Edition 2.0
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Edition 2.0

This Emergency Response to Terrorism Job Aid

has been designed, produced and distributed

through a joint partnership of:

The Federal Emergency Management Agency

United States Fire Administration

National Fire Programs Division

The Office of Justice Programs

Office for Domestic Preparedness (ODP)

And

United States Department of Justice

Office of Justice Programs

February 2003
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Edition 2.0

 I. Introduction

• Document Layout

• Instructions for Use of Job Aid

• Development/Use Assumptions
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-1

Section I. Introduction

Document Layout

This document is divided into five primary

sections:

I. INTRODUCTION

 Instructions for Use of Job Aid

 Development/Use Assumptions

II. OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

 Assess Security—Response and Initial

Approach

 Indicators

 If There Is One Indicator

 If There Are Multiple

Indicators

 Command Considerations

 On-Scene Size-Up

 Incident Site Management, Safety and

Security

 Tactical Considerations

 Mass Decontamination

 Symptomatic Patients

 Asymptotic Patients (Contaminated

or Exposed)

 Remote Site Operations (i.e.,

Hospital Emergency Rooms)
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-2

 Evidence Preservation

Section I. Introduction (cont.)

III. INCIDENT-SPECIFIC ACTIONS (CBRNE)

 Chemical

 General Information

 Chemical Agent Reference Chart

 Nerve Agents

 Blister Agents/Vesicants

 Blood Agents

 Choking Agents

 Riot Control/Irritant Agents

 Response Recommendations

 Biological

 General Information

 Response Recommendations

 Wet/Dry Agent from Point Source

 Threat of Dry Agent Placed into

HVAC System or Package with No

Visible Evidence

 Confirmed Agent Placed into

HVAC System (Visible Fogger,

Sprayer or Aerosolizing Device)

 Biological Agent Reference Chart

 Radiological/Nuclear

 General Information

 Response Recommendations

 Explosives

 General Information
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-3

 Response Recommendations

 Unexploded Device/Pre-Blast

Operations

Section I. Introduction (cont.)

 Exploded Device/Post-Blast

Operations

IV. AGENCY-RELATED ACTIONS

 Fire Department

 As the Incident Progresses,

Prepare to Initiate Unified

Command System

 Emergency Medical Services

 If First on Scene

 If Command Has Been Established

 Patient Care Mainstay Worksheet

 Law Enforcement

 If First on Scene

 If Command Has Been Established

 HazMat

 Assisting Agencies

V. GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-4

Section I. Introduction (cont.)

Instructions on the Use of This Job Aid

The Introduction provides basic directions, an

overview of the document and explanation of how

to use it. It also includes a list of basic assumptions

upon which the Job Aid was developed and

according to which it is intended to be used.

Operational Considerations highlights specific

strategic and tactical issues that should be

assessed. In many instances, questions help direct

responders to implement appropriate options or

actions.

Incident-Specific Actions (CBRNE) provides an

overview of considerations and issues that should

be assessed with respect to different types of

potential terrorist incidents.

Agency-Related Actions provides an overview of

considerations and issues that should be assessed

by the four primary disciplines that would be

immediately involved in a potential terrorist incident.

The Glossary of Terms defines specific terms and

concepts used within the checklist. Throughout the

document, terms defined in the glossary appear

with the symbol . The glossary also gives the full

form of abbreviations used in the document.


Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-5

Section I. Introduction (cont.)

Development/Use Assumptions

 The Job Aid is designed to assist the first

responder from the fire, EMS, HazMat, and law

enforcement disciplines. This includes both

tactical and strategic issues that range from line

personnel to unit officers and up to and

including the initial incident commander (i.e.,

battalion chief, etc.).

 The document is not a training manual. It is

expected that personnel already have

appropriate training and experience to address

the identified tactics. It should serve as a

reminder for those who already have completed

the appropriate level of tactical or strategic

training, such as the Emergency Response to

Terrorism courses developed for classroom and

self-study.

 The document is designed to assist emergency

response personnel in identifying a possible

terrorist/WMD incident and implementing initial

actions.

 The document identifies both strategic and

tactical considerations that should be assessed

within the first hour of an incident. Appropriate

tactics would then be implemented as required.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-6

Section I. Introduction (cont.)

 Every incident is different. It is not possible to

develop a document outlining a single

chronology or sequence of actions. The order

of operations depicted in this document may

have to be altered to meet the situation. In

some cases, various issues may have to be

addressed simultaneously.

 Terrorist/WMD incidents are complex by nature

and rarely handled by a single first responding

unit or agency. The Job Aid is intended to be

used by several different agencies and the first

responders at an incident who will ultimately

report their findings to the Incident

Commander. To accomplish that goal the

responsibility for different sections can be

appropriately assigned to different personnel

from different agencies if available.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-7
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Introduction I-8

 II. OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Assess Security - Response and Initial

Approach

• Indicators

o If There Is One Indicator

o If There Are Multiple Indicators

• Command Considerations

• On-Scene Size up

• Incident Site Management, Safety and

Security

• Mass Decontamination

o Symptomatic Patients

o Asymptotic Patients (Contaminated

or Exposed)

o Remote Site Operations (i.e.,

Hospital Emergency Rooms)

• Evidence Preservation
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assess Security—Response and Initial Approach II-1-1

Section II-1: Assess

Security—Response and

Initial Approach

Indicators

 Is the response to a target hazard or target

event?

 Has there been a threat?

 Are there multiple (non–trauma related)

victims?

 Are responders victims?

 Are hazardous substances involved?

 Has there been an explosion?

 Has there been a secondary

attack/explosion?
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assess Security—Response and Initial Approach II-1-2

Section II-1: Assess

Security—Response and

Initial Approach (cont.)

If There Is One Indicator:

 Respond with a heightened level of awareness.

If There Are Multiple Indicators:

 You may be on the scene of a terrorist incident.

 Initiate response operations with extreme

caution.

 Be alert for actions against responders.

 Evaluate and implement personal protective

measures.

 Consider the need for maximum respiratory

protection.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assess Security—Response and Initial Approach II-1-3

Section II-1: Assess

Security—Response and

Initial Approach (cont.)

