BINATIONAL PREVENTION
 

AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
 

BETWEEN
 

SAN LUIS, ARIZONA AND SAN LUIS RIO COLORADO, SONORA
 

February 25, 2000 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 

SECTION PAGE 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ....................................................... v 
 

FORWARD ................................................................ vii 
 

UNDERSTANDING ON COOPERATION ......................................... 1 
 

STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES ................................................. 3 
 

24-HOUR EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION NUMBERS .............................. 5 
 

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION FORM ........................................... 7 
 

1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................... 9 
 

1.1 San Luis, Arizona/San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora Plan Area .............. 10 
 

1.1.1 Physical Environment ....................................... 10 
 

1.1.2 Population ................................................ 11 
 

1.1.3 Economy ................................................. 12 
 

1.1.4 Infrastructure .............................................. 12 
 

1.1.5 Cultural Significance ........................................ 13 
 

1.2 Authority ....................................................... 13 
 

1.2.1 Statutes ................................................... 13 
 

1.2.2 Regulations ............................................... 14 
 

1.2.3 Binational Agreements ...................................... 14 
 

1.3 Other Applicable Contingency Plans .................................. 14 
 

1.3.1 Binational Contingency Plans ................................. 14 
 

1.3.2 United States Contingency Plans ............................... 14 
 

1.3.2.1 Local and Regional Plans and Mutual Aid Agreements ...... 14 
 

1.3.2.2 State of Arizona Plans ................................ 15 
 

1.3.2.3 Federal Plans ....................................... 15 
 

1.3.3 Mexico Contingency Plans ................................... 16 
 

1.3.3.1 Local and Regional Plans and Mutual Aid Agreements ...... 16 
 

1.3.3.2 State of Sonora Plans ................................ 16 
 

1.3.3.3 Federal Plans ....................................... 16 
 

2.0 HAZARDS ANALYSIS AND RISK REDUCTION ........................... 19 
 

2.1 Fixed Facilities Using or Handling Hazardous Materials .................. 19 
 

2.1.1 San Luis, Arizona .......................................... 19 
 

2.1.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora ................................ 19 
 

2.2 Transportation Systems ............................................ 21 
 

2.2.1 San Luis, Arizona .......................................... 21

 2.2.1.1 Roads ............................................. 21

 2.2.1.2 Railroads .......................................... 21

 2.2.1.3 Other Means of Transport ............................. 21 
 

2.2.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora ................................ 22

 2.2.2.1 Roads ............................................. 22

 2.2.2.2 Railroads .......................................... 22

 2.2.2.3 Other Means of Transport ............................. 22 
 

2.3 Ports of Entry .................................................... 22 
 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 i 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

SECTION PAGE 

2.4 Sensitive Populations and Vulnerable Areas ............................ 23 
 

2.4.1 San Luis, Arizona .......................................... 23

 2.4.1.1 Sensitive Populations ................................ 23

 2.4.1.2 Population Distribution ............................... 23

 2.4.1.3 Sensitive Natural Resource Areas ....................... 24 
 

2.4.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora ................................ 24

 2.4.2.1 Sensitive Populations ................................ 24

 2.4.2.2 Population Distribution ............................... 24

 2.4.2.3 Sensitive Natural Resource Areas ....................... 25 
 

2.5 Drinking Water Supplies and Wastewater Treatment ..................... 25 
 

2.6 Risk Reduction Opportunities and Recommendations .................... 26 
 

3.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE OPERATIONS ................................. 27 
 

3.1 Notification ..................................................... 27 
 

3.2 Private Response Mechanisms ....................................... 27 
 

3.3 Local Response .................................................. 27 
 

3.3.1 City of San Luis, Arizona Mutual Aid Request .................... 27 
 

3.3.2 City of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora Mutual Aid Request ......... 28 
 

3.3.3 Local Response Duties ....................................... 28 
 

3.4 State Response ................................................... 29 
 

3.5 Federal Response ................................................. 29 
 

3.6 Joint Response Team .............................................. 30 
 

3.6.1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency .......................... 30 
 

3.6.2 Regional Response Team ..................................... 30 
 

3.6.3 Civil Protection ............................................ 30 
 

3.7 Joint Response Team Responsibilities ................................. 31 
 

4.0 INCIDENT RESPONSE OPERATIONS AND RESOURCES ................... 33 
 

4.1 Discovery and Verification ......................................... 33 
 

4.2 Preliminary Assessment and Initiation of Action ........................ 33 
 

4.2.1 Preliminary Assessment ...................................... 33 
 

4.2.2 Initiation of Action .......................................... 33 
 

4.3 Containment ..................................................... 34 
 

4.4 Documentation and Cost Recovery ................................... 34 
 

4.5 Evacuation or Shelter-in-Place ...................................... 34 
 

4.6 Post-Incident Management ......................................... 35 
 

4.7 Response and Cleanup Funding Availability ............................ 35 
 

4.7.1 State Funds ................................................ 36 
 

4.7.2 Federal Funds .............................................. 36 
 

4.8 Communications ................................................. 36 
 

4.9 Health and Safety ................................................ 36 
 

4.10 Response Resources ............................................... 37 
 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

ii February 25, 2000 
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued) 

SECTION PAGE 

5.0 TRAINING AND EXERCISES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 
 

5.1 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 
 

5.2 Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 
 

LIST OF APPENDICES 

Appendix A Hazardous Materials and Emergency Response Contacts Directory 

Appendix B Facilities - San Luis, Arizona 

Appendix C Facilities - San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Appendix D U.S. Customs Procedures for Cross-Border Response 

Appendix E U.S. INS Procedures for Cross-Border Response 

Appendix F Cross Border EMS Response Sequence 

Appendix G San Luis, Arizona Hazardous Materials Emergency Procedures 

Appendix H Response Resources 

Appendix I Abbreviations and Acronyms 

Appendix J Definitions 

Appendix K Revision Diary 

LIST OF MAPS 

Map 1 U.S.-Mexico Sister Cities 

Map 2 San Luis, Arizona/San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora Region 

Map 3 San Luis, Arizona/San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Map 4 San Luis, Arizona 

Map 5 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 iii 
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
 

This plan was initiated and prepared by a Steering Committee for the communities of San Luis, 

Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. The Steering Committee members include: 

Arturo Miranda Chief, Fire Department, San Luis, Arizona 

Othon Luna	 Assistant Chief, Fire Department, San Luis, Arizona 

Francisco G. Tabanico	 Director, Civil Protection, San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, Mexico 

Mike Foster	 State On Scene Coordinator, Arizona Department of 

Environmental Quality (ADEQ) 

Saul Torres	 Legal Council, Civil Protection, Sonora, Mexico 

Chuck Westerfield	 Hazardous Materials Coordinator, U.S. Customs Service 

Marco Terrones	 Operations Supervisor, Mexican Customs 

Jose Herrera	 Immigration Inspector, U.S. Immigration and Nat. Service 

Manuel Quiroz Colosio	 Agent, Mexican Immigration 

Lauren Volpini	 U.S.-Mexico Border Liaison, U.S. EPA Region IX 

Gilberto Celaya Deputy Director, PROFEPA, Sonora, Mexico
 

The plan was prepared with the support of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region IX.
 

The Steering Committee would like to thank the following people for their assistance:
 

Carlos Kitazawa Chief, Civil Protection, Sonora, Mexico 

Michael Mann U.S.-Mexico Border Specialist, U.S. EPA Region IX 

Carmen Noriega English/Spanish Translator 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 v 
BINATIONAL PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
 

FOR THE REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF 

SAN LUIS, ARIZONA, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

AND SAN LUIS RIO COLORADO, SONORA, MEXICO 

FORWARD 

The U.S. and Mexico signed a Joint Contingency Plan (JCP) that established a foundation for 

cooperative efforts regarding preparedness, mitigation, response and prevention of hazardous 

substance releases in the border area. The JCP serves as an umbrella plan which sets forth a broad 

framework for planning efforts for 14 pairs of adjacent cities on each side of the U.S.-Mexico 

border. The federal governments of the United States of America and Mexico have recognized the 

advantages for each city to share resources and manpower in times of national disasters. So, too, 

the municipalities of San Luis, Arizona, and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora recognize their need 

to cooperate with each other in times of local disasters and to take measures to reduce risks and 

mitigate incidents. 

In the event of a disaster of serious proportions that may require a great deal of coordination and 

cooperation, a plan between the two cities to prevent and respond to disasters will better ensure a full 

and effective utilization of resources and manpower essential to protect the public health, safety, and 

environment within the border area. 

This Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan identifies vulnerable areas and potential 

sources of risk and recommends some key risk reduction measures. The plan also contains a complete 

contacts directory of names and organizations that are important to prevention, preparedness, response 

and mitigation of incidents involving hazardous substances. 

When a disaster has been declared, this Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan will not 

supersede any local, state, or federal authorities or plans in effect. This plan will complement existing 

local, state, regional, and federal plans. 

All regional and local municipal elected and appointed officials with emergency responsibilities should 

be fully knowledgeable of the content of this document and be prepared to fulfill their responsibilities 

when requested and when capable. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 vii 
BINATIONAL PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
 

UNDERSTANDING ON COOPERATION BETWEEN THE CITIES OF SAN LUIS,
 

ARIZONA, AND SAN LUIS RIO COLORADO, SONORA, FOR PREPAREDNESS FOR
 

AND RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES CAUSED BY RELEASES,
 

SPILLS, FIRES, OR EXPLOSIONS OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES
 

The cities of San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora have agreed to provide mutual 

cooperation to effectively reduce the risk of and respond to threats to the public health, safety and 

welfare of the communities caused by explosions, fires, spills, or releases of hazardous substances into 

the environment. This understanding is to reinforce the cooperation between the cities to be able to 

prevent and respond more efficiently to these emergencies. 

The following statement of principles is intended to serve as a guide to emergency response authorities 

in both cities. 

1.	 The agencies of both municipalities charged with emergency responsibilities will seek to ensure 

that in areas of common concern, plans of the two municipalities for the emergency use of 

manpower, material resources, supplies, systems, and services shall, where feasible and 

practicable, be compatible and involve mutual training. To this end, a Binational Emergency 

Planning Committee (BEPC) will be established and meet regularly. The BEPC will address 

planning and preparedness activities and conduct an annual binational exercise to evaluate and 

improve the coordination of this Sister City plan. 

2.	 The city providing the assistance will supervise their necessary personnel and assigned 

equipment. The group receiving aid will have authorized persons to provide general directions 

related to the work. The Potentially Responsible Party (PRP) for the spill receiving the 

assistance will be responsible for providing the responders the necessary materials, food, shelter, 

temporary housing, gasoline and lubricants for the equipment and any other such items needed 

to respond adequately. 

3.	 It is mutually agreed that this understanding does not relieve any of the mentioned parties of the 

obligation necessary for providing protection against fires or other emergencies, according to 

their respective jurisdictions, and to use reasonable diligence in maintaining all equipment in 

adequate condition according to industry standards. The decision to render aid to the Sister City 

rests ultimately with the Fire Chief in San Luis, Arizona and the Director of Civil Protection in 

San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. Each Sister City may decide not to render aid, depending on 

each incident, if its resources are not capable of meeting obligations in its own jurisdiction. 

4.	 The municipalities involved in this understanding will not be required to pay compensation 

to the other for services rendered. 

5.	 Each party agrees to hold each other harmless from acts which may arise resulting in any act 

or omission of any party’s personnel during such time that said personnel are serving in the 

jurisdiction of any party for assistance pursuant to the terms of this understanding. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 1 
6. This understanding shall not be construed as an agreement for the benefit of any third party, 

taking effect at the time of execution and will continue until rescinded. 

7.	 Every two years the parties will examine the present understanding in light of its application in 

order to decide if it must be modified. Nevertheless, the parties may examine this matter and 

propose changes to the other parties by personal service or certified mail. Changes will be 

considered effective starting on the date of the amendment’s signing by all parties. 

8.	 Any party to this understanding may withdraw at any time giving thirty days prior written notice 

to all the parties. On the thirty-first day after the notice, such withdrawal will become effective. 

