L. 106-558 (Wildland Fire Overtime) do not
apply. **Do not use time and attendance (T&A) hours code 113 for any all
hazard incident.** Use regular overtime codes (110, 121, 120, etc.) when
recording overtime.

However, exempt employees assigned in support of an all hazard incident
and assigned to a nonexempt position for more than 20 percent of their
work hours in any weekly tour of duty are entitled to be paid under the
Fair Labor Standards Act, 5 CFR 551.208 (d). Incident position titles
shall be indicated on the Emergency Firefighter Time Report, OF-288, to
assist home units in documenting nonexempt status for pay purposes.
Reference the Interagency Incident Business Management Handbook (IIBMH),
Chapter 10, Section 12.11a and the Office of Fire and Aviation (OF&A) IM
No. 2004-022, Emergency Incident Related Payroll Operations. Nonexempt
individuals retain their nonexempt status regardless of the emergency
work performed.

Refer to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 5, Chapter 1, Part
550 to determine if hazard pay is applicable for general schedule
employees. Refer to CFR, Title 5, Chapter 1, Part 532 for information on
environmental differential for wage grade employees.

The reason for hazard pay/environmental differential should be indicated
on the OF-288 to assist home units in applying pay regulations.

All employees working on or in support of all non-wildland fire
incidents or activities are subject to the biweekly maximum earnings
limitation. In certain circumstances, the Department of the Interior
(DOI) may waive the limitation upon request from the Bureau. The
delegation authority granted to the Director, OF&A expired in 2004. A
request for re-delegation of the authority has been initiated. However,
the authority has not been re-delegated as of the date of this memo.

The annual maximum earnings limitation rule limits an employee's basic
and premium pay to the annual salary of the greater of the maximum step
of a GS-15 grade level, including locality and/or special salary rate
pay or level V of the Executive Schedule (5 CFR 550.106(c)(1)).

The BLM is authorized to utilize, hire and pay emergency workers
(casuals/AD's) in accordance with the Pay Plan for Emergency Workers (AD
Pay Plan) to assist with this effort.

BLM personnel assigned in support of an all hazard incident will follow
direction in the OF&A IM No. 2004-009, Work/Rest and Length of
Assignment Requirements.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) policy will not reimburse
agencies for base hours for employees who are normally working at this
time; this includes all permanent, full time (PFT) employees and may
include some career seasonal and temporary employees (depending on their
normal period of funding).

> a\. BLM employees who are normally working at this time and are
> assigned to or in support of a hurricane incident will code base hours
> to their home office and program.
>
> b\. BLM career seasonal employees who are not normally funded at this
> time of year will code base hours to the appropriate reimbursable
> code. State offices, field offices and dispatch centers are required
> to provide names of these employees and the normal period of funding
> to Cindy Callaham, FA-107, to substantiate base hours for
> reimbursement as it occurs. Failure to do so will result in hours
> being charged back to the home office or program.
>
> c\. All employees will code overtime, premium pay and travel expenses
> to the appropriate reimbursable code identified on the resource order
> (i.e. FA-340-2830-NY-xxxx).

[Accountable Property]{.underline} -- All accountable/durable property
such as tents, sleeping bags, cots, chaps, Nomex, flight suits/ helmets,
lighting kits, ridge poles, chainsaws, radios, radio kits, generators,
pumps, etc. must be returned through the normal return process to the
servicing incident support cache.

**FEMA will not reimburse BLM for accountable property, therefore normal
program dollars will be charged for items not returned.**

[Charge Card Purchases]{.underline} -- FEMA will ***consider*** charge
card reimbursement [only]{.underline} if the necessary supporting
documentation is provided. All charges must be supported by an incident
order and request number (resource order number). The default code for
charge cards should not be changed to the reimbursable charge code. It
will be the responsibility of the field offices to ensure individuals
who have made charges on their government charge card, in support of a
hurricane incident, forward copies of their approved charge card
statements with copies of supporting receipts/documentation **to FA107
within 5 days of receipt**. Statements should reflect the appropriate
charge code, budget object class (BOC) and a description of charges.
**Charge card adjustments for all hazard incident charges will be made
at the National Office; other charges will be adjusted by the home
unit.**

[Documentation]{.underline} **--** FEMA requires all documentation to
support a reimbursable billing be included in the billing. In order to
provide the required documentation, it is the responsibility of each
unit to forward copies of all obligating documents (i.e. resource
orders, charge card statements, travel vouchers, OF-288, contractual
documents, GBL's, etc.) to FA107 in an expedient manner. **FEMA will not
reimburse BLM for charges that lack the proper supporting documentation.
Therefore, normal program dollars will fund all costs not supported by
proper documentation.**

**Time Frame:** This IM is effective immediately.

**Budget Impact:** The total budget impact is unknown, due to ongoing
discussions with FEMA regarding reimbursement of costs.