 Make immediate contact with law enforcement

for coordination.

 Response route considerations:

Approach cautiously, from uphill/upwind if

possible.

Consider law enforcement escort.

Avoid choke points (i.e., congested areas).

Designate rally points (i.e., regrouping

areas—different from staging area—for

responders).

 Identify safe staging location(s) for incoming

units.




Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Command Considerations II-2-1

Section II-2: Command

Considerations

 Establish command.

 Isolate area/deny entry.

 Ensure scene security.

 Initiate on-scene size-up and hazard/risk

assessment.

 Provide, identify, and designate safe staging

location(s) for incoming units.

 Ensure the use of personal protective

measures and shielding.

 Assess emergency egress routes:

Position apparatus to facilitate rapid

evacuation.

If you must use emergency egress,

reassemble at designated rally point(s).

 Ensure personnel accountability.

 Designate incident safety officer.

 Assess command post security.


Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Command Considerations II-2-2

Section II-2: Command Considerations

(cont.)

 Consider assignment of liaison and public

information positions.

 Assess decontamination requirements (gross,

mass, etc.).

 Consider the need for additional/specialized

resources.

Fire.

EMS.

HazMat.

Law enforcement/explosive ordnance

disposal (bomb squad).

Emergency management.

Public health.

Public works.

Environmental.

Others.

 Consider as a potential crime scene:

Consider everything at the site as potential

evidence.

Ensure coordination with law enforcement.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Command Considerations II-2-3

Section II-2: Command Considerations

(cont.)

 Make appropriate notifications:

Dispatch center (update situation report).

Hospitals.

Utilities.

Law enforcement.

State point of contact as appropriate.

 Prepare for transition to Unified Command.

 Ensure coordination of communications and

identify needs.

 Consider the need for advance/response of a

regional, state, or national Incident

Management Team.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

On-Scene Size-Up II-3-1

Section II-3: On-Scene Size-Up

 Review dispatch information.

 Look for physical indicators and other outward

warning signs (of biological, nuclear, incendiary,

chemical and explosive events, including armed

assault):

Debris field.

Mass casualty/fatality with minimal or no

trauma.

Responder casualties.

Severe structural damage without an

obvious cause.

Dead animals and vegetation.

System(s) disruptions (utilities,

transportation, etc.).

Unusual odors, color of smoke, vapor

clouds.

 Victims’ signs and symptoms of hazardous

substance exposure:

Are there unconscious victims with minimal

or no trauma?

Are there victims exhibiting SLUDGEM

signs/seizures? 

Is there blistering, reddening of skin,

discoloration or skin irritation?

Are victims having difficulty breathing?
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

On-Scene Size-Up II-3-2

Section II-3: On-Scene Size-Up (cont.)

Identify apparent sign/symptom commonality.

Interview victims and witnesses (if possible):

 Is everyone accounted for?

 What happened (information on delivery

system)?

 When did it happen?

 Where did it happen?

 Who was involved?

 Did they smell, see, taste, hear, or feel

anything (out of the ordinary)?

Identify type of event(s):

 Chemical.

 Biological.

 Radiological.

 Nuclear.

 Explosive.

 Armed assault.

Weather report considerations:

 Downwind exposures.

 Monitor forecast.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

On-Scene Size-Up II-3-3

Section II-3: On-Scene Size-Up (cont.)

 Determine life safety threats:

Self.

Responders.

Victims.

Public.

 Determine mechanism(s) of injury (TRACEM-P):

Thermal.

Radiological.

Asphyxiant.

Chemical.

Etiological.

Mechanical.

Psychological.

 Estimate number of victims:

Ambulatory.

Nonambulatory.


Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

On-Scene Size-Up II-3-4

Section II-3: On-Scene Size-Up (cont.)

Identify damaged/affected surroundings:

 Structural exposures.

 Downwind exposures.

 Environmental exposures.

 Below-grade occupancies.

 Below-grade utilities.

 Aviation/air space hazards.

Consider potential for secondary attack:

 Chemical dispersal devices.

 Secondary explosive devices.

 Booby traps.

Determine available and needed resources:

 Fire.

 EMS.

 HazMat.

 Law enforcement/explosive ordnance

disposal (bomb squad).

 Emergency management.

 Public health.

 Public works.

 Environmental.

 Others.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Incident Site Management, Safety, and Security II-4-1

Section II-4: Incident Site Management,

Safety, and Security

 Reassess initial isolation/standoff distances:

Establish an outer perimeter. 

Establish an inner perimeter. 

 Initiate public protection actions:

Remove endangered victims from highhazard areas.

Establish safe refuge area (contaminated

vs. uncontaminated). 

Evacuate.

Protect in place.

 Identify appropriate PPE options prior to

committing personnel.

 Dedicate emergency medical services needed

for responders.

 Prepare for gross decontamination operations

for responders. 

 Coordinate with law enforcement to provide

security and control of perimeters.

 Ensure Force Protection.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Incident Site Management, Safety, and Security II-4-2

Section II-4: Incident Site Management,

 Safety, and Security (cont.)

 Designate an emergency evacuation signal.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Tactical Considerations II-5-1

Section II-5: Tactical Considerations

 Life safety:

Isolate/secure and deny entry.

Public protection (evacuate/protect in

place).

Implementation of self-protection measures.

Commit only essential personnel/minimize

exposure.

Confine/contain all contaminated and

exposed victims.

Establish gross decontamination

capabilities.

 Rescue considerations:

Is the scene safe for operations?

Can I make it safe to operate?

Are victims viable?

Are they ambulatory?

Can they self-evacuate?

Are they contaminated?

Do they require extrication (bombing

events)?

Is a search safe and possible?

Is specialized PPE required?
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Tactical Considerations II-5-2

Section II-5: Tactical Considerations

(cont.)

Incident stabilization (consider defensive

operations):

 Water supply.

 Exposure protection.

 Utility control.

 Fire suppression.

 HazMat control.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-1

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination

Position the decontamination area upwind and

uphill.