9.	 Any party may change its service address by five days written notice to each of the other 

parties. On the sixth day after the notice, such change of address is effective. 

10.	 Notice of withdrawal and change of address shall be served by personal service or by the 

respective party’s Postal Service certified mail addressed to: 

Office of the Mayor Presidencia Municipal 

City of San Luis Ayuntamiento de San Luis Río Colorado 

23222 1st Street Avenida Juárez/4a. Calle, Zona Centro 

San Luis, Arizona 85349 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

C.P. 83400 

In witness, whereof, this understanding has been executed on the 25th day of February, 2000.

 //original signed by// //original signed by// 

Alex Joe Harper Ing. Florencio Díaz Armenta 

Mayor Presidente Municipal 

San Luis, Arizona San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

//original signed by// //original signed by// 

Alex Ruiz Lic. Martín Francisco Rodríguez Estrella 

City Administrator Secretario del Ayuntamiento 

San Luis, Arizona San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

2 February 25, 2000 
 

BINATIONAL PREVENTION AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
 

STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES CONCERNING
 

UNITED STATES - MEXICO COOPERATION
 

ON EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING
 

The following Statement of Principles is intended to serve as a guide to emergency response 

authorities in both cities. 

1.	 Nothing in this understanding shall derogate or diminish the application of United States law 

in the United States or Mexican law in Mexico. However, the authorities of either country may 

request the assistance of the other country in seeking appropriate alleviation if the normal 

application of law in either country might lead to delay or difficulty in the rapid execution of 

necessary emergency response measures. 

2. The agencies of both governments charged with emergency response responsibilities will seek 

to ensure that in areas of common concern, plans of the two governments for the emergency use 

of manpower, material resources, supplies, systems and services shall, where feasible and 

practicable, be compatible and involve mutual training. The decision to render aid to the Sister 

City rests ultimately with the Fire Chief of San Luis, Arizona and the Director of Civil 

Protection of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. Each Sister City may decide not to render aid, 

depending on each incident, if their resources are not capable of meeting obligations in their 

own jurisdiction. 

3.	 Each government will use its best efforts to facilitate the movement of evacuees, refugees, 

emergency response personnel, equipment or other resources into its territory or across its 

territory from one area of the country to another when such movement is desired to facilitate 

emergency response operations in either country. To this end: 

a.	 To the maximum extent permitted by law and regulation, the Government of the United 

States and the Government of Mexico, during a period of an emergency, will use their 

best efforts to reduce to a minimum any delays which might otherwise be caused by 

border crossing requirements. Both governments will also use their best efforts to 

ensure that emergency response equipment, facilities, and supplies may be used 

effectively and to mutual advantage in joint efforts, tests, preparations and exercises. 

b.	 The emergency response agencies of both governments will consult together to identify 

and remove any serious potential impediments to cross-border assistance, emergency 

operations and the cross border flow of commodities for emergency response. 

Unresolved problems will be reported to the Joint Response Team for appropriate 

action. 

4.	 For the purpose of emergency relief, health and welfare services, each government will use its 

best efforts to ensure that those citizens or residents of the other country on its territory are 

treated in a manner no less favorable than its own citizens. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 3 
5.	 Each government will use its discretionary powers as far as possible to avoid a levy of any 

national tax on the services, equipment and supplies of the other country when the latter are 

engaged in emergency response activities on the territory of the other, and will use their best 

efforts to encourage state, provincial, and local authorities to do likewise. 

6.	 When transportation, communication and related facilities and equipment which are subject to 

the control of one government are made available for emergency use to the other government, 

the charges to that government shall not exceed those paid by similar agencies of the 

government making these resources available. To this end, mutually acceptable arrangements 

shall be worked out as necessary by the two governments. 

7.	 In its emergency planning, each government will include provisions for adequate security and 

care for the personnel, equipment, and resources of the other country entering its territory by 

mutual agreement in pursuance of authorized emergency response activities. Such provisions 

will also ensure access to supplies necessary for their return. 

8.	 Transportation and other equipment originating in one country at the onset of an emergency 

may be temporarily employed under mutually agreed terms by the appropriate authority of the 

country in which the equipment is located. 

9.	 Perishable or other readily consumable supplies located in one country at the time of an 

emergency but owned by parties in the other country may be disposed of under mutually agreed 

terms by the appropriate emergency response authorities of the two countries. 

10.	 Each government will call to the attention of its state, provincial, local or other authorities in 

areas adjacent to the international border the desirability of achieving compatibility in 

emergency response planning between the United States and Mexico. For the purpose of 

achieving the most effective emergency response planning cooperation possible between the 

United States and Mexico, each government will, in a manner consistent with national plans and 

policies, also encourage and facilitate cooperative emergency arrangements between adjacent 

jurisdictions on matters falling within the competence of such jurisdictions. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

4 February 25, 2000 
24-HOUR EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION
 

Any substantial threat to the public health, safety, or the environment due to an accidental spill or 

release of an oil or hazardous material into the air, surface water, groundwater, or onto the ground, 

should be reported to: 

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

First Response 

911 (from U.S.) 

001-520-627-8881 (from Mexico) 

National Response Center 

1-800-424-8802 (from U.S.)
 

001-202-267-2675 (from Mexico)
 

U.S. EPA Region IX Spill Phone 

1-214-665-2222 (from U.S.)
 

001-214-665-2222 (from Mexico)
 

State of Arizona
 

Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ):
 

(Releases from fixed facilities)
 

1-602-390-7894 (from U.S.)
 

001-602-390-7894 (from Mexico)
 

State of Arizona 

Department of Public Safety (DPS): 

(Releases during transportation)
 

1-602-223-2212 (from U.S.)
 

001-602-223-2212 (from Mexico)
 

UNITED MEXICAN STATES 

First Response 

060 (from Mexico) 

011-526-536-2125 (from U.S.) 

011-526-534-3282 (from U.S.) 

National Communications Center 

(CENACOM), Civil Protection Agency 

(Federal) 

01-800-004-1300 (from Mexico) 

01-5-550-4885 (from Mexico) 

011-525-550-4885 (from U.S) 

State Communications Center, Civil Protection 

Agency, Sonora 

01-62-17-54-30 (from Mexico) 

01-62-17-38-16 (from Mexico) 

01-62-17-54-10 (from Mexico) 

011-52-62-17-54-30 (from U.S.) 

011-52-62-17-54-10 (from U.S.) 

011-52-62-17-38-16 (from U.S.) 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 5 
EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION FORM 

When any party is notified of an actual or threatened spill, release, fire or explosion of a hazardous 

substance conforming to this Contingency Plan, the following information should be provided: 

a. Reporting party (name of functionary or responder, 

telephone number, and address)/informante (nombre del 

funcionario o de él que responde, número de teléfono y 

dirección):

 b. Suspected responsible party (name, telephone 

number, and address)/Probable entidad responsable 

(nombre, número de teléfono y dirección): 

c. Description of incident (how the release, spill, fire, or explosion occurred)/descripción del incidente (cómo occurrió 

la fuga, el derrame, el fuego o la explosión): 

d. Date and time of incident/fecha y hora del incidente: 

e. Vehicle identification number/número de identificación del vehículo: 

f. Location/lugar: 

g. Type of container and capacity/tipo de contenedor y capacidad: 

h. Specific identifiers (e.g., cross road, railroad milepost)/identificadores específicos (e.g., intersección, kilómetro de 

la vía del ferrocarril): 

I. Hazardous substances involved/sustancias peligrosas 

involucradas: 

j. Quantity/cantidad: 

k. Spill or release to air, soil, or water: Where is it going? How much to water?/derrame o escape al aire, suelo o 

agua: ¿hacia dónde va? ¿qué cantidad va al agua?: 

l. Corrective actions taken/acciones de corrección tomadas: 

m. Roads closed/caminos cerrados: 

n. Number of deaths, injuries, or evacuations/número de muertos, heridos o evacuaciones: 

o. Other notifications made/otras notificaciones hechas: 

p. Additional comments/comentarios adicionales: 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 7 
1.0 INTRODUCTION 

In January 1988, the United States of America and the United Mexican States signed the Joint United 

States of America - United Mexican States Contingency Plan for Accidental Releases of Hazardous 

Substances along the Border. The Joint Contingency Plan (JCP) provides a framework for cooperation 

between Mexico and the United States in response to an accidental chemical release incident that may 

pose a significant threat to both countries, or that affects one country to such an extent that assistance 

is necessary. As a part of the preparedness and response component of the Joint Contingency Plan, a 

Sister Cities program was established, which pairs 28 cities along opposite sides of the U.S.-Mexico 

border from California through Texas. This program calls for the preparation of Sister City Hazardous 

Materials Incident Contingency Plans for each of the 14 pairs of cities (Map 1). 

This document is the joint contingency plan for the San Luis, Arizona, and San Luis Río Colorado, 

Sonora area. It represents a summary of the hazardous materials notification and response protocols in 

place for San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, and other jurisdictions, as promulgated 

by local plans. This plan specifically addresses the requirement under the Joint Contingency Plan to 

prepare Sister Cities plans. It is not intended to replace or supplant any other plans in effect in the 

region, but is designed to aid in a binational response to a hazardous materials incident that may affect 

the border. 

This plan at no time usurps existing federal, state, county, regional, or municipal plans within the 

jurisdictional boundary addressed by this plan. 

If the region affected declares an emergency under this plan to be in effect, the municipality affected 

will, subject to its own disaster plan, inform state and federal officials, as identified in their respective 

plans. The Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan is activated for the short term only and 

it will provide specifics for the coordination of resources and equipment. 

The initial and prime responsibility for providing immediate assistance rests with the city, county or 

regional government affected. It is at this level that services such as fire, police, health, social services, 

public works, and public utilities are located. An emergency under the Binational Prevention and 

Emergency Response Plan may be declared when (1) a city, county or region so requests the head of 

government, (2) the emergency, due to geography, may dictate evacuation into a neighboring region, 

(3) that the municipality, county or region affected may request mutual aid support, supplying 

manpower, resources, social services, fire, public works, emergency health services, and other 

specialized expertise as deemed necessary by the affected municipality, or (4) the emergency may affect 

a neighboring municipality, county, or region. 

The Plan promotes timely and effective coordination and response between private sectors (industry, 

other potentially responsible parties and citizens) and public sectors (local, state, and federal 

governments). The primary objective of the plan is to develop communication capabilities and 

encourage coordination of independent response resources acting within local jurisdictions. The plan 

aids understanding of regional capabilities and resources and provides a background for planning 

coordination with state and local officials. Appendices I and J present the Acronyms and Definitions, 

respectively. 

Secondary objectives of the Plan include the development of notification systems between response 

organizations in the different countries and developing international mutual aid agreements. The 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 9 
secondary objectives are being addressed through ongoing cooperative efforts between local 

planners in San Luis, Arizona, and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, the Arizona Department of 

Environmental Quality (ADEQ), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA 

Region IX), Mexican Civil Protection (Protección Civil), and PROFEPA (Mexico’s Federal 

Attorney General for Environmental Protection). 

A directory of essential planning and response contacts is located in Appendix A. 

1.1 San Luis, Arizona, - San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora Plan Area 

This plan covers the U.S.-Mexico Sister City pair of San Luis, Arizona, and San Luis Río Colorado, 

Sonora (Map 3). The proximity of these two communities on the international border allows for 

constant exchange of American and Mexican culture. 

San Luis is located in southwestern Arizona, Yuma County, between 32°30' N latitude and 114°43' 

W longitude. A map of San Luis, Arizona is provided in Map 4. San Luis Río Colorado is located 

just south of San Luis in the northeastern region of the state of Sonora, Mexico between 32°28' N 

latitude and 114°46' W longitude. A map of San Luis Río Colorado is provided in Map 5. By 

highway, the Sister Cities are approximately 211 miles (339 km) southwest of Phoenix, Arizona and 

74 miles (120 km) northwest of Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. 