**Background**: In prior years, the BLM has been asked to provide
support to all hazard incidents. Should the need arise, in 2005, offices
should make individuals available to support this emergency effort.

**Directives Affected:** No manuals or handbooks are affected by this
IM.

**Coordination:** This IM is the result of coordination between the US
Forest Service, FEMA and other DOI agencies.

**Offices with a Union:** All offices with a union are required to make
notification of this action to the union.

**Contact:** Policy questions should be referred to Cindy Callaham,
Budget Analyst, at

208-387-5355 or Hallie Locklear, Incident Business Management
Specialist, at 208-387-5166.

Signed by: Authenticated by:

Timothy M. Murphy Pat Lewis

Acting Director Supervisory Mgmt. Asst.

# NATIONAL RESPONSE PLAN

## Scope of Emergency Support Functions (ESF)

**ESF #1 - Transportation**

-   Federal and civil transportation support

-   Transportation safety

-   Restoration/recovery of transportation infrastructure

-   Movement restrictions

-   Damage and impact assessment

**ESF #2 -- Communications**

-   Coordination with telecommunications industry

-   Restoration/repair of telecommunications infrastructure

-   Protection, restoration, and sustainment of national cyber and
    information technology resources

**ESF #3 - Public Works and Engineering**

-   Infrastructure protection and emergency repair

-   Infrastructure restoration

-   Engineering services, construction management

-   Critical infrastructure liaison

**ESF #4 - Firefighting**

-   Firefighting activities on Federal lands

-   Resource support to rural and urban firefighting operations

**ESF #5 - Emergency Management**

-   Coordination of incident management efforts

-   Issuance of mission assignments

-   Resource and human capital

-   Incident action planning

-   Financial management

**ESF #6 - Mass Care, Housing, and Human Services**

-   Mass care

-   Disaster housing

-   Human services

**ESF #7 - Resource Support**

-   Resource support (facility space, office equipment and supplies,
    contracting services, etc.)

**ESF #8 - Public Health and Medical Service**

-   Public health

-   Medical

-   Mental health services

-   Mortuary services

**ESF #9 - Urban Search and Rescue**

-   Life-saving assistance

-   Urban search and rescue

**ESF #10 - Oil and Hazardous Materials Response**

-   Oil and hazardous materials (chemical, biological, radiological,
    etc.) response

-   Environmental safety and short- and long-term cleanup

**ESF #11 - Agriculture and Natural Resources**

-   Nutrition assistance

-   Animal and plant disease/pest response

-   Food safety and security

-   Natural and cultural resources and historic properties protection
    and restoration

**ESF #12 - Energy**

-   Energy infrastructure assessment, repair, and restoration

-   Energy industry utilities coordination

-   Energy forecast

**ESF #13 - Public Safety and Security**

-   Facility and resource security

-   Security planning and technical and resource assistance

-   Public safety/security support

-   Support to access, traffic, and crowd control

**ESF #14 - Long-Term Community Recovery and Mitigation**

-   Social and economic community impact assessment

-   Long-term community recovery assistance to States, local
    governments, and the private sector

-   Mitigation analysis and program implementation

**ESF #15 - External Affairs**

-   Emergency public information and protective action guidance

-   Media and community relations

-   Congressional and international affairs

-   Tribal and insular affairs

## Emergency Support Function #4 -- Firefighting Annex

**ESF Coordinator:**

Department of Agriculture/Forest Service

**Primary Agency:**

Department of Agriculture/Forest Service

**Support Agencies:**

Department of Commerce

Department of Defense

Department of Homeland Security

Department of the Interior

Environmental Protection Agency

**Introduction**

**Purpose**

Emergency Support Function (ESF) #4 --Firefighting enables the detection
and suppression of wildland, rural, and urban fires resulting from, or
occurring coincidentally with, an Incident of National Significance.