Use a hand held public address system to

provide victims guidance and directions. First

responders wearing full structural gear and

SCBA may approach the victims if other

methods are not suitable to provide direction

and guidance.

Avoid contact with any liquids on the ground,

victims’ clothing, or other surfaces.

Remove contaminated/exposed victims from

the high-hazard area. Isolate/secure them in a

holding area at the outer periphery of the hot

zone (safe refuge area).

Evaluate signs/symptoms to determine the type

of agent involved.

NOTE

Signs or symptoms of exposure (depending on

the agent) may include difficulty breathing;

reddening, burning, and/or itching of the eyes

and/or skin; irritation of the nose and throat; runny

nose or salivation; coughing; pinpoint pupils; pain
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-2

in the eyes or head; seizure-like activity or

convulsions; vomiting; etc.

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination (cont.)

 Separate the victims into groups of:

Symptomatic and asymptomatic.

Ambulatory and nonambulatory.

 Properly Protected Medical Personnel may

access the patients in the holding area to

initiate triage, administer antidotes, and provide

basic care in accordance with local protocols.

 The type of decontamination system is

dependent on the number of patients, the

severity of their injuries, and the resources

available.

 Several patients may be handled with a single

hose line, while numerous patients will require

the use of a mass decontamination corridor.

 Large numbers of patients may require engine

companies to use the "side-by-side" system as

well as numerous showers to move multiple

lines of patients through the process.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-3

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination

(cont.)

Symptomatic Patients

 Begin emergency gross decontamination 

immediately on victims who:

Are symptomatic.

Have visible (liquid) product on their

clothing.

Were in close proximity to the discharge.

 In a mass casualty setting life safety takes

precedence over containing runoff.

 Set up decontamination in an area such that

the decontamination water will flow away from

your operation and into the grass or soil, if

possible.

 Provide privacy only if it will not delay the

decontamination process.

 Remove all of the victims’ clothing down to their

underwear.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-4

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination

(cont.)

Thoroughly wash/rinse the victims:

 For limited number of patients: use soap,

soft brushes, and water from small hose

lines at low pressure (30 psi fog).

 For multiple patients: engines parked sideto-side dispersing water at 100 psi with

wide fog nozzles or multiple showers may

be used.

NOTE

Patients should remain in the water for several

minutes and receive a thorough flushing under

their arms, behind the knees and between legs

(arms up, spin around). Personnel should be

positioned at the exit side of the corridor to

manage the patients and ensure they stay in the

water for an adequate period of time.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-5

Separate lines may be required to process

nonambulatory patients.

As resources become available, separate

decontamination lines may be established for

male and female patients, as well as families.

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination

(cont.)

Provide emergency covering (i.e., emergency

blankets and sheets for the victims)

Transfer patients to EMS for triage/treatment

Asymptomatic Patients (Contaminated or

Exposed)

Process patients through the gross

decontamination  showers with their clothes

on.

Have them proceed to separate holding areas

by gender.

Separate systems should be established for

male and female patients.

Set up tents/shelters and provide showers or

an improvised wash system.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-6

 Patients should be numbered and bags should

be used to store their personal effects.

Section II-6: Mass Decontamination

(cont.)

 Provide emergency covering/clothing.

 Transfer patients to a holding area for medical

evaluation.

Remote Site Operations (i.e., Hospital

Emergency Room)

 Stand-alone decontamination systems may

have to be established outside of hospital

emergency rooms for patients who self-present

at the location:

Units with decontamination capabilities

should be dispatched to establish a

system.

Triage the patients and separate them into

symptomatic and asymptomatic groups.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Mass Decontamination II-6-7

Patients who are symptomatic or have

visible product on their clothes will be a

priority.

Remove clothes and flush thoroughly.

Liaison with the hospital staff to determine

where patients will be sent after

decontamination.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Evidence Preservation II-7-1

Section III-7: Evidence Preservation

Recognize potential evidence.

 Unexploded device(s).

 Portions of device(s).

 Clothing of victims.

 Containers.

 Dissemination device(s).

 The Victim(s).

Note location of potential evidence.

Report findings to appropriate authority.

Move potential evidence only for life

safety/incident stabilization.

Establish and maintain chain of custody for

evidence preservation.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

 III. INCIDENT SPECIFIC ACTIONS (CBRNE)

• Chemical

o General Information

o Chemical Agent Reference Chart

o Nerve Agents

o Blister Agents/Vesicants

o Blood Agents

o Choking Agents

o Riot Control/Irritant Agents

o Response Recommendations

• Biological

• Radiological/Nuclear

• Explosive
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-1

Section III-1: Chemical

General Information

 Victims’ signs and symptoms of hazardous

substance exposure:

Are there unconscious victims with minimal

or no trauma?

Are there victims exhibiting SLUDGEM 

signs /seizures?

Is there blistering, reddening of skin,

discoloration or skin irritation?

Are the victims having difficulty breathing?

 Look for physical indicators and other outward

warning signs:

Medical mass casualty/fatality with minimal

or no trauma.

Responder casualties.

Dead animals and vegetation.

Unusual odors, color of smoke, vapor

clouds.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-2

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Dispersal method(s):

 Air handling system.

 Misting or aerosolizing device.

 Sprayer.

 Gas cylinder.

 Dirty bomb.

DOT-ERGs provide additional information:

 Nerve agents (Guide #153)

 Blister agents (Guide #153)

 Blood agents (Guides #117,119,125)

 Choking agents (Guides #124,125)

 Irritant agents (riot control) (Guides

#153,159)
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-3

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Chemical Agent Reference Charts

Nerve Agents

Common Name

(Military Symbol)

Tabun

(GA)

Sarin

(GB)

Soman

(GD) VX

Volatility/

Persistency Semi-persistent Persistent

Rate of Action Rapid Rapid

Route of Entry Respiratory and skin

Odor Fruity Camphor Sulfur

Signs/Symptoms

Headache, runny nose, salivation, pinpointing

of pupils, difficulty in breathing, tight chest,

seizures/convulsions

Self-Protection Respiratory and skin

First Aid Remove from area, treat symptomatically

Atropine and 2–Pam chloride

Decontamination Remove agent

Flush with warm water/soap

Non-persistent = minutes–hours

Semi-persistent = < 12 hours

Persistent = > 12 hours
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-4

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Chemical Agent Reference Charts

Blister Agents/Vesicants

Common Name

(Military Symbol)

Mustard

(H) Lewisite (L) PhosgeneOxime (CX)

Volatility/

Persistency Persistent

Rate of Action Delayed Rapid

Route of Entry Skin, inhalation, eyes

Odor Garlic Geraniums Irritating

Signs/Symptoms

Red, burning skin, blisters, sore throat, dry

cough. Pulmonary edema, memory loss,

coma/seizures. Some symptoms may be

delayed from 2 to 24 hrs.