1.1.1 Physical Environment 

The Cities of San Luis and San Luis Río Colorado are 140 and 137 feet (43 and 42 meters) above 

sea level, respectively. There is generally little topographic relief throughout the area; however, 

some terraced areas and numerous small hills do exist. A large percentage of the land-use in the area 

is agricultural. Land that is not irrigated is part of the Sonoran Desert, the hottest desert in North 

America. The Sonoran Desert, also known as the Gila Desert, covers approximately 120,000 square 

miles (310,800 km2

). 

The climate is extremely arid. The average monthly temperature is about 75°F (23.9°C) with a daily 

minimum of 54.7°F (12.6°C) and a daily maximum of 87.5°F (31.4°C). From June through 

September, average daily high temperatures exceed 100°F (37.8°C) and average daily low 

temperatures can range from the mid-60s (15.6°C) to the mid-70s (21.1°C). Temperatures of over 

120°F (48.9°C) have been recorded. From December through February, temperatures (°F) fluctuate 

between the upper 30s to the upper 60s (3° to 19°C). 

The Colorado River is the major river in the plan area. It runs from north to south about 3 miles (1.6 

km) west of San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora. The Colorado River forms the 

political border between the states of Arizona and California in the United States, and the states of 

Sonora and Baja California in Mexico. The river drains into the Gulf of California approximately 

25 miles (40 km) south of San Luis Río Colorado. The river runs for 1,400 miles (2,253 km) from 

beginning to end and serves as a major source of water for the western United States and Mexico. 

Rainfall averages about 3 inches (7.62 cm) per year in the plan area. In years when there is heavy 

rainfall, flooding may occur. In late February and March of 1993, a series of storms in middle and 

western Arizona brought heavy flooding. Rainfall which occurred withing the Gila River Basin 

caused heavy flooding in the lower Gila River Valley, including the Yuma County area. This 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

10 February 25, 2000 
flooding destroyed, or forced an early harvest of, many of the winter crops and also caused many 

bridge closures. The flooding was predominantly in agricultural and flood plain areas. 

Some identified hazardous materials facilities are located on the flood plains of the Colorado and 

Gila Rivers and their tributaries. Additionally, the southwestern portion of Yuma County is located 

in a high risk earthquake area. Any natural disaster increases the potential for an accidental release 

of hazardous materials. 

Snow is rare within the plan area; however, amounts of less than two inches have been recorded in 

a single year, according to the Yuma Economic Development Corporation (YEDC). 

Table 1 shows monthly temperatures (daily maximums and minimums) and precipitation for the plan 

area. 

Table 1 

WEATHER 

San Luis, Arizona / San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Average Temperature 

Month Daily Maximum Daily Minimum Average Total 

(°F/°C) (°F/°C) Precipitation (inches/millimeters) 

January 67.9 / 19.9 38.1 / 3.4 0.39 / 9.91 

February 73. 1/ 22.8 40.7 / 4.8 0.29 / 7.37 

March 78.1 / 25.6 44.7 / 7.1 0.24 / 6.10 

April 85.8 / 29.9 50.7 / 10.4 0.10 / 2.54 

May 93.6 / 34.2 57.4 / 14.1 0.07 / 1.78 

June 101.0 / 38.3 64.3 / 17.9 0.02 / .508 

July 106.3 / 41.3 75.2 / 24 0.18 / 4.57 

August 105.0 / 40.6 75.4 / 24.1 0.41 / 10.41 

September 101.5 / 38.6 68.1 / 20.1 0.24 / 6.10 

October 90.0 / 32.2 56.5 / 13.6 0.30 / 7.62 

November 77.6 / 25.3 45.5 / 7.5 0.22 / 5.59 

December 69.1 / 20.6 39.4 / 4.1 0.37 / 9.40 

Year 87.5 / 30.8 54.7 / 12.6 2.77 / 70.36 

Source Information: Yuma Citrus Reporting Station 

1.1.2 Population 

Based on 1998 estimates from the U.S. and Mexican Census Bureaus, the cumulative population of 

the plan area is 211,090, with 200,000 persons residing in San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora and 

11,090 in San Luis, Arizona. Yuma County, which includes the cities of Yuma, San Luis, Somerton, 

and Welton, has a total population of 135,200. 

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An increase of industrial activity in the plan area has resulted in a high rate of population growth. 

Between 1990 and 1998, the San Luis/San Luis Río Colorado area grew by 46%, from 114,742 to 

211,090 inhabitants. 

Table 2
 

POPULATION
 

1990 1995 1998 

San Luis 4,212 8,026 11,090 

San Luis Río Colorado 110,530 132,782 200,000 

Yuma County 106,895 132,869 135,200 

Source Information: Arizona Department of Economic Security and U.S. Census Bureau 

1.1.3 Economy 

Retail trade, agriculture and manufacturing form a large portion of the local economy. San Luis, 

Arizona is an important site for labor-intensive manufacturing and assembly plants. A 26-acre Light 

Industrial Complex has been developed in San Luis, Arizona, near the port of entry. Offsite 

improvements include water, sewer, electricity, phone lines and paved streets. Most of the park has 

been leased, and expansion of the industrial park is underway. A new 40-acre commercial area is 

currently under construction in north San Luis along Highway 95. 

San Luis is a participant in the Arizona Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI) program. 

REDI is designed to build capacity for economic growth by stimulating broad participation in the 

local economic development organization, providing training, and coordinating resources to enable 

more rapid progress toward locally-determined economic development goals. 

Agriculture has been the main economic activity for the municipality of San Luis Río Colorado. 

Some 27 percent of the economically active population work in this sector, with more than 137,500 

acres dedicated to farming. Production includes 250,000 acres of wheat, 22,500 acres of cotton, 

1,750 acres of alfalfa, and 12,500 acres of chives and other horticultural crops, among which 

broccoli has become the second most important. To a lesser extent, corn, sorghum and sesame seeds 

are also grown in the area. Cotton and chives are the products in greatest demand; these are 

exported to the United States, Europe and Asia. Each year, some 65,000 bales of cotton and more 

than 3.5 million boxes of chives are exported through the port of entry to the United States. 

The city’s International Industrial Park, 8,100 acres encompassing industrial, residential and 

commercial development, is home to 27 maquiladora factories, which generate more than 11,000 

jobs. One section of the park has already been urbanized, and new businesses have begun to arrive. 

1.1.4 Infrastructure 

The city of San Luis, Arizona, has a modern wastewater treatment plant using the Sequencing Batch 

Reactor (SBR) process located on the western edge of the city, near the international border. It has 

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12 February 25, 2000 
an average daily design flow of 750,000 gallons (2,839 m3

) per day (peak design flow of 1.1 million 

gallons (4,164 m3

) per day) and is currently operating at 650,000 gallons (2,461 m3) per day. 

Because of increased population growth and industrial activity in the city, there are plans to 

construct a new treatment plant within the next five years to double capacity and meet predicted 

demands. Treated water is discharged into the bypass channel of the Wellton Canal, which flows 

eventually to the Santa Clara wetlands at the Gulf of California. 

The city of San Luis Río Colorado does not treat wastewater. Effluent is discharged into the local 

canal system, which eventually flows into the Colorado River. 

A landfill is located 15 miles (24 km) north of San Luis, Arizona on Highway 95. This serves as 

the city’s primary disposal location. This landfill is near capacity and will close in November, 1999, 

after which waste will be directed to a landfill near Wellton, approximately one hour (52 mi/84.5 

km) north of San Luis. The city of San Luis Río Colorado disposes waste at an above-ground site 

located at the southern limits of the city. 

Private vehicles are the main form of transportation in San Luis, Arizona. Two companies provide 

shuttle service to Yuma, where the nearest commercial airport is located. Bus service connects San 

Luis Río Colorado to Mexicali and Hermosillo, with connections to other destinations throughout 

Mexico. Local public transportation is also available in the form of buses and small collective vans. 

There is an airfield located in San Luis Río Colorado. It is operated by the Mexican Army and is 

not used regularly for commercial flights. 

1.1.5 Cultural Significance 

The city of San Luis, Arizona was established in 1930 with the opening of the U.S. Port of Entry. 

Since incorporation in 1979, it has experienced tremendous population and commercial growth, 

making it one of the fastest growing communities of Yuma County. San Luis is uniquely located 

at the U.S.-Mexico border and is complemented by a wide variety of shopping, food, entertainment 

and culture with Spanish traditions unique to the Southwest. Local leadership and a supportive 

community are committed to providing quality education, from pre-school through post secondary 

levels. 

San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora dates to 1916, when an expedition comprised of civilians and 

soldiers, led by Captain Carlos G. Calles, established the first settlement on the banks of the 

Colorado River, in a region inhabited by native peoples of the Papago, Cocopah and Yuma Tribes. 

Second in size only to Nogales among the Arizona/Sonora border cities, San Luis Río Colorado 

became a city in 1958 and in recent years has experienced tremendous population and commercial 

growth due to the maquiladora industry. The city’s population tops 119,960 and the local economy 

is strong and diversified. 

1.2 Authority 

This plan was developed in accordance with the following federal statutes and agreements for both 

countries. 

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1.2.1 Statutes 

“Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) of 1980,” 

42 U.S.C. §§ 9601 et seq. 

“Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986" (Title III of 

Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986) 42 U.S.C. §§ 11001 et seq. 

1.2.2 Regulations 

40 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 300, “National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution 

Contingency Plan” (1999). 

29 Code of Federal Regulations, Part 1910.120, “Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency 

Response” (1999). 

1.2.3 Binational Agreements 

Agreement Between the United States of America and the United Mexican States on Cooperation 

for the Protection and Improvement of the Environment in the Border Area (“La Paz Agreement”) 

(August 14, 1983). 

Annex II to the Agreement (July 18, 1985) is the foundation for the development of the Joint 

Contingency Plan. 

1.3 Other Applicable Contingency Plans 

Sections of the agreements and plans described below were adapted for use in various components 

of this plan. 

1.3.1 Binational Contingency Plans 

The United States-Mexico Joint Contingency Plan (JCP) for Preparedness for and Response to 

Environmental Emergencies Caused by Releases, Spills, Fires or Explosions of Hazardous 

Substances in the Inland Border Area (June 4, 1999). 

Joint United States of America - United Mexican States Contingency Plan for Accidental Releases 

of Hazardous Substances along the Border (1988). 

The Joint Response Team (JRT) is an entity authorized by Annex II of the La Paz Agreement to 

undertake emergency actions to respond to accidental oil and hazardous materials spills along the 

100-kilometer wide area on either side of the U.S.-Mexico border, and to coordinate international 

hazardous materials substance preparedness and response activities in this area. The JRT developed 

the JCP to respond to spills requiring international coordination between the United States and 

Mexico. 

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1.3.2 United States Contingency Plans 

1.3.2.1 Local and Regional Plans and Mutual Aid Agreements 

Yuma County, Arizona Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan (1991). The Yuma County 

Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Plan was developed by the Local Emergency Planning 

Committee (LEPC) in compliance with SARA Title III. Its purpose is to provide all elected officials 

and county departments with a response mechanism for hazardous materials incidents, and to inform 

the public on matters involving hazardous materials in Yuma County. It contains information on 

direction and control for hazardous materials emergencies, emergency assistance, transportation 

routes, evacuation, shelters, training, medical facility decontamination procedures, a listing of 

facilities providing information on chemical hazards pursuant to Sections 302, 303, 304, 311, 312, 

313, and 322 of SARA, and a vulnerability analysis of the area. 

Yuma County Emergency Operations Plan (1994). The Yuma County Emergency Operations Plan 

is the umbrella plan for protecting the health, safety, and property of the public in the unincorporated 

areas of Yuma County from all non-nuclear hazards, and serves as a guide for emergency planning 

in each incorporated jurisdiction. It covers mitigation preparedness, response and recovery 

procedures. It contains a Hazardous Materials Annex. 

Local Jurisdictions Emergency Operations Plan. The cities of Yuma, Wellton, Somerton, and San 

Luis have individual plans outlining emergency response procedures. Within these plans are 

annexes addressing local response to hazardous materials incidents. The San Luis Emergency 

Operations Plan was developed in 1982. A revision is currently underway. 