**Scope**

ESF #4 manages and coordinates firefighting activities, including the
detection and suppression of fires on Federal lands, and provides
personnel, equipment, and supplies in support of State, local, and
tribal agencies involved in rural and urban firefighting operations.

**Policies**

-   Priority is given to public and firefighter safety and protecting
    property, in that order.

-   Processes and procedures established by the National Wildland
    Coordinating Group (NWCG) in the National Interagency Mobilization
    Guide are followed in responding to Incidents of National
    Significance under the National Response Plan (NRP).

-   National support is accomplished through the National Interagency
    Coordination Center (NICC) located at the National Interagency Fire
    Center (NIFC) in Boise, ID.

-   Coordination with, and support of, State and local fire suppression
    organizations is accomplished through the State Forester, in
    cooperation with the State Fire Marshal, State emergency management
    agency, or other appropriate State agency and/or tribal fire
    suppression organizations operating under the National Incident
    Management System (NIMS)/Incident Command System (ICS).

-   The coordinator for ESF #4 -- Firefighting is the Department of
    Agriculture (USDA)/Forest Service, at the headquarters level. For
    operations that occur in the State of Alaska, operational lead for
    firefighting response is the Department of the Interior/Bureau of
    Land Management (DOI/BLM).

**Concept of Operations**

**General**

ESF #4 manages and coordinates Federal firefighting activities. This
function is accomplished by mobilizing firefighting resources in support
of State, local, and tribal wildland, rural, and urban firefighting
agencies.

ESF #4 uses established firefighting and support organizations,
processes, and procedures outlined in the National Mobilization Guide.
Responsibility for situation assessment and determination of resource
needs lies primarily with the local incident commander.

Requests for firefighting assistance and resources are transmitted from
the Joint Field Office (JFO) ESF #4 representative to the appropriate
Geographic Area Coordination Center (GACC). For resources beyond those
available within the geographic area, the requests are sent to the NICC
in Boise, ID, by the Geographical Area Coordinator. The NICC contacts
the ESF #4 coordinator in the event of national-level shortages or
unavailability of needed resources.

Resolution of shortages is pursued by the National Response Coordination
Center (NRCC) and, when necessary, by the Interagency Incident
Management Group (IIMG). Actual firefighting operations are managed
under the ICS. Situation and damage assessment information is
transmitted through established fire suppression channels and directly
between the headquarters-level and regional-level functions according to
NIMS procedures.

**Organization:** ESF #4 has a parallel structure at the national and
regional levels.

**Headquarters-Level Response Support Structure**

The USDA Homeland Security Office represents the USDA/Forest Service on
the IIMG.

The ESF #4 coordinator operates under the direction of the Assistant
Director for Planning, Fire, and Aviation Management, Forest Service.
Assistance is provided as necessary by the Forest Service and DOI Fire
Directors at the NIFC.

The Forest Service Disaster and Emergency Operation Branch Chief serves
as the ESF #4 coordinator. The ESF #4 coordinator or representative
reports to and is a member of the NRCC, when activated. This position is
the link to the National Director for Fire and Aviation Management at
Forest Service Headquarters.

The ESF #4 coordinator, through the NRCC, provides subject-matter
expertise to the IIMG and, based on recommended Department of Homeland
Security requirements, may be operational on a 24-hour basis. Supporting
agencies' representatives are available by telephone or pager on a
24-hour basis, when necessary.

National logistics support and mobilization of resources are provided by
the NICC.

**Regional-Level Response Structure**

Federal firefighting response support is coordinated by the
regional/area ESF #4 coordinator provided by the Forest Service
regional/area office. The regional ESF #4 coordinator is responsible for
establishing and maintaining coordination with the national ESF #4
coordinator, regional support agencies, and the JFO. Regional
firefighting response and logistics support is provided by GACCs and the
NICC in accordance with established Mobilization Guides. Supporting
agencies have representatives available by telephone or pager on a
24-hour basis for the duration, as necessary.

**Notification**

Upon notification of a potential or actual event requiring ESF #4
response, the National ESF #4 coordinator notifies the Regional/Area
Fire Coordinators, the NICC, and the DOI Departmental Emergency
Coordinator.

**Actions**

**Pre-Incident**

Prevention: Policies, procedures, and guidelines for wildland fires are
established in the National Interagency Fire Prevention Plan.