Self-Protection Respiratory and skin

First Aid

Decontaminate with copious amount of

water, remove clothing, support airway, treat

symptomatically

Decontamination Remove from area

Flush with warm water/soap

Non-persistent = minutes–hours

Semi-persistent = < 12 hours

Persistent = > 12 hours
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-5

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Chemical Agent Reference Charts

Blood Agents

Common Name

(Military Symbol)

Hydrogen

Cyanide

(AC)

Cyanogen

Chloride

( CK)

Arsine

(SA)

Volatility/

Persistency Non-persistent

Rate of Action Rapid

Route of Entry Inhalation, skin, and eyes 

Odor Burnt almonds or peach pits Garlic

Signs/Symptoms

Cherry red skin/lips, rapid breathing,

dizziness, nausea, vomiting, convulsions,

dilated pupils, excessive salivation,

gastrointestinal hemorrhage, pulmonary

edema, convulsions, respiratory arrest

Self-Protection Respiratory and skin

First Aid Remove from area, assist ventilations, treat

symptomatically, administer cyanide kit

Decontamination Remove from area, remove wet clothing, flush

with soap and water, aerate

Non-persistent = minutes–hours

Semi-persistent = < 12 hours

Persistent = > 12 hours
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-6

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Chemical Agent Reference Charts

Choking Agents

Common Name

(Military Symbol)

Chlorine

(CL)

Phosgene

(CG)

Diphosgene

(DP)

Volatility/

Persistency

Non-persistent

Vapors may hang in low areas

Rate of Action Rapid in high concentration, up to 3 hours in

low concentrations

Route of Entry Respiratory and skin

Odor Bleach Newly

mown hay

Cut grass or

green corn

Signs/Symptoms

Eye and airway irritation, dizziness,

tightness in chest, pulmonary edema,

painful cough, nausea, headache

Self-Protection Respiratory and skin

First Aid Remove from area, remove contaminated

clothing, assist ventilations, rest

Decontamination Wash with copious amounts of water,

aerate

Non-persistent = minutes–hours

Semi-persistent = < 12 hours

Persistent = > 12 hours
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-7

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Chemical Agent Reference Charts

Riot Control/Irritant Agents

Common Name

(Military Symbol)

Tear Gas

(CS & CR)

Mace

(CN)

Pepper

Spray

(OC)

Volatility/

Persistency

Low–High

> 60 days on

porous

material

Low

Varies

depending

upon surface

Rate of Action 20–60 sec. Rapid

Route of Entry Respiration and skin

Odor Hair spray Apple

blossoms

Pepper or

odor of

propellant

Signs/Symptoms Tearing eyes, nose and throat irritation,

coughing, shortness of breath, vomiting

Self-Protection Respiration and skin

First Aid

Remove from area, support respirations, treat

symptomatically, remove contaminated

clothing

Decontamination Brush off material, use decon wipes, water,

remove contaminated clothing

Non-persistent = minutes–hours

Semi-persistent = < 12 hours

Persistent = > 12 hours
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-8

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Response Recommendations

Approach from uphill and upwind.

Victims exposed to chemical agents require

immediate removal of clothing, gross 

decontamination and definitive medical care.

Upon arrival, stage at a safe distance away

from the site.

Secure and isolate the area/deny entry.

Complete a hazard and risk assessment to

determine if it is acceptable to commit

responders to the site.

Be aware of larger secondary chemical devices.

Personnel in structural PPE/SCBA should not

enter areas of high concentration, unventilated

areas, or below-grade areas for any reason.

Personnel in structural PPE/SCBA may enter

the hot zone near the perimeter (outside of

areas of high concentration) to perform lifesaving functions.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-9

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Move ambulatory patients away from the area

of highest concentration or source.

Confine all contaminated and exposed victims

to a restricted/isolated area at the outer edge

of the hot zone.

Symptomatic  patients should be segregated

into one area and asymptomatic patients

should be placed in another area.

Law enforcement should establish an outer

perimeter  to completely secure the scene.

If a particular agent is known or suspected, this

information should be forwarded to EMS

personnel and hospitals so sufficient quantities

of antidotes can be obtained.

Hospitals should be notified immediately that

contaminated victims of the attack may arrive or

self-present at the hospital.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Chemical III-1-10

Section III-1: Chemical (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Begin emergency gross decontamination 

procedures starting with the most severe

symptomatic  patients. Use soap-and-water

decon.

Decontamination capabilities should be

provided at the hospital to assist with

emergency gross decontamination  prior to

victims’ entering the facility.

If available, HazMat personnel in chemical PPE

may be used for rescue, reconnaissance, and

agent identification.

Asymptomatic  patients should be

decontaminated in a private area (tent or

shelter) and then forwarded to a holding area

for medical evaluation.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

 III. INCIDENT SPECIFIC ACTIONS (CBRNE)

• Chemical

• Biological

o General Information

o Response Recommendations

o Wet/Dry Agent from Point of

Source

o Threat of Dry Agent Placed into

HVAC System (Visible Fogger,

Sprayer or Aerosolizing Device)

o Biological Agent Reference Chart

• Radiological/Nuclear

• Explosive
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-1

Section III-2: Biological

General Information

Biological agents may produce delayed

reactions.

Unlike exposure to chemical agents, exposure

to biological agents does not require immediate

removal of victims’ clothing or gross

decontamination in the street.

Inhalation is the primary route of entry.