Yuma County Emergency Management, Master Mutual Aid Agreement Between Subdivisions and 

Tribes of Yuma County (July, 1997). 

Mutual Aid Agreement for Fire and Rescue Services of Extraordinary Emergency Service between 

the City of San Luis and the City of Yuma (December 14, 1993). 

Agreement on Support for a Joint Contingency Plan Between the Cities of San Luis Río Colorado, 

Sonora, Yuma, Somerton, and San Luis, Arizona (November 12, 1994). 

1.3.2.2 State of Arizona Plans 

The State of Arizona Emergency Response and Recovery Plan (February 1998) addresses the 

consequences of any emergency or disaster where there is a need for state response and recovery 

assistance. The plan describes the methods that the state will use to assist local jurisdictions, 

mobilize resources and conduct cost recovery activities. 

The State of Arizona Hazardous Materials Response and Recovery Plan is a component of the above 

plan. It provides emergency management for a state response to a hazardous materials incident. The 

plan was developed by the Arizona Division of Emergency Management and the Arizona 

Emergency Response Commission and gives an overview of the roles and responsibilities of various 

state agencies. 

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1.3.2.3 Federal Plans 

National Contingency Plan (1990). The National Response Team (NRT) developed the National 

Contingency Plan (NCP) for responding to releases or spills involving oil or hazardous materials 

throughout the United States. 

U.S. EPA Region IX - Mainland Regional Contingency Plan (1988). The U.S. Environmental 

Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) Region IX Regional Response Team (RRT) has developed a 

Contingency Plan which outlines procedures in the event of a release or spill occurring in their 

region. U.S. EPA Region IX Mainland Plan includes the States of Arizona, California, and Nevada. 

Colorado River Area Contingency Plan (1993). U.S. EPA Region IX developed the Colorado River 

Area Contingency Plan because of the importance of the river as a major interstate resource. The 

Plan is of specific interest because parts of Arizona lie within its jurisdiction. 

Memorandum of Understanding Between the U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Reclamation, 

Yuma Area Office, and U.S. Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Field 

Office (June 26, 1998). 

1.3.3 Mexico Contingency Plans 

1.3.3.1 Local and Regional Plans and Mutual Aid Agreements 

The Emergency Coordination Plan of the San Luis Río Colorado Civil Protection Unit is modeled 

after similar state and federal plans put in place by Civil Protection. It establishes a system of eight 

committees to address specific areas of concern in the event of an emergency. 

The municipality of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora has established a plan that employs wide 

participation by many sectors of society to respond to emergencies in the city or any other area of 

the municipality. Two separate volunteer fire brigades, with two strategically-located fire stations 

each, operate in the city itself, independent of the Police and Municipal Transit authorities. An 

additional station at the population center of Luis B. Sanchez covers the majority of the San Luis 

Valley. For ambulance service, the Red Cross has four 24-hour bases in the municipality. Its 

principal base covers the city and enjoys the assistance of five additional organizations providing 

the same type of service. The other Red Cross bases in the municipality are located in Luis B. 

Sanchez, 40 km south, Mesa Rica, 50 km south, and Golfo de Santa Clara, 110 km south of the city. 

All of the institutions have agreements in place that cover jurisdiction in the event of an incident. 

1.3.3.2 State of Sonora Plans 

State of Sonora Civil Protection Plan (1998). This plan describes protocols for Civil Protection in 

the event of a natural disaster. Specific guidelines and procedures are established for hurricanes, 

fires, droughts, and frosts. 

The State of Sonora, Mexico Catalogue of Hazards (1992) has been compiled by the State of Sonora 

and the State Unit of Civil Protection. 

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1.3.3.3 Federal Plans 

Technical Guide for Developing Municipal Contingency Plans (Protección Civil) (1993). This 

guidebook was published by the General Directorate of Civil Protection of the Mexican Federal 

Government in 1993. It provides guidelines for implementing local emergency plans in Mexico, in 

response to natural or man-made disasters. These plans are based on the identification and 

evaluation of local hazards, availability of human and material resources, and preparation and 

capabilities of the local community. Hazards are classified as: geological, hydrological/ 

meteorological, chemical, sanitary, or socio-organizational. Contingency plans are not yet 

mandatory by law in Mexico; however, Civil Protection strongly recommends each state and 

municipality have one. 

National Contingency Plan (Protección Civil). This Plan was developed by the General Directorate 

of Civil Protection of the Mexican Federal Government. It follows a model similar to that of Civil 

Protection plans at the state and local levels. This is Mexico’s primary plan in the event of a 

disaster. 

National System for Civil Protection Plan (1986). The Mexican Federal Government (Secretaria 

de Gobernación) developed the National System for Civil Protection for responding to all disasters 

including releases or spills involving oil or hazardous material throughout Mexico. The current plan 

outlines Civil Protection operations from 1995-2000. 

Plan DN III-E: Civilian Population Assistance (1995). This plan, established by the Mexican 

Secretariat of National Defense, outlines the role of the Mexican Army and Air Force in the event 

of a catastrophic incident. 

Operations Manual for CONASUPO and Affiliates During Disasters. CONASUPO is a network of 

supermarkets in Mexico. This manual governs the procedures by which these markets will 

contribute food and other items in the event of a disaster. 

Manual of Emergency Attention for Hydroecological Emergencies Related to Continental National 

Waters. Civil Protection would implement this plan in the event of a flood, hurricane or other severe 

storm. 

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2.0 HAZARDS ANALYSIS AND RISK REDUCTION 

Critical to emergency response and preparedness is an analysis of the hazards posed in the plan area 

and measures to reduce the risks from these hazards. This section identifies hazards and analyzes 

vulnerable human and environmental resources and associated risks. This section also addresses the 

jurisdictions’ recommendations and commitment to reduce the risks from these hazards. 

2.1 Fixed Facilities Using or Handling Hazardous Materials 

An initial assessment (profile) of fixed facility hazards is presented here. The profile is useful as 

a general overview of facilities and for the determination of additional data collection needs. 

Appendices B and C present a list of industrial facilities in the plan area. 

2.1.1 San Luis, Arizona 

In the United States, under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA), 

most facilities that use large and/or toxic quantities of hazardous materials are required to file 

reports that detail their hazardous materials use. These facilities are known as “Tier II facilities.” 

EPCRA requires those facilities which have on-site, at any one time, 10,000 pounds or more of a 

“Hazardous Chemical” (as defined by OSHA Hazard Communication Regulations), or any amount 

over a “threshold” level of an “Extremely Hazardous Substance” (EHS) to file a Tier II report. 

OSHA defines a “Hazardous Chemical” as any chemical which is either a health hazard or a 

physical hazard. Material Safety Data Sheets must be prepared for such chemicals. Hazardous 

Chemicals or EHSs present in quantities that do not exceed the reporting threshold may be required 

to be reported when it is felt that the information may be of use in emergency response situations. 

Each of the following agencies need to receive copies of Tier II reports: 

• The State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) 

• The Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) 

• The local fire department 

A total of four facilities have submitted Tier II reports to the San Luis Fire Department. Of those 

facilities, only the San Luis Wastewater Treatment Plant is known to handle an EHS, chlorine. 

Chlorine is used during the disinfection process of wastewater treatment to kill bacteria and other 

enteric viruses. The chemicals handled by the other reported facilities include: gasoline fuel, diesel 

fuel, carbon dioxide, and insulating oil. To ensure that all San Luis facilities that should be 

submitting Tier II reports are doing so, a compliance assurance program is necessary. 

2.1.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Maquiladoras are the main industrial operation in San Luis Río Colorado. A maquiladora is a 

Mexican assembly or manufacturing operation that can be subject to up to 100% non-Mexican 

ownership. Maquiladoras utilize competitively priced Mexican labor in assembly, processing and/or 

other manufacturing operations. Most component parts are temporarily imported from the United 

States or other countries. Mexican law also allows these operations to bring in most capital, 

equipment and machinery from abroad. Maquiladora operations are generally labor-intensive cost 

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centers, with most productions geared for export from Mexico. Finally, maquiladoras may be 

entirely foreign (U.S.) managed and 100% U.S. owned, unlike other multi-nationals operating in 

Mexico. 

The Mexican government created the Maquiladora Program in 1966 to generate employment, to 

augment the Mexican trade balance and to promote technology transfer. One million Mexican 

workers are employed in over 2,500 maquilas, making the maquila industry the number two source 

of jobs in all of Mexico. Job growth in the maquila sector has averaged 12.1% annually over the 

last ten years. 

Approximately 29 maquiladoras and other industrial facilities currently operate in San Luis Río 

Colorado, Sonora (See Appendix C). 

Examining product processes helps to identify many of the hazardous materials used, stored, or 

handled in San Luis Río Colorado. The twenty-nine industrial facilities are sorted into several 

different categories. Facilities included within the same category may have different hazardous 

materials inventories. Many of these facilities only perform product assembly, or provide other 

services which do not require the use of hazardous materials. 

Twelve of the facilities (41 percent) assemble or manufacture clothing or other textile products. 

Chemicals typically used in the manufacture and finishing of textiles include formaldehyde, metallic 

salts (such as zinc nitrate and magnesium chloride), glyoxal, organometallic compounds, zinc acetate 

with peroxide, and chlorine. 

Six of the facilities (21 percent) identified in San Luis Río Colorado manufacture or assemble 

electronic and electric appliances or materials and supplies used in electronic equipment of electric 

appliances. In the production of electronic devices and supplies, acids which are commonly used 

as etchants include hydrochloric, sulfuric, glacial acetic, nitric and hydrofluoric. Use of other 

solvents and resins is also common. 

Two of the facilities (7 percent) process food and agricultural products. Food and agricultural 

industries use preservatives or, in some cases, low quantities of chlorine, ammonia and acids. For 

San Luis Río Colorado, food and agricultural products include cotton, cotton products, ground 

wheat, pasteurized milk and ice. Large quantities of anhydrous ammonia are used in refrigeration 

systems, necessary for the storage of perishable products, or in the manufacture of ice. 

Three facilities (10 percent) manufacture brakes or other auto parts. They are included in the 

facilities which produce transportation equipment and supplies. 

Six facilities (21 percent) manufacture products which do not easily fit into any category. Products 

included in this general category for San Luis Río Colorado are furniture, gambling equipment, and 

toys. 

Thirteen of the San Luis Río Colorado industrial facilities are located it its only industrial park, the 

Parque Industrial de San Luis Río Colorado. The other facilities are located outside of this industrial 

park. 

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By law, hazardous wastes generated by U.S.-owned maquiladora operations must be returned to the 

United States for proper disposal. Data from INE-SEMARNAP (the Mexican National Institute of 

Ecology and the Mexican Secretariat of Environment, Natural Resources and Fisheries) indicate that 

maquiladoras in San Luis Río Colorado return three times more hazardous waste to the United States 

than do those in Nogales, making the San Luis port of entry the most active in terms of hazardous 

waste transport in the Arizona-Sonora border region. In 1998, 1,526,968 kilograms and 1,259,200 

liters of hazardous waste passed through the San Luis port of entry. Twelve of 33 facilities (36%) 

operating at the time the report was prepared exported waste to the United States. 

2.2 Transportation Systems 

Representative chemical transportation data are critical to the identification and analysis of a 

potential hazardous materials emergency. This section provides an overview of hazardous materials 

traffic in the plan area, and identifies additional data that should be collected and analyzed to create 

a comprehensive transportation hazards identification. 

2.2.1 San Luis, Arizona 

2.2.1.1 Roads 

The major highway through San Luis, Arizona is Highway 95 (Main Street). Its major intersection is 

at Juan Sanchez Boulevard. Other roadways are shown in Map . Highway 95 is currently being 

expanded from two to four lanes for approximately two miles as it enters San Luis. 

The state of Arizona had adopted, as state law, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Standards as 

recorded in 49 CFR part 397.9, for routing hazardous materials. The law states that vehicles 

transporting hazardous materials must use preferred routes that avoid tunnels, bridges and areas of 

dense population. 