Preparedness: National preparedness planning levels for wildland fire
suppression are established by the NWCG in the National Interagency
Mobilization Guide.

**Incident**

Initial Response Actions: The national ESF #4 coordinator or
representative:

Reports to the NRCC within 2 hours of notification;

Establishes communication links with support agencies, the USDA
Emergency Operations Center, the National Director for Fire and Aviation
Management at Forest Service Headquarters, and Forest Service Assistant
Director--Operations at the NIFC;

Establishes communication links with the Regional/Area Fire
Coordinators; and

Obtains an initial fire situation and damage assessment through
established intelligence procedures.

**Post-Incident**

Continuing Response Actions: The national ESF #4 coordinator or
representative:

Obtains, maintains, and provides incident situation and damage
assessment information through established procedures;

Coordinates incident resource needs, and determines and resolves, as
necessary, issues regarding resource shortages and resource ordering
issues, interagency conflicts, and policy matters referred by the IIMG;

Maintains close coordination through the NRCC with the IIMG, Regional
Response Coordination Center, support agencies, NICC, JFO, and Incident
Command Post; and

Maintains a complete log of actions taken, resource orders, records, and
reports.

**Recovery:** Resource rehabilitation and demobilization policies and
procedures are established in the National Interagency Mobilization
Guide and Interagency Incident Business Management Handbook.

**Responsibilities**

**ESF Coordinator/Primary Agency:**

**USDA/Forest Service**

Provides qualified representatives to serve as national ESF #4
coordinator, regional/area ESF coordinator, and ESF coordinator at the
JFO.

Requests assistance from supporting agencies as necessary to accomplish
ESF #4 responsibilities.

Provides logistics support through the GACC and/or NICC for mobilizing
resources for firefighting.

Assumes full responsibility for suppression of wildfires burning on
national forest system lands and joins in a unified command with the
local jurisdiction on incidents threatening national forest system
lands.

Provides and coordinates firefighting assistance to other Federal land
management, State forestry, and local fire organizations as requested
under the terms of existing agreements and the NRP.

Arranges for direct liaison with fire chiefs in the designated area to
coordinate requests for firefighting assistance in structural or
industrial fire protection operations.

Provides information to the Planning Section at the incident and to the
JFO as assessments of fire-caused damages are obtained.

**Support Agencies**

**Agency Functions**

**Department of Commerce** Provides fire/weather forecasting as needed
from the NIFC in Boise, ID, or from a nearby National Weather Service
Forecast Office under the terms of existing interagency agreements.

> Provides urban and industrial hazard analysis support through the
> Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute of
> Standards and Technology.
>
> Provides fire/weather support under the terms of the National
> Agreement for Meteorological Services in Support of Agencies with Land
> Management and Fire Protection Responsibilities.
>
> Provides forecasts of the dispersion of smoke in support of planning
> and response activities.

**Department of Defense** Assumes full responsibility for firefighting
activities on DOD installations.

> Supports firefighting operations on nonmilitary lands with personnel,
> equipment, and supplies under the terms of the existing interagency
> agreement, including the arrangement of liaisons as required.
>
> U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Provides contracting services through
> ESF #3 to urban and rural firefighting forces to obtain heavy
> equipment and/or demolition services as needed to suppress
> incident-related fires.

**Department of Homeland**

**Security Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate/Federal**

**Emergency Management Agency/U.S. Fire Administration**

Provides subject-matter experts/expertise regarding structural/urban/
suburban fire and fire-related activities.

> Maintains a representative at the NIFC to assist with national
> coordination.
>
> **U.S. Coast Guard**
>
> Provides support for marine firefighting incidents.

**Department of the Interior** Assumes full responsibility for fighting
wildfires burning on lands within its jurisdiction.

> Assists the Forest Service in managing and coordinating firefighting
> operations.
>
> Provides firefighting assistance to other Federal land management
> organizations as requested under the terms of existing agreements and
> the NRP.

**Environmental Protection**

**Agency** Provides technical assistance and advice in the event of
fires involving hazardous materials.

> Provides assistance in identifying an uncontaminated water source for
> firefighting.

**Other Organizations** State forestry organizations in most States are
responsible for

> wildland firefighting on non-Federal lands. States may assist other
> States in firefighting operations and may assist Federal agencies
> through agreements. In addition, resources may be provided through
> Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Private-sector resources are
> mobilized through standard contract procedures.