SCBA and structural firefighting clothing

provides adequate protection for first

responders.

DOT-ERG #158 provides additional information.

Response Recommendations

Position uphill and upwind and away from

building exhaust systems.

Isolate/secure the area. (DOT-ERG #158

recommends initial isolation distance of 80

feet.)
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-2

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

Do not allow unprotected individuals to enter

area.

Be alert for small explosive devices designed to

disseminate the agent.

Gather information:

 Type and form of agent (liquid, powder,

aerosol).

 Method of delivery.

 Location in structure.

Operational procedures are provided on the

following pages for the following scenarios:

Wet/dry agent from a point source.

Threat of agent placed in HVAC system or

package (with no physical evidence).

Confirmed agent placed into HVAC system

(visible fogger, sprayer or aerosolizing device).
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-3

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

Wet/Dry Agent from Point Source

Personnel entering area must wear full PPE,

including SCBA.

Avoid contact with puddles, wet surfaces,

powdery substances, etc.

Isolate area.

Keep all potentially exposed individuals in close

proximity, but out of the high-hazard area.

Shut down HVAC system that services the

area.

If victims have visible agent on them:

 Wash exposed skin with soap and water.

 If highly contaminated (i.e., splashed) and

the facility is equipped with showers, the

victims may take a shower and change

clothes as a precaution.

 HazMat team may be able to conduct a

bioassay field test (limited number of

agents).
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-4

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

If possible, a sample of the material may be

collected for testing:

 If test results are positive, decontaminate in

shower facility with warm water/soap.

 Provide emergency covering/clothing and

bag personal effects.

 Refer to medical community for treatment.

Threat of Dry Agent Placed into HVAC System or

Package with No Physical Evidence

Isolate the building:

 Keep all potentially exposed victims in the

building.

 Shut down all HVAC systems for the

building.

Collect information regarding the threat, target

or any previous activity to gauge the credibility

of the threat.

Initiate a search of the building.

Personnel entering area must wear full PPE,

including SCBA.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-5

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

 Avoid contact with puddles, wet surfaces, etc.

 Investigate all HVAC intakes, returns, etc., for

evidence of agent or dispersal equipment.

 If any evidence of an agent is found in/near

the HVAC system, remove occupants from the

building and isolate them in a secure and

comfortable location.

 If a suspicious package is found, handle as a

point source event.

 Contaminated victims should shower and

change. No decontamination should take place

unprotected and in the open. Tents or other

sites should be used.

 Exposed victims may shower and change at

their discretion.

 Refer to medical community for treatment.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-6

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

Confirmed Agent Placed into HVAC System

(Visible Fogger, Sprayer or Aerosolizing Device)

 Personnel entering must wear full PPE and

SCBA.

 Avoid contact with puddles, wet surfaces, etc.

 Remove occupants from building/area, and

isolate in a secure and comfortable location.

 Shut down HVAC system(s).

 HazMat team may be able to conduct a

bioassay field test (limited number of agents).

 If possible, a sample of the material may be

collected for testing.

 If test results are positive, contaminated victims

should shower and change. No

decontamination should take place

unprotected and in the open. Tents or other

sites should be used.

 Gather all decontaminated victims in a specific

holding area for medical evaluation.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Biological III-2-7

Section III-2: Biological (cont.)

Biological Agent Reference Chart

Agent Dissemination

Transmission

(person to

person)

Incubation Lethality

Anthrax Spores in

aerosol

No (except

cutaneous) 1–5 days High

Cholera Ingestion and

aerosol Rare 12 hours to 6days

Low with

treatment

Plague Aerosol High 1–3 days High if

untreated

Tularemia Aerosol No 1–10 days Moderate if

untreated

Q Fever Ingestion and

aerosol Rare 14–16 days Very low

Smallpox Aerosol High 10–12 days Low

VEE

Aerosol and

infected

vectors

Low 1–6 days Low

Ebola Contact and

aerosol Moderate 4–16 days Moderate to

high

Botulinum

Toxin

Ingestion and

aerosol No Hours todays High

T-2

Mycotoxins

Ingestion and

aerosol No 2–4 hours Moderate

Ricin Ingestion and

aerosol No Hours to

days High

Staphylococ

al

Enterotoxin B

Ingestion and

Aerosol No Hours < 1%
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

 III. INCIDENT SPECIFIC ACTIONS (CBRNE)

• Chemical

• Biological

• Radiological/Nuclear

o General Information

o Response Recommendations

• Explosive 
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Radiological/Nuclear III-3-1

Section III-3: Radiological/Nuclear

General Information

 Radiological agents may produce delayed

reactions.

 Unlike exposure to chemical agents, exposure

to radiological agents does not require

immediate removal of victims’ clothing or gross

decontamination in the street.

 Inhalation is the primary route of entry for

particulate radiation.

 In most cases, SCBA and structural firefighting

clothing provides adequate protection for first

responders.

 Alternately, gamma sources require minimizing

exposure time and maintaining appropriate

distance as the only protection.

 Exposed/contaminated victims may not exhibit

obvious injuries.

 DOT-ERGs #163 & 164 provide additional

information.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Radiological/Nuclear III-3-2

Section III-3: Radiological/Nuclear (cont.)

Response Recommendations

Position upwind of any suspected event.

Isolate/secure the area. DOT-ERG #163

recommends a minimum distance of 80 to 160

feet.

Be alert for small explosive devices designed to

disseminate radioactive agent(s).

Use time, distance, and shielding as protective

measures.

Use full PPE including SCBA.

Avoid contact with agent. Stay out of any

visible smoke or fumes.

Establish background levels outside of

suspected area.

Monitor radiation levels.

Remove victims from high-hazard area to a safe

holding area.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Radiological/Nuclear III-3-3

Section III-3: Radiological/Nuclear (cont.)

 Triage, treat, and decontaminate trauma victims

as appropriate.

 Detain or isolate uninjured persons or

equipment. Delay decontamination for such

persons/equipment until instructed by radiation

authorities.