Highway 95 is the major transportation route in the San Luis area. It runs from the international 

border to Yuma, where it connects with Interstate 8, one of the major transportation corridors 

connecting Southern California to the southeastern U.S. Significant truck traffic passes through San 

Luis via Highway 95 to and from the Port of Entry. Truck traffic is an important mode of 

transportation for hazardous materials, and data from the U.S. Customs Service suggests that 

significant amounts of hazardous materials cross the border at San Luis. The potential for a 

vehicular accident involving hazardous materials should not be overlooked. 

2.2.1.2 Railroads 

On the U.S. side, the nearest railroad to San Luis runs through Yuma. It does not pose a major threat 

to the plan area. 

2.2.1.3 Other Means of Transport 

A series of canals run through the San Luis area to provide water to agricultural operations. The 

East Main Canal, the West Main Canal, and the Yuma Valley Main Drain pass through the City of 

San Luis. The Yuma Valley Main Drain also crosses the international border. These canals are not 

used as a mode of transport, but a hazardous materials release affecting the canals could have 

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international implications. The canals eventually drain into the Santa Clara wetlands and the 

Colorado River. 

2.2.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

2.2.2.1 Roads 

Avenida Obregón is the main transport route east to west in San Luis Río Colorado. It runs from the 

industrial park in the eastern part of the city to the Port of Entry in the west. Most truck traffic from the 

border passes along Avenida Obregón. Avenida Carlos G. Calles runs along the border and handles the 

majority of traffic headed to the United States. Calzada Constitución and Calzada Monterrey are the 

main routes out of town in the southwest section of the city, heading through the San Luis Valley to the 

Gulf of Santa Clara. 

2.2.2.2 Railroads 

A major rail line runs through the municipality of San Luis Río Colorado, approximately 25 miles (40 

km) south of the city through the population centers of Luis B. Sánchez, Riíto, and Mesa Rica. The line 

serves as the main rail transport route from Mexicali to Hermosillo. Data are not available on amounts 

and frequency of hazardous materials transported via this rail line. 

2.2.2.3 Other Means of Transport 

There is an airfield located in San Luis Río Colorado operated by the Mexican Army, but it is not 

used regularly for commercial or cargo traffic. A series of canals run along the western edge of the 

city, but these, like the Colorado River, are not used to transport goods or people. 

2.3 Ports of Entry 

From west to east, there are six ports of entry along the Arizona-Sonora border: 

San Luis, Arizona/San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora; 

Lukeville, Arizona/Sonoyta, Sonora; 

Sasabe, Arizona/Sasabe, Sonora; 

Nogales, Arizona/Nogales, Sonora (East and West Gate); 

Naco, Arizona/Naco, Sonora; and 

Douglas, Arizona/Agua Prieta, Sonora. 

Nogales accounts for more than two-thirds (67.7 percent) of all commercial traffic entering Arizona 

from Mexico. The San Luis port of entry accounts for 15 percent of all commercial traffic and 29 

percent of all non-commercial traffic entering Arizona from Mexico. Table 3 shows historical and 

projected commercial traffic volumes for the Arizona ports of entry. Sixty-three percent of all 

pedestrians entering from Sonora use the Nogales port, followed by San Luis (29 percent of 

incoming pedestrians). 

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Four out of the six border ports of entry have facilities for commercial inspection (primary and 

secondary). San Luis, Arizona has one primary and fourteen secondary inspection points (spaces) 

for an average of 95 commercial vehicles entering daily from Mexico; San Luis Río Colorado, 

Sonora has one primary and thirty secondary inspection points. As noted earlier, data from INESEMARNAP indicates that more hazardous waste passes through the San Luis port of entry that at 

any other port of entry along the Arizona-Sonora border. 

There is significant truck traffic in San Luis due to the port of entry. Major truck routes are 

Highway 95, D Street and First Street to the Port of Entry. This is the only border crossing in Yuma 

County. 

Table 3 

Arizona border ports of entry: 

Projected commercial traffic by 2000 

Border Port of Entry 1995 1997 2000 Projected % Share 2000 

Douglas 42,272 51,339 64,641 14.0 

Lukeville 2,493 2,919 3,557 0.8 

Naco 11,724 14,379 18,360 4.0 

Nogales 202,795 232,780 277,758 60.2 

Sasabe 1,667 1,760 1,889 0.4 

San Luis 57,400 72,413 94,932 20.6 

Total 318,351 375,589 461,147 100.0 

Source: Arizona Trade Corridor Study 

2.4 Sensitive Populations and Vulnerable Areas 

As a part of a hazard analysis, the identification of sensitive populations and vulnerable areas is 

necessary. Available information is presented here. 

2.4.1 San Luis, Arizona 

2.4.1.1 Sensitive Populations 

There are four schools located in San Luis, Arizona. The San Luis Preschool serves 76 children in two 

daily shifts. Rio Colorado Elementary serves 683 students, Arizona Desert Elementary serves 835 

students, and San Luis Middle School serves 705 students. Most schools operate from approximately 

8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additionally, Arizona Western College operates a 

campus in San Luis that serves 1822 students. 

All schools in San Luis are located along Highway 95, the major transportation corridor to and from 

the border. A senior center and clinic are also located along Highway 95, near the San Luis 

Community Center at Juan Sanchez Boulevard. A large number of mobile home parks are also 

located in San Luis. Mobile home residents may be more vulnerable to environmental releases that 

those who live in more traditional dwellings. 

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2.4.1.2 Population Distribution 

The industrial park in San Luis, Arizona is located just to the east of the port of entry. Traffic to or 

from the industrial park to the border crossing does not pass through areas of dense population. 

However, there are population centers located to the north and northeast of the industrial park. 

Because the dominant winds of the area blow south, it is likely that an airborne release from a 

facility in the industrial park would disperse southward into Mexico. The area of San Luis Río 

Colorado, Sonora located south of the industrial park is largely residential and commercial. 

The area just north of the port of entry along Main Street (Highway 95) in San Luis, Arizona is 

commercial. Highway 95 runs north from the port of entry to Yuma, passing several schools, a 

senior center, and the local health clinic. Vehicles heading from the industrial park or from Mexico 

to Yuma pass these areas of sensitive populations. North of the schools along Highway 95 is 

another residential area. 

2.4.1.3 Sensitive Natural Resource Areas 

There are several National Wildlife Refuges in the Yuma County area: Cabeza Prieta, Imperial, and 

Kofa. Additional wildlife areas include the Mittry Lake Wildlife Area and Betty’s Kitchen Wildlife 

Interpretive Area. 

Many rare and endangered bird species migrate through the county along the western flyway. These 

species depend upon the wooded parks, irrigation canals, sloughs, ponds, irrigated croplands, and 

the Colorado River Valley habitats for survival. 

Water bodies which provide essential habitat for flora and fauna include the Morelos Reservoir, 

Imperial Reservoir, Mittry Lake, Martinez Lake, and the Colorado River. These water bodies are 

assumed to be critical because the area only receives three inches of rain annually. 

Among the species which are dependent upon the water quality of the Colorado River and its 

tributaries are estuarine finfish and shellfish. These species use the mouth of the Colorado River 

as a nursery. They are extremely sensitive to water conditions, and therefore, hazardous substances. 

Fourteen species of animals found in Yuma County area listed by the federal government as 

endangered, and one as threatened. Forty-three species of plants and animals are watch-listed. 

Additional species are listed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. 

2.4.2 San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

2.4.2.1 Sensitive Populations 

The education system in the city of San Luis Río Colorado provides schooling to 20,657 students in 79 

institutions, from preschool to college. The city’s 1,309 teachers staff 38 preschool, 33 primary schools, 

10 middle schools, six preparatory schools and two universities. 

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24 February 25, 2000 
Eight hospitals and clinics are located with the city of San Luis Río Colorado. They are clustered 

around the northwestern corner of the city, near several maquiladoras but away from the industrial 

park. 

2.4.2.2 Population Distribution 

Average population density in San Luis Río Colorado is 30 persons per square kilometer with an 

annual growth rate of 4.34%. Because the main industrial park in San Luis Río Colorado is located 

on the eastern edge of the city, there are fewer chances that a serious accident will affect large 

numbers of people. Additionally, the dominant winds in the area blow from the north, away from 

populated areas. The “10 de Abril” neighborhood is the closest population center to the industrial 

park. This appears to be an area of high population density. 

One preschool is located very close to the industrial park. Several other schools are found along or 

near major transportation routes in the city. Additionally, because many of the maquiladoras in San 

Luis Río Colorado are located outside of the industrial park, risks to the population are spread 

throughout the city. One preparatory school and one university are located within the industrial park 

itself. 

2.4.2.3 Sensitive Natural Resource Areas 

Just 68 miles (109 km) southwest of San Luis Río Colorado lies the beachfront town of El Golfo de 

Santa Clara. The main attraction is the town’s harmonious combination of desert and sea, joined 

by a broad stretch of fine-sand beach that runs for some 30 miles (48 km). The town is located in 

an extensive area of more than 2,335,000 acres (944,923 ha) which constitute the Reserve of the 

Upper Gulf of California and the Delta of the Colorado River, one of the richest ecosystems in the 

world. Some 907 species of marine animals of biological and commercial interest have been 

recorded. A release or spill of a hazardous material into the Colorado River could drastically affect 

this marine life since the River flows through El Golfo de Santa Clara with a final destination of the 

Gulf of California. 

Two of Mexico’s principal ecological reserves can be found in the desert region of Sonora. With 

a size of over 1,786,390 acres (722,913 ha), the Reserve of El Pinacate and the Gran Desierto de 

Altar is made up of volcanic craters, regions of dunes, ash obliques and outcroppings of solidified 

lava, as well as a variety of flora and fauna typical of the desert. Located in the same region is the 

Biosphere Reserve of the High Gulf of California and the River Delta of the Colorado River. 

Covering an area of over 2,335,000 acres, the Biosphere Reserve encompasses various communities 

and natural resources found in the states of Sonora and Baja California. 

2.5 Drinking Water Supplies and Wastewater Treatment 

Water in San Luis, Arizona comes from seven wells located throughout the city and surrounding 

areas. Wastewater is treated at a modern facility located in the western part of town near the 

international border. It has an average daily design flow of 750,000 gallons per day and is currently 

operating at 650,000 gallons per day, or 87% of capacity. Because of increased population growth 

and industrial activity in the city, there are plans to construct a new treatment plant within the next 

five years to double capacity and meet predicted demands. Treated water is discharged into the 

bypass channel of the Wellton Canal system. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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February 25, 2000 25 
Water in San Luis Río Colorado comes from approximately forty wells located throughout the 

municipality. The Colorado River and underground aquifers provide an annual water supply of 

some 150 million cubic meters, predicted to last for at least the next 50 years. Piped water reaches 

nearly all residents of the city. At the present time, there is no wastewater treatment facility, and 

wastewater is discharged into the Colorado River. 

2.6 Risk Reduction Opportunities and Recommendations 

Reducing risk to prevent a hazardous materials incident is a proactive approach to emergency 

planning. The Binational Emergency Planning Committee (BEPC) will look at a variety of 

mechanisms to reduce hazardous materials risks in the plan area. These include: 

• Planning; 

• Identification and assessment of available resources; 

• Public and industry education and outreach; 

• Procurement and integration of equipment; 

• Building and fire codes; 

• Pollution prevention; 

• Traffic controls; 

• Hazard Identification and risk analysis; 

• Training; 

• Exercises and drills; 

• Emergency response preparedness; and 

• Compliance assurance/assistance. 

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26 February 25, 2000 
3.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE OPERATIONS
 

The adverse consequences of a chemical accident on the health, safety and welfare of the 

communities of San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora may be reduced through 

timely and effective emergency response. This plan provides an integrated and coordinated joint 

binational response effort to supplement the local emergency response plans following the release 

of hazardous materials in the geographical area covered under this plan. Where portions of this 

section designate certain individuals to perform actions, this shall also include their designated 

representatives if appropriate. 

3.1 Notification 

Any release or substantial threat of a release of a hazardous material affecting or likely to affect 

another party shall be reported to that party without delay. The emergency notification list is found 

on page 5. 