 Use radiation detection devices, if possible, to

determine if patients are contaminated with

radiological material.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

 III. INCIDENT SPECIFIC ACTIONS (CBRNE)

• Chemical

• Biological

• Radiological/Nuclear

• Explosive

o General Information

o Response Recommendations

 Unexploded Device/Pre

Blast Operations

 Exploded Device/Post Blast

Operations
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-1

Section III-4: Explosives

General Information

 Explosive devices may be designed to

disseminate chemical, biological, or radiological

agents.

 Explosives may produce secondary hazards,

such as unstable structures, damaged utilities,

hanging debris, void spaces, and other

physical hazards.

 Devices may contain anti-personnel features

such as nails, shrapnel, fragmentation design,

or other material.

WARNING: Always be alert for the possibility of 

secondary devices
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-2

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Outward warning signs:

 Oral or written threats.

 Container/vehicle that appears out of

place.

 Devices attached to compressed gas

cylinders, flammable liquid containers, bulk

storage containers, pipelines, and other

chemical containers (dirty bomb).

 Oversized packages with oily stains,

chemical odors, excessive postage,

protruding wires, excessive binding, no

return address, etc.

DOT-ERGs #112 and 114 provide additional

information.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-3

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations

Unexploded Device/Pre-Blast Operations

Command post should be located away from

areas where improvised secondary devices may

be placed, e.g., mailboxes, trashcans, etc.

Stage incoming units:

 Away from line of sight of target area.

 Away from buildings with large amounts of

glass.

 In such a way as to utilize distant structural

and/or natural barriers to assist with

protection.

Isolate/deny entry.

Secure perimeter based on the size of the

device.

WARNING: Coordinate activities with law

enforcement and be prepared for operations if the

device activates.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-4

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Unexploded Device/Pre-Blast Operations

Attempt to identify device characteristics:

 Type of threat.

 Location.

 Time.

 Package.

 Device.

 Associated history.

Standoff distance should be commensurate

with the size of the device:

 Car bomb = 1500 ft. (increase distance for

larger vehicles)

 Package bomb (1–25 lbs.) = 1000 ft.

 Pipe bomb = 500ft.

Use extreme caution if caller identifies a time for

detonation. It is very possible that the device

will activate prior to the announced time.

Discontinue use of all radios, mobile data

terminals (MDTs), and cell phones in

accordance with local protocols.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-5

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Unexploded Device/Pre-Blast Operations

 Evaluate scene conditions:

Potential number of affected people.

Exposure problems.

Potential hazards: utilities, structures, fires,

chemicals, etc.

Water supply.

Evaluate available resources (EMS,

HazMat, Technical Rescue, etc.).

Review pre-plans for affected buildings.

Make appropriate notifications.

Develop action plan that identifies incident

priorities, key strategies, tactical objectives,

potential tactical assignments, and key

positions in the ICS/Unified Command.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-6

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Exploded Device/Post-Blast Operations

Command post should be located away from

areas where improvised secondary devices may

be placed, e.g., mailboxes, trashcans, etc.

Initial arriving unit(s):

 Stage a safe distance from reported

incident (or where you first encounter

debris).

Away from line of sight of target area.

Away from buildings with large amounts

of glass.

 Utilize distant structural and/or natural

barriers to assist with protection.

Stage incoming units at a greater distance.

Consider using multiple staging sites.

Debris field may contain unexploded bomb

WARNING: Be aware of the possibility of 

secondary devices and their possible location.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-7

material.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-8

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Exploded Device/Post-Blast Operations

Discontinue use of all radios, mobile data

terminals (MDTs), and cell phones in

accordance with local protocols.

Remove all citizens and ambulatory victims from

the affected area.

Determine on-scene conditions and evaluate

resource requirements:

 Explosion.

 Fire.

 Structural collapse/unstable buildings.

 Search/rescue (nonambulatory/trapped

victims).

 Exposures.

 Utilities.

 Number of patients and extent of injuries.

 Other hazards.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-9

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Exploded Device/Post-Blast Operations

Make notifications (law enforcement, hospitals,

emergency management) as appropriate:

 Local.

 State.

 Federal.

Complete hazard and risk assessment.

Personnel should only be allowed to enter the

blast area for life safety purposes.

Remove viable patients to safe refuge area.

Direct ambulatory patients to care.

WARNING: If it is determined that

entry/intervention must occur (life safety), the

following procedures should be implemented.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-10

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Exploded Device/Post-Blast Operations

Limit number of personnel and minimize

exposure time. Personnel entering the blast

area should:

 Wear full protective clothing, including

SCBA.

 Monitor atmosphere:

Radiation.

Flammability.

Toxicity.

Chemical.

pH.

Establish emergency gross decontamination.

WARNING: Area should be evacuated of all

emergency responders if there is any indication of

a secondary device.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Explosives III-4-11

Section III-4: Explosives (cont.)

Response Recommendations (cont.)

Exploded Device/Post-Blast Operations

 Remove patients from the initial blast site to a

safe refuge area.

 Triage/treatment area established at the

casualty collection point  (if established):

Notify hospitals.

Implement mass casualty plan.

 Do not allow rescuers to enter unsafe buildings

or high-hazard areas.

 Control utilities and protect exposures from a

defensive position.

 Preserve and maintain evidence.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

 IV. AGENCY-RELATED ACTIONS

• Fire Department

o As the Incident Progresses,

prepare to Initiate Unified

Command System

• Emergency Medical Services

o If First on Scene

o If Command Has Been Established

o Patient Care Mainstay Worksheet

• Law Enforcement

o If First on Scene

o If Command Has Been Established

• HazMat

• Assisting Agencies 
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Fire Department IV-1-1

Section IV-1: Fire Department

In a terrorist incident where fire is present any

fire may present intense conditions:

 Rapid spread.

 High heat.

 Multiple fires.

 Chemical accelerant.

In a suspected terrorist incident be aware that:

 Terrorists may sabotage fire protection

devices.

 Be alert for booby traps.

 Be aware of the possibility of multiple

devices.

Isolate/secure the scene, deny entry, establish

control zones.

Establish command.

Evaluate scene safety/security.

Stage incoming units.

Gather information regarding the incident,

number of patients, etc.