3.2 Private Response Mechanisms 

Owners or operators of fixed facilities and transportation facilities, including truck lines, rail lines 

and pipelines, must comply with all local, state, and federal hazardous material planning and 

reporting requirements. 

3.3 Local Response 

The organizational structure for emergency response in San Luis Río Colorado dictates that 

command responsibilities be held by the Director of Civil Protection, though he may be assisted by 

the Commander of one of the two volunteer fire brigades in the city. 

3.3.1 City of San Luis, Arizona Mutual Aid Request 

In San Luis, Arizona, the City of San Luis, Arizona Fire Department Fire Chief will assume the lead 

role as Incident Commander (IC). If the incident is beyond the control and/or capabilities of the San 

Luis, Arizona Fire Department, or the incident might impact the border with Mexico, the Incident 

Commander will request activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This request will 

initiate a binational notification response for mutual aid from San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora using 

a predetermined code to be shared only by the San Luis, Arizona Fire Chief and the Director of Civil 

Protection in San Luis Río Colorado. 

Upon receipt of this request, the Director of Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora may 

implement the mutual aid request by providing necessary action, information and/or assistance 

resources if possible. The City of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora may respond with the appropriate 

resources to aid in the request. These resources will be determined by a Joint Command established 

between the San Luis, Arizona Fire Chief and the Director of Civil Protection in San Luis Río 

Colorado. The responding resources will report to the Incident Commander and work under the 

Incident Commander's direction. The Incident Commander is also responsible for ensuring that 

response personnel from San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora are adequately utilized in an effective and 

safe manner by coordinating with the senior on scene response official from each responding 

agency. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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February 25, 2000 27 
If the incident is beyond the capabilities of both cities, the Fire Chief may contact Yuma county and 

the State of Arizona to request assistance and/or initiate federal and/or Joint Response Team 

response. 

3.3.2 City of San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora Mutual Aid Request 

In San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, the Director of Civil Protection will assume the lead role as 

Incident Commander (IC). If the Incident Commander feels that the incident will exhaust the 

resources available, or that the incident might impact the border, a request for binational response 

will be initiated to the San Luis, Arizona Fire Chief using the predetermined code. As with the San 

Luis, Arizona response, the binational response will involve requesting mutual aid from San Luis, 

Arizona. Both cities will notify their chains of command. 

Upon receipt of this request, the San Luis, Arizona Fire Chief may implement the mutual aid request 

by providing necessary action, information and/or assistance resources if possible. The City of San 

Luis, Arizona may respond with the appropriate resources to aid in the request. These resources will 

be determined by a Joint Command established between the San Luis, Arizona Fire Chief and the 

Director of Civil Protection in San Luis Río Colorado. The responding resources will report to the 

Incident Commander and work under the Incident Commander's direction. The Incident Commander 

is also responsible for ensuring that response personnel from San Luis, Arizona are adequately 

utilized in an effective and safe manner by coordinating with the senior on scene response official 

from each responding agency. San Luis, Arizona will also activate an Emergency Operations Center 

on the San Luis, Arizona side of the border. The Emergency Operations Center will evaluate the 

ongoing situation and assist the Incident Commander with resources and technical information. 

If the incident is beyond the capabilities of both cities, the Director of Civil Protection in San Luis 

Río Colorado, Sonora may file a petition with the Director of Civil Protection, State of Sonora, to 

initiate a federal and/or Joint Response Team response. 

3.3.3 Local Response Duties 

Local agencies are responsible for emergency planning and preparedness within their jurisdictions. 

The agencies are expected to assume lead roles during the emergency phase of the incident. Local 

agencies will conduct response activities within the scope of their department training and 

capabilities. Local agencies will provide emergency response services when possible, including, 

but not limited to: 

• Notification; 

• Initial hazard identification; 

• Initial sampling to identify and determine concentrations of materials, if possible; 

• Communications; 

• Rescue and emergency medical service; 

• Fire fighting; 

• Security (site perimeter, traffic, and crowd control); 

• On scene liaison with other agencies and organizations; 

• Providing public information; and/or 

• Evacuation and shelter. 

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28 February 25, 2000 
Local government assignments in San Luis, Arizona, are generally shared among the San Luis, 

Arizona Fire Department, Yuma County Sheriff’s Department, San Luis, Arizona Police 

Department, Yuma County Emergency Services, emergency medical services, public works and the 

health department. Detailed roles and responsibilities of these agencies can be found in the San 

Luis, Arizona and Yuma County plan. 

When responding to requests for mutual aid, local response agencies from both sides of the border 

will adhere to their department’s standard operating protocols. At no time should personnel from 

either city be requested to perform duties outside their training and capabilities. Incident 

Commanders in both cities are familiar with the capabilities of the agencies available for response, 

and will use the personnel from the agencies in an appropriate manner. If concerns arise, the Fire 

Chief and Civil Protection Joint Command will be notified and an appropriate decision will be made 

at that level. 

3.4 State Response 

The State of Arizona can provide assistance for hazardous materials incidents to San Luis, Arizona, 

and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, if the combined PRP and local capabilities or resources prove 

to be insufficient, incapable or inadequate. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality 

(ADEQ) will appoint a State On Scene Coordinator (SOSC) who will assist the Incident Commander 

by providing and overseeing needed State resources. 

In Sonora, Civil Protection in San Luis Río Colorado notifies Civil Protection at the State of Sonora 

level when an incident occurs. If necessary, Civil Protection at the state level will respond with 

appropriate resources. 

3.5 Federal Response 

The U.S. Federal government can provide assistance for hazardous materials incidents if combined 

local and state capabilities or resources prove insufficient, incapable or inadequate. Once the 

National Response Center (NRC) has been notified of a release, they alert the Federal On Scene 

Coordinator (FOSC), who may activate the Regional Response Team (RRT) or the National 

Response Team (NRT), depending on the severity of the incident. For incidents occurring in the San 

Luis, Arizona area, the Federal On Scene Coordinator will be from the U.S. EPA Region IX, 

headquartered in San Francisco, CA. 

Normally, the U.S. EPA contributes to the response by working with the local, state, tribal and 

federal agencies and citizens to assure that the information needed to maximize the effectiveness of 

the response effort is easily accessible. If there is a spill where the Potentially Responsible Party 

is not identified, or does not contain, clean up the material, or adequately respond to authorities, the 

federal responsibilities will prevail as outlined in the National Contingency Plan. These 

responsibilities include assisting state and local responders in the response or, in some 

circumstances, taking over the response. 

Federal agreements between the U.S. and Mexico require that each country notify the other of 

hazardous materials incidents if there is a release or substantial threat of release which may impact 

both sides of the border. The notification should occur between local authorities and between state 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 29 
authorities on both sides of the border to ensure that the information is properly elevated to the 

federal levels as required. 

If it appears that the incident will reach a level at which local and state resources will be insufficient 

to bring the event to a successful conclusion, the Federal On Scene Coordinator, in conjunction with 

the Regional Response Team, will initiate a Joint Response Team response and implement the Joint 

Contingency Plan. 

The Mexican Federal Government can provide assistance through the National Civil Protection 

System for hazardous materials incidents to San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, if the combined 

Potentially Responsible Parties and local capabilities or resources prove to be insufficient or 

inadequate. Civil Protection will appoint an On Scene Coordinator (OSC) who will assist the 

Incident Commander by providing, coordinating and overseeing needed federal resources. 

3.6 Joint Response Team 

When the magnitude of an incident exceeds local and state response capabilities, or when a response 

involves more than one state jurisdiction, or federal lands, the federal government will coordinate 

the response operation and provide assistance as necessary. 

The U.S. EPA Regional Response Team performs regional level contingency planning, and national 

level contingency planning is performed through the National Response Team (NRT). In Mexico, 

Civil Protection has jurisdiction of hazardous materials incident planning. The Joint Response Team 

performs U.S.-Mexico border area contingency planning and training activities. The U.S. EPA cochairs the Joint Response Team for the U.S. and PROFEPA co-chairs for Mexico. 

3.6.1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

The U.S. EPA activates and operates the federal response system for inland hazardous materials 

incidents and provides a Federal On Scene Coordinator who can provide technical resources and 

expert advice on public health and environmental effects of a release. U.S. EPA also provides 

planning and preparedness assistance to prevent and mitigate environmental harm. 

3.6.2 Regional Response Team 

The Regional Response Team (RRT) is co-chaired by the U.S. EPA and the U.S. Coast Guard 

(USCG) and consists of representatives from selected state and federal agencies. It plans, prepares 

and responds to hazardous materials incidents, providing advice and recommendations to the Federal 

On Scene Coordinator. 

3.6.3 Civil Protection 

The National System of Civil Protection has established, in each federal and municipal entity, civil 

protection organizations to handle emergencies occurring in each jurisdiction. Civil Protection has 

prepared the “ANEXO III - Plan de Respuesta a Emergencias con Materiales Peligrosos” (Annex 

III - Hazardous Materials Response Plan). This plan is designed to be used by all entities in Mexico 

to aid in developing contingency plans for hazardous materials incidents. 

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30 February 25, 2000 
3.7 Joint Response Team Responsibilities 

For inland releases, the U.S. EPA provides the Federal On Scene Coordinator. Upon notification 

of a release of hazardous substances that is crossing or is likely to cross the U.S.-Mexico border, the 

National Response Center will notify the Federal On Scene Coordinator. The Federal On Scene 

Coordinator will determine as quickly as possible the need for activating the Regional Response 

Team, the Joint Response Team, the Environmental Response Team (ERT), or the National 

Response Team. For incident notification in Mexico, Civil Protection maintains a 24-hour telephone 

number in Mexico City. 

When the U.S. and Mexico have agreed to initiate a joint response to an incident, the function and 

responsibilities of the Joint Response Team include: 

•	 Advise the Federal On Scene Coordinator about measures needed to respond to the 

incident and what resources are available to carry out those measures; 

•	 Evaluate and make recommendations concerning the measures taken by the Federal 

On Scene Coordinator; 

•	 Provide continuing advice to the Federal On Scene Coordinator; 

•	 Coordinate and use as appropriate the resources that agencies or persons of the U.S. 

or Mexico or a third party can contribute; 

•	 Assist the Federal On Scene Coordinator in preparing information releases for the 

public; and 

•	 Participate in the termination of response. 

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February 25, 2000 31 
4.0 INCIDENT RESPONSE OPERATIONS AND RESOURCES
 

This plan employs the phases of operational response to an incident as outlined in the Joint 

Contingency Plan. 

4.1 Discovery and Notification 

Upon the discovery of a hazardous materials release or threatened release within the City of San 

Luis, Arizona, a notification is made to the appropriate emergency organization. The initial 

notification will involve calling 911 to notify the San Luis, Arizona Fire Department. The agency 

receiving the initial contact will follow the San Luis, Arizona Fire Department’s standard operating 

protocol for the notification of all other appropriate agencies. The potentially responsible party 

(PRP) is also required to notify appropriate federal and state agencies by contacting the National 

Response Center and other state and local agencies depending on the substance released. These 

agencies will also notify appropriate local, state, and federal agencies. 

For San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora, the potentially responsible party is required to call 060, Civil 

Protection and the Fire Department. 

Binational agreements between the Governments of the United States and Mexico require that the 

countries notify each other in the event of a release or substantial threat of a release of a hazardous 

substance, pollutant, or contaminant affecting or likely to affect the other country (Joint Contingency 

Plan Sections 105.3 and 301). 

4.2 Preliminary Assessment and Initiation of Action 

The first official on the scene will assume the role of Incident Commander. This duty will be 

relinquished to the appropriate official upon that person’s arrival at the incident. All agencies report 

to the established Incident Commander for all response and recovery operations. Each agency will 

provide its own special equipment and reference data, and will function within its field of expertise. 

If an incident exceeds the resources of the local or county agencies, command may be transferred 

to the more appropriate responding agency. This function may also be transferred to the Federal On 

Scene Coordinator, if a federal or JRT response is activated. 

4.2.1 Preliminary Assessment 

Upon confirmation that an incident may impact the other side of the border or may involve the 

release of hazardous materials, the Fire Department of San Luis, Arizona or the Director of Civil 

Protection for San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora will assume the role of Incident Commander. The 

first official on the scene assumes the role of Incident Commander until the designated senior 

official arrives to coordinate the response. 

4.2.2 Initiation of Action 

Upon arrival on scene, the predesignated Incident Commander will implement the following 

actions: 

• Relieve the first official on-site; 

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February 25, 2000 33 
•	 Establish an Incident Command Post (ICP) and implement the Incident Command 

System (ICS); and 

•	 If the incident threatens the border or the cities of San Luis, Arizona or San Luis Río 

Colorado, Sonora, the Incident Commander will ensure that the appropriate notifications 

are made to the Joint Response Team, and if mutual aid will be required, ensure that the 

proper notifications are made to implement a binational response. 

4.3 Containment 

The Incident Commander will implement appropriate measures to contain, restrict, reduce or 

eliminate the release or threat of release of hazardous materials at the incident, as well as 

downstream or downwind from the site. This includes defensive action to prevent, minimize, or 

mitigate an incident to protect public health and the environment. 

4.4 Documentation and Cost Recovery 

All actions taken during hazardous materials incidents will be carefully documented so that 

sufficient and accurate information is available to support response and recovery operations and to 

recover costs, if applicable. Documentation should be self-descriptive to prove the source and 

circumstances of the incident, identity of the potentially responsible parties, and impact or potential 

impact to public health and the environment. Documentation may be written, graphic, audiovisual, 

or in other form and will include the location of the incident, time, date and duration of the spill, 

source and cause of the incident, name and contact information of the potentially responsible parties, 

description of the released material, resources affected or threatened, status of response and cleanup 

efforts, and accurate accounting of public costs incurred. A notification form is provided for this 

purpose on page 7. 

Examples of other forms of documentation of hazardous materials incidents include: 

•	 Daily or personal logs in bound notebooks, to record all relevant response activities 

for evidentiary purposes; 

•	 Photographic documentation at the source of the release, pathway of discharge, and 

affected biota; 

•	 Samples of released material and material from the suspected source collected 

according to established chain of custody procedures; and/or 

•	 A statement of witnesses identifying the source of a release. 

4.5 Evacuation or Shelter-In-Place 

It is the responsibility of the Incident Commander to assess the hazardous materials release or 

potential release. If there is a threat to the public, immediate action needs to be taken for their 

protection. Actions which protect the public include first aid, search and rescue, designation of an 

exclusion zone, shelter-in-place, fire suppression and evacuation. 

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34 February 25, 2000 
If evacuation is necessary, the Incident Commander will determine the area that will require 

evacuation. The Incident Commander is also responsible for estimating the number of people in the 

evacuation area and number of people needing transportation assistance. The Incident Commander 

will follow all the appropriate standard operating protocols outlined in local plans. 

The Incident Commander will coordinate with law enforcement to identify major evacuation routes 

and establish traffic control points. Law enforcement will establish evacuation assembly points, 

monitor traffic flow on evacuation routes and establish security patrols and access control 

procedures. In a toxic environment, agencies with more appropriate protective clothing and 

equipment may be called upon to perform these tasks. 

If the incident is of sufficient magnitude that the potential for a cross border evacuation exists, the 

Incident Commander will work closely with the appropriate border agencies such as Immigration 

and Customs authorities. 

4.6 Post-Incident Management 

The Incident Commander, or a designated replacement, is required to remain on scene until the 

immediate danger to public health and the environment has been abated. Primary responsibility for 

the actual cleanup and restoration costs will remain with the potentially responsible parties. In the 

event that the potentially responsible parties are unknown, cleanup is the responsibility of the parcel 

manager, the lessee, the land owner, the affected jurisdiction, the county agency, the state agency, 

or the federal agency having jurisdiction. 

Cleanup and disposal of the spill should be accomplished as soon as possible. Prompt action is 

important to minimize damage to the environment. The first step is to establish the cleanup 

priorities at the site. Once the priorities are set, determination of appropriate cleanup methods is 

necessary. The cleanup actions must be constantly monitored to ensure the cleanup priorities are 

being properly addressed. 

Evaluation of the cleanup to determine its effectiveness is necessary. The evaluation process should 

assess impacts on the habitat and organisms, effectiveness of removal, public concerns, aesthetics, 

and costs. The Incident Commander must develop criteria to determine when the cleanup is 

complete, using applicable or relevant and appropriate requirements. The Incident Commander will 

ensure proper transportation and disposal of hazardous substances in compliance with local, state 

and federal laws. 

4.7 Response and Cleanup Funding Availability 

The Incident Commander will attempt to identify and have the party accountable for the release 

assume responsibility for containment, removal and disposal. In Mexico, this will be the 

responsibility of the Civil Protection authorities in accordance with the National Protection System. 

If it is determined that the PRPs are not acting promptly, taking or proposing to take appropriate 

actions, or if the PRPs are unknown, state and federal funds may be made available to ensure proper 

cleanup. 

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February 25, 2000 35 
The State On Scene Coordinator or the Federal On Scene Coordinator may make funds available. 

Depending on the circumstances, money may be made available from one or more of the following 

funds. 

4.7.1 State Funds 

The State of Arizona and the State Water Quality Assurance Revolving Fund (WQARF) maintain 

funds that can be used for the response to hazardous materials incidents. These funds are available 

on a case-by-case basis, generally for incidents for which a responsible party has not been identified, 

or when there is an immediate threat to life and health. 

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality also administers a fund to reimburse local 

government or political subdivisions for hazardous materials responses. 

4.7.2 Federal Funds 

The U.S. EPA administers the Hazardous Substance Response Trust Fund (Section 1.2.1, 

Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act) and the Local 

Government Reimbursement Program. 

In Mexico, if the releaser does not pay, funds may be available from the Office of the Federal 

Attorney General for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA). 

4.8 Communications 

Communications will be established pursuant to the local municipal standard operating protocols. 

In the event of a binational response, communications must be effectively established as soon as 

possible. 

Due to the numerous radio frequencies used by the various response agencies in the plan area, the 

Incident Commander must define a primary response channel or rely on cellular communications. 

Appendix A provides a listing of the various phone numbers available. Communications between 

the San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora command and the San Luis, Arizona command must be 

established and maintained throughout a binational response. This will ensure a secure and reliable 

flow of information between the two commands. 

4.9 Health and Safety 

The Incident Commander will be responsible for appointing a Site Safety Officer (SSO) for the 

incident. The Incident Commander and Site Safety Officer will be responsible for developing and 

implementing a Site Safety Plan to ensure the health and safety of all response personnel. For 

response across the border, the Incident Commander and senior official of each response agency will 

ensure that the appropriate state and federal worker health and safety laws of their country are 

observed while in the neighboring country. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

36 February 25, 2000 
4.10 Response Resources 

The San Luis, Arizona Fire Department has 15 full-time staff, 13 of whom are trained as HazMat 

first responders, and 13 reserves. The department also has two fully-equipped fire engines, one 

ALS- equipped ambulance, and a command vehicle equipped with oxygen and first aid supplies, in 

addition to other equipment. In the event of an extreme emergency, the Fire Department has made 

arrangements with the Public Works department and some private businesses to provide resources 

if necessary. 

San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora has two volunteer fire brigades with two stations each, for a total 

of four fire stations strategically located throughout the city. The Red Cross also has its main base 

of operations in the northwestern section of the city. 

A complete list of response resources for both cities can be found in Appendix H. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 37 
5.0 TRAINING AND EXERCISES 

This plan, written pursuant to the U.S.-Mexico Joint Contingency Plan, is an administrative 

summary of the relevant hazardous materials emergency response plans which have jurisdiction 

within the planning area. Each of the operational plans referenced requires training and exercising 

to ensure that responders are always in a state of readiness. The concepts and resources for 

binational training and exercising are important to emphasize as binational relationships and 

activities develop. 

Preparing a written plan with well-defined operational roles, policies and resource acquisition 

procedures is an essential step. The written plan should contain training requirements and 

procedures for responders. Exercising the plan provides training, allows response personnel to 

become thoroughly familiar with response procedures, resources and systems, and enables planners 

to identify areas of the plan that need improvement. 

5.1 Training 

Individual organizations are responsible for their own training. Internal binational training, private 

contractors, and state or regional training resources are some of the binational options available to 

local agencies. Organizations must ensure that personnel are adequately trained for response 

operations that they may perform. This training must comply with all applicable local, state, and 

federal worker health and safety regulations. 

5.2 Exercises 

Local and regional hazardous materials contingency plan exercises are encouraged, as they are the 

best means of keeping the plans current and active. San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, 

Sonora routinely conduct joint exercises that allow for cross training of personnel. This ensures that 

deficiencies in response activities are identified. To keep this plan current, the plan will be exercised 

annually. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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February 25, 2000 39 
APPENDIX A
 

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS DIRECTORY
 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 A-1 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

A. UNITED STATES \ ESTADOS UNIDOS 

Organization\ Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone

LOCAL AGENCIES (AREA CODE 520)\DEPENDENCIAS LOCALES (AREA 520) City of San Luis Alex Joe Harper Mayor 11195 W. Co. 21 1⁄2 477 San Luis AZ 85349 627-0

City of San Luis Alex Ruiz City Manager 23222 1st Street 1170 San Luis AZ 85349 627-2

City of San Luis Frank Carillo Asst. City Manager 23222 1st Street 1170 San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of San Luis Fire Department Arturo Miranda Chief 23256 2nd Street 445 San Luis AZ 85349 

627-8627-2

Emerg

91

627-8

City of San Luis Fire Department Othon Luna Assistant Chief 23256 2nd Street 445 San Luis AZ 85349 627-8

City of San Luis Police Department John Miranda Chief 23222 1st Street 3720 San Luis AZ 85349 

627-2

Emerg

627-8627-8

City of San Luis Public Works David Ford Director 788 B Street 3750 San Luis AZ 85349 627-8

City of San Luis Carlos Bernal Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2

City of San Luis Guillermina Fuentes Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of San Luis Daniel Gamboa Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of San Luis Pedro Julian Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of San Luis Charles Page Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of San Luis Jose Suarez Council Member 23222 1st Street San Luis AZ 85349 627-2City of Yuma Marylin Young Mayor 180 W. 1st Street Yuma AZ 85364 783-1

City of Yuma Police Department William Robinson Chief 1500 S. 1st Av. Yuma AZ 85364 783-4

City of Yuma Fire Department Gary Fisher Chief 298 4th Street Yuma AZ 85364 782-1

Rural Metro Fire Department David Rathbun Chief 660 E. 18th Place Yuma AZ 85364 

782-4783-8

Yuma County LEPC and Emergency Services Christine Herrera 

Emergency Coordinator 298 W. 4th Street Yuma AZ 85364 783-5

Yuma County Health Department David Brooks Health Director 2200 W. 28th Street Yuma AZ 85364 317-4

Yuma County Sheriff 168 South Second Avenue Yuma AZ 783-4

City of Yuma Public Works Bob Wagner Director 155 W. 14th Street Yuma AZ 85364 783-1

City of Yuma Regional Medical Center Bob Sims Safety Manager 2400 S. Av. A Yuma AZ 85364 

344-2344-7

Cocopah Tribal Police Darrell Long Chief W. County 15th Street Somerton AZ 627-8

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Arturo Miranda, Fire Chief, San Luis Fire Department \ Fuente: Arturo Miranda, Jefe deB

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

A. UNITED STATES \ ESTADOS UNIDOS 

Organization\ Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone

LOCAL AGENCIES (AREA CODE 520)\DEPENDENCIAS LOCALES (AREA 520) City of Somerton Fire Department Jose Huizar Chief 135 N. State Avenue Somerton AZ 627-9

City of Somerton Police Department Terry Hollis Chief 150 W. Main Street Somerton AZ 627-2

STATE AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS ESTATALES Arizona Commission of Agriculture and Horticulture 1688 West Adams Street Phoenix AZ 85007 (602) 54