Assign ICS positions as needed.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Fire Department IV-1-2

Section IV-1: Fire Department (cont.)

 Initiate notifications (i.e., hospitals, law

enforcement, state/federal agencies, etc.)

 Request additional resources.

 Use appropriate self-protective measures:

Proper PPE.

Time, distance, and shielding.

Minimize number of personnel exposed to

danger.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Fire Department IV-1-3

Section IV-1: Fire Department (cont.)

 Initiate public safety measures:

Rescue.

Evacuate.

Protect in place.

 Establish water supply:

Suppression activities.

Decontamination.

 Control and isolate patients (away from the

hazard, at the edge of the hot/warm zone).

 Coordinate activities with law enforcement.

 Begin and/or assist with triage, administering

antidotes, and treatment.

 Begin gross mass decontamination 

operations.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Fire Department IV-1-4

Section IV-1: Fire Department (cont.)

As the incident progresses, prepare to initiate

Unified Command  system

 Establish Unified Command  post, including

representatives from the following

organizations:

Emergency Medical Services.

Law enforcement.

Hospitals/public health.

Emergency management.

Public works.

 Establish and maintain chain of custody for

evidence protection.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Emergency Medical Services IV-2-1

Section IV-2: Emergency Medical

Services

If First on Scene:

Isolate/secure the scene, establish control

zones.

Establish command.

Evaluate scene safety/security.

Stage incoming units

If Command Has Been Established:

Report to and/or communicate with command

post.

Gather information regarding:

 Type of event.

 Number of patients.

 Severity of injuries.

 Signs and symptoms.

Establish the EMS Group within the Incident

Command System (ICS).

Notify hospitals.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Emergency Medical Services IV-2-2

Section IV-2: Emergency Medical

Services (cont.)

 Request additional resources as appropriate:

Basic Life Support (BLS)/Advanced Life

Support (ALS).

Medivac helicopter (trauma/burn only).

Medical equipment and supply caches.

Metropolitan Medical Response System

(MMRS).

National Medical Response Team (NMRT).

Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT).

Disaster Mortuary Response Team

(DMORT).

 Use appropriate self-protective measures:

Proper PPE.

Time, distance, and shielding.

Minimize number of personnel exposed to

danger.

 Initiate mass casualty procedure.

 Evaluate the need for casualty collection point

(CCP) for ambulatory (walking wounded)

patients  and a patient treatment area.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Emergency Medical Services IV-2-3

 Control and isolate patients (away from the

hazard, at the edge of the hot/warm zone  ).

Section IV-2: Emergency Medical

Services (cont.)

 Ensure patients are decontaminated prior to

being forwarded to the cold zone .

 Triage, administer antidotes, treat and transport

victims.

 Evidence preservation/collection:

Recognize potential evidence.

Report findings to appropriate authority.

Consider embedded objects as possible

evidence.

Secure evidence found in ambulance or at

hospital.

 Establish and maintain chain of custody for

evidence preservation.

 Ensure participation in Unified Command 

System when implemented.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Emergency Medical Services IV-2-4

Section IV-2: Emergency Medical

Services (cont.)

PATIENT CARE MAINSTAYS WORKSHEET

APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE MEASURES FOR EMS

PERSONNEL

DURING DECONTAMINATION AFTER

DECONTAMINATION

PATIENT EXPOSURE CONSIDERATIONS

SUPPORTIVE CARE CONSIDERATIONS

DECONTAMINATION CONSIDERATIONS
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Emergency Medical Services IV-2-5

Section IV-2: Emergency Medical

Services (cont.)

PATIENT CARE MAINSTAYS WORKSHEET

(cont.)

PERSONAL PROTECTION CONSIDERATIONS

(Potential infectious diseases or secondary contamination)

MEDICAL INTERVENTION

BLS TREATMENT ALS TREATMENT

PATIENT TRANSPORT AND TRANSFER CONSIDERATIONS
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

HazMat IV-4-1

Section IV-3: Law Enforcement

If First on Scene:

Isolate/secure the scene, establish control

zones.

Establish command.

Stage incoming units.

If Command Has Been Established:

Report to command post.

Evaluate scene safety/security:

 Ongoing criminal activity.

 Consider victims to be possible terrorists.

 Secondary devices.

 Additional threats.

Gather witness statements/observations and

document.

Initiate law enforcement notifications:

 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms

(ATF).

 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)/bomb

squad.

 State Police Agecy.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

HazMat IV-4-2

Private security forces.

Section IV-3: Law Enforcement (cont.)

 Request additional resources.

 Secure outer perimeter.

 Traffic control considerations:

Staging areas.

Entry/egress.

 Use appropriate self-protective measures:

Time, distance, and shielding.

Minimize number of personnel exposed to

danger.

Proper PPE (if provided).

 Initiate public safety measures:

Evacuate.

Protect in place.

 Assist with control/isolation of patients.

 Coordinate activities with other response

agencies.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

HazMat IV-4-3

Section IV-3: Law Enforcement (cont.)

 Evidence preservation:

Diagram the area.

Photograph the area.

Prepare a narrative description.

Maintain an evidence log.

 Participate in a Unified Command System 

with:

Fire/rescue services.

Emergency Medical Services.

Hospitals/public health.

Emergency management.

Public works.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

HazMat IV-4-4

Section IV-4: HazMat (cont.)

 Establish the HazMat group within the ICS.

 Provide technical information/assistance to:

Command.

EMS providers.

Hospitals.

Law enforcement.

 Detect/monitor to identify the agent, determine

concentrations and ensure proper control

zones.

 Continually reassess control zones.

 Enter the hot zone  (chemical PPE) to

perform rescue, product confirmation, and

reconnaissance.

 Product control/mitigation may be implemented

in conjunction with expert technical guidance.

 Improve hazardous environments:

Ventilation.

Control HVAC.

Control utilities.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

HazMat IV-4-5

Section IV-4: HazMat (cont.)

 Implement a technical decontamination corridor

for Hazardous Materials Response Team

(HMRT) personnel.

 Coordinate and assist with mass

decontamination.

 Provide specialized equipment as necessary,

such as tents for operations, shelter, etc.

 Assist law enforcement personnel with

evidence preservation/collection,

decontamination, etc.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assisting Agencies IV-5-1

Section IV-5: Assisting Agencies

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

 WMD Coordinator

 HazMat Response Unit (HMRU)

US Army Medical Research Institute of

Chemical Defense (USAMRICD)

US Army Medical Research Institute of

Infectious Disease (USAMRIID)

US Army Medical Research Institute of

Chemical Causality Care Division (USAMRICD)

US Army Tech Escort Unit (TEU)

Soldier and Biological Chemical Command

(SBCCOM)

Public works

Public health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC)

Agency for Toxic Substance Disease Registry

(ATSDR)

Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA)

Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT)

Disaster Mortuary Response Team (DMORT)

Chemical/Biological Incident Response Force

(CBIRF)

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms

(ATF)

Department of Energy (DOE)

Nuclear Emergency Search Team (NEST)

Local emergency managers
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assisting Agencies IV-5-2

Section IV-5: Assisting Agencies (cont.)

 Assorted state agencies (Local Law

Enforcement, State Police, etc.)

This list is not all encompassing. Different types of

incidents will generate different responses by

assisting agencies. Supplement this list with

local/state resources as needed.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assisting Agencies IV-5-3

Section IV-5: Assisting Agencies (cont.)

Local Law Enforcement: 

FBI Area Office WMD Coordinator: 

Local Emergency Management

Point of Contact: 

Public Health/Medical Representative: 

Public Works: 

Utilities:

Gas: 

Electric: 

Water: 

Sewer: 

Telephone Service Provider: 

National Response Center: 1-800-424-8800 

Center for Disease Control: 1-800-311-3435 

Hospital Contacts: 
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Assisting Agencies IV-5-4

 

 
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-1

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms

Asymptomatic Exposed persons who are not

exhibiting signs/symptoms of

exposure.

B-NICE Pertaining to biological, nuclear,

incendiary, chemical, or

explosives.

CBRNE Pertaining to chemical,

biological, radiological, nuclear,

and explosive.

Casualty

Collection Point

(CCP)

Predefined location at which

patients are collected, triaged,

and provided with initial medical

care.

Choke Point Natural or man-made area that

may present congestion hazard.

Cold (Support)

Zone

Clean area outside the inner

perimeter where command and

support functions take place.

Special protective clothing is not

required in this area.

CST National Guard WMD

Civil Support Team

DMAT Disaster Medical Assistance

Team
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-2

DMORT Disaster Mortuary Response

Team

DOT-ERG DOT Emergency Response

Guide
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-3

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

Egress Designated exit area.

EOD Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Gross

Decontaminatio

n

Initial decontamination to

remove large amounts of

decontaminants.

HMRT Hazardous Materials Response

Team

Hot (Exclusion)

Zone

Area immediately around the

incident where serious threat of

harm exists. It should extend far

enough to prevent adverse

effects from CBRNE agents to

personnel outside the zone.

Entry into the hot zone requires

appropriately trained personnel

and use of proper personal

protective equipment.

HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air

Conditioning

ICS Incident Command System

Inner Perimeter Secured inner area of

operations.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-4

Mass

Decontaminatio

n

Decontamination process used

on large number of

contaminated victims.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-5

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

MRS Metropolitan Response System

MMRS Metropolitan Medical Response

Team

NMRT National Medical Response

Team

Outer Perimeter Outermost area from hazard that

is secure.

Patient Staging

Area (PSA)

Area where patients may receive

continued medical treatment.

Persistent Agent An agent that upon release

retains its casualty-producing

effects for an extended period

of time, usually anywhere from

30 minutes to several days. A

persistent agent usually has a

low evaporation rate and its

vapor is heavier than air.

Therefore, its vapor cloud tends

to hug the ground. It is

considered to be a long-term

hazard. Although inhalation

hazards are still a concern, take

extreme caution to avoid skin

contact as well.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-6

POC Point of Contact
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-7

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

Point Source Letter, package, or dispersal

area of agent.

PPE Personal Protective Equipment

Protect-In-Place Method of protecting public by

limiting exposure.

Rally Point A predetermined location to

which all persons evacuate in an

emergency. In industry, facilities

are evacuated and a rally point

is usually predetermined. It is at

this rally point that resources

can regroup and a revised plan

can be established.

Safe Refuge

Area (SRA)

An area within the

contamination reduction zone

for assembling individuals who

are witnesses to the incident.

This assemblage will provide for

the separation of contaminated

persons from non-contaminated

persons.

SCBA Self-Contained Breathing

Apparatus
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-8

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

SLUDGEM Acronym for salivation,

lacrimation, urination,

defecation, gastric distress,

emesis and miosis.

Symptomatic Exhibiting signs/symptoms of

exposure.

Time, Distance

and Shielding

(TDS)

Three types of protective

measures commonly associated

with hazardous materials

training.

TRACEM-P The acronym used to identify

the six types of harm one may

encounter at a terrorist incident:

thermal, radioactive,

asphyxiation, chemical,

etiological, mechanical and

psychological. Note: Some

sources use the acronym TEAM

CPR, which stands for thermal,

etiological, asphyxiation,

mechanical, chemical,

psychological, and radioactive.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-9

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

Unified

Command

In ICS, Unified Command is a

unified team effort which allows

all agencies with responsibility

for the incident to establish a

common set of incident

objectives and strategies. This is

accomplished without losing or

abdicating agency authority,

responsibility or accountability.

VEE Venezuelan equine encephalitis
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-10

Section V-1: Glossary of Terms (cont.)

Weapon of

Mass

Destruction

(WMD)

1) Any explosive, incendiary,

poison gas, bomb, grenade,

or rocket having a propellant

charge of more than four

ounces, missile having an

explosive or incendiary

charge of more than onequarter ounce, or mine or

device similar to the above.

2) Poison gas.

3) Any weapon involving a

disease organism.

4) Any weapon designed to

release radiation at a level

dangerous to human life.
Emergency Response to Terrorism

Job Aid

Glossary of Terms V-11