Arizona Corporation Commission (602) 54Arizona Division of Emergency Services 5636 East McDowell Road Phoenix AZ 85008 

(602) 24

Emergenc

(602) 22

Arizona Division of Military Affairs 5636 East McDowell Road Phoenix AZ 85008 (602) 26

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Spill Phone Tucson AZ (602) 39

Arizona Department of Health Services 1651 East Morten, Suite 130 Phoenix AZ 85020 (602) 86

Arizona Department of Public Safety 2102 West Encanto Boulevard Phoenix AZ 85009 

(602) 22

(602) 26(602) 26

Arizona Department of Transportation Arizona Livestock Sanitary Board 

221 East Olympic Drive 

1688 West Adams Street 

Phoenix 

Phoenix 

AZ 

AZ 

85007 

85007 

(602) 26

(602) 54

Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency 4814 South 40th Street Phoenix AZ 85040 (602) 25

Arizona State Fire Marshall 99 Virginia, Suite 100 Phoenix AZ 85008 (602) 25

Arizona State Forester Land Department of Fire Management Division 

2901 West Pinnacle Peak Road Phoenix AZ 85027 (602) 25

Arizona State Highway Patrol 2111 Gila Ridge Road Yuma AZ (520) 78Arizona State Mine Inspector 1700 West Washington, #400 Phoenix AZ 85007 (602) 25

Poison Control - Statewide (800) 36Poison Control - Flagstaff (520) 77Poison Control - Phoenix (602) 25Poison Control - Tucson (520) 62

FEDERAL AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS FEDERALES National Response Center (800) 424EPA Region IX - San Francisco Spill Phone (415) 55

EPA San Diego Border Office 610 West Ash St, Suite 703 San Diego CA 92101 (800) 33

CHEMTREK (800) 424Chlorine Emergency Plan (800) 424CHRIS/HACS (800) 424

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Arturo Miranda, Fire Chief, San Luis Fire Department \ Fuente: Arturo Miranda, Jefe deB

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

A. UNITED STATES \ ESTADOS UNIDOS 

Organization\ Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone

FEDERAL AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS FEDERALES CIS/OHM-TADS (800) 424Nuclear Regulatory Commission (415) 94Pesticide Safety Team (800) 424Radiological Assistance - Albuquerque (DOE) (505) 844Vinyl Chloride (800) 424U.S. Air Force, Davis-Monthan AFB (602) 74U.S. Air Force, Luke AFB (602) 93U.S. Air Force, Williams AFB (602) 98U.S. Army, Fort Huachuca (602) 53U.S. Army, Fort Ord (408) 24U.S. Army Headquarters Sixth Army (duty officer) 

(415) 56(415) 56

U.S. Army Headquarters Sixth Army (response unit) (415) 56U.S. Customs San Luis Port of Entry Woodrow Westerfield 

Hazardous Materials Coordinator 7200 San Luis AZ 85349 (520) 62

U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service Jose Herrera 7050 San Luis AZ 85349 

(520) 62(520) 62

U.S. Marine Corps, Air Station (520) 72

PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS\ORGANIZACIONES PRIVADAS Association of American Railroads (Bureau of Explosives) (202) 29International Bird Rescue (415) 84KBLU Radio Station 1301 South Third Avenue Yuma AZ (520) 34

KSWT TV 13 1301 South Third Avenue Yuma AZ 

(520) 78(520) 78

KYMA TV 11 1385 South Pacific Avenue Yuma AZ (520) 78

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Arturo Miranda, Fire Chief, San Luis Fire Department \ Fuente: Arturo Miranda, Jefe deB

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

LOCAL AGENCIES (AREA CODE 653, COUNTRY CODE 52)\DEPENDENCIAS LOCALES (AREA 653) Albergue Bomberos Rurales 

C. Jesús de los Reyes Chavez (RM) Av. Tlaxcala y Calle 25 8-14

Albergue Esc. Prim. López Mateos 

C. Fco. Pérez Amarillas (RM) Av. Ortiz Rubio y Veracruz 4-71

Albergue Esc. Sec. Fed. Para Trabajadores 

C. Jesús Medina (CNE) Av. Juárez 20 y 21 4-48

Albergue Esc. Sec. General #1 

Profr. Felix Soto Barron (PENTLATON) Av. Chihuahua y Calle 26 4-08

Albergue Esc. Sec. General #2 

C. Guadalupe Mercado Llamas (RM) Av. Francisco Sarabia y Perú 4-76

Albergue Esc. Sec. General #3 

C. Lorenzo Torres Guerrero (RN) Av. Revolución y Calle 38 6-00

Albergue Esc. Sec. Instituto Kino 

C. Rafael Rivera Ortega (ZEUS) Av. Zaragoza y 4ta 4-14

Albergue Esc. Sec. No. 22 

C. Leopoldo Delgado (CNE) Av. Kino y Calle 8 4-12

Albergue Esc. Sec. Tec. #4 Manuel Soto (RN) Av. Tamaulipas y Calle 4ta 4-21

Albergue Esc. Sec. Técnica #69 

C. Hector Fidel Varela (RN) Av. Jazmin y Calle 22 8-14

Albergue Gimnasio Municipal (CUM) 

C. Eusebio López Marquez (ZEUS) Av. Juárez 4ta y 5ta 

Ayuntamiento de San Luis Rio Colorado Ing. Florencio Diaz 

Presidente Municipal 

Av. Juárez y 4a Calle, Zona Centro 

San Luis Rio Colorado Son. 4-11

Brigada de Rescate Las Aguila del Rosario 

José Rodriguez Gomez 

Av. Carranza y Calle 20 No. 2001 

Clinicas, Sanatorios y Hospitales 

Centro de Salud (Hospital Básico de la Secretaria de Salud Publica) 

Dr. Benito López Alvarez Director 

Av. Guadalupe Victoria y Calle 8 4-11

Centro Medico del Noroeste (Clinica del Noroeste) 

Dr. Raúl Hector Payan Garcia Director Av. Kino y Calle 12 4-12

Hospital Santa Margarita 

Dr. Luis Manuel Arvizu Noriega Director 

Av. 16 de Septiembre y Calle 7 

4-30

4-00-

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado \ Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

IMSS 

Dr. Mario San Miguel Alvarez 

Director del H.G.S.Z. #12 del I.M.S.S. 

Calzada Constitución y Monterrey 

4-704-99

LOCAL AGENCIES (AREA CODE 653, COUNTRY CODE 52)\DEPENDENCIAS LOCALES (AREA 653) 

ISSSTE (Clinica del ISSSTE) 

Dr. Jesús Waldemor Olea Valdés Director Av. Libertad y Calle 3ra 4-15

ISSSTESON 4-17Sanatorio González Lobos 

Dr. Ricardo González Lobos Director 

Calle Morelos y Cjon Obregon 4-11

Comisión Nacional de Emergencias, A.C. 

C. Nicolas Rodriguez Corral Comandante Cjon. Obregon y Calle 33 4-12-

Comunicación y Rescate Mexicano, A.C. 

C. Francisco Perez Amarillas Cmdte. Av. Nayarit “B” entre 31 y 31 

San Luis Río Colorado Son. 

Cruz Ambar, I.A.P. 

C. Ramon Zavala Bernal Comandante Av. Colima “B” y Calle 23 

San Luis Río Colorado Son. 6-11-

Cruz Roja Mexicana, Delegación San Luis R.C. C. Jesus Castro Mota Jefe Constitución y Calle 2da 

San Luis Río Colorado Son. 4-14-

Cuerpo de Bomberos Voluntarios de San Luis, A.C. (Rojos) 

C. Mario Gonzalez Perez Comandante Av. Juarez y calle 5ta 4-15-

Cuerpo de Rescate y Salvamento de San Luis, A.C. 

C. Professor Gregorio Santana Sanchez Comandante 

Av. Miguel Aleman y Calle 21 de Marzo 4-80-

Cuerpo Rural de Bomberos del Río Colorado, A.C. (Verdes) 

C. Jose Luis Escobedo Magallanes 1er Comandante 

Cjon. Abelardo L. Rodriguez y Calzada Monterrey 4-72-

Dif Municipal C. Jorge Plantillas Av. Juárez y Calle 30 

4-14

4-02-4-09-

Dirección de Comunicación Social y Relaciones Publicas del Ayuntamiento 

Lic. Ramon Juarez Rodriguez Av. Juárez y Calle 4ta 4-1150 x 

Dirección de Desarrollo Urbano y Ecologia Municipal 

Manuel Osorio Encinas Av. Juárez y Calle 4ta 4-1150 x 

Dirección de Obras y Servicios Publicos Municipales 

Ing. Jose Enrique Reina Lizarraga Av. Kino y Calle 10 

4-21

4-91-

Dirección de Seguridad Publica Municipal 

Ing. Luis Alberto Campa Lastra Av. Juárez y Calle 5ta 

4-16

6-21-4-32-

Dirección de Servicios Administrativos del Ayuntamiento (Compras) 

Ing. Luis Angel Garcia Ruiz Av. Juarez y Calle 4ta 4-1150 x - 

Escuadrón de Rescate de San Luis, A.C. C. Fidel Avila Ruiz Comandante Av. Juarez y Calle 28 # 2797 4-37-

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

Grupo Zeus de La Amistad 87 

Pdte. Mario Cota Gonzalez 

Cjon. Nayarit y Calle 15 #1500 4-97-

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

LOCAL AGENCIES (AREA CODE 653, COUNTRY CODE 52)\DEPENDENCIAS LOCALES (AREA 520) Jefatura de Policia y Tránsito Municipal 

C. Ing. Luis Alberto Campa Lastra Jefe Av. Juárez y Calle 5ta 

4-32-6-21-4-16-

Junta Local de Caminos del Estado de Sonora 

Ing. Sergio Aguayo Gonzalez 

Av. Tamaulipas y Calle 5ta Esq. Norte 4-16

Los Halcones de Sonora 

Domingo Juarez Corral 

Av. San Antonio y San Esteban Col. Fidel Velazquez 

Organismo Operador Municipal de Agua Potable Alcantarillado y Saneamiento de San Luis (OOMAPAS) 

Ing. C.P. Juan Carlos Ramirez Chavez 

Av. 16 de Septiembre y Calle 6ta 4-11

Pentathlon Deportivo Militarizado Universitario 

C. Profr. Felix Soto Barron Av. Sonora y Calle 3ra 6-33

Protección Civil Francisco G. Tabanico Director 

San Luis Río Colorado 6-17

Radio Ageupación Galleros Internacionales 

Eulalio Jauregui Sandoval 

Radio Club VHF de San Luis, A.C. 

Pdte. Eleazar Garcia Iñiguez Pdte. 

Cjon. Chihuahua entre Calles 27 y 28 6-35

Radio Grupo Alfa de Servicio Social, A.C. 

C. Fausto Gutierrez Ruelas 

Av. Ley de Alfabetización y Calle 12 

Radio Grupo Zeus de la Amistad 87 

C. Mario Cota Gonzalez Presidente 

Calle 15 y Cjon. Nayarit # 1500 4-97-

Sección de Obras Publicas Municipales (DOSPM) Ing. Rafael Vazquez Av. Kino y Calle 10 4-21Sección Policia Preventiva Municipal 

Jose Antonio Pineda Rodriguez Cmte. de Unidad Av. Juárez y Calle 5ta 6-33

Sección Servicios Publicos Municipales (DOSPM) 

Lic. Francisco Gallegos Ricardez Av. Kino y Calle 10 4-21

Sección Transito Municipal 

Fernando Peraza Botello Cmdte. de Unidad Av. Juárez y Calle 5ta 6-33

Sindicatura Municipal 

C. Mario Alberto Guevara Rodriguez Av. Juárez y Calle 4ta 4-1150 x 

Tesoreria Municipal 

Elizabeth Flores Lopez Av. Juárez y Calle 4ta 4-1150 x 

STATE AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS ESTATALES Agencias del Ministerio Publico del Fuero Comun (AMPFC) 

Lic. Saul Ballestero Leyva Agencia 1ra Av. Hidalgo entre 4ta y 5ta 4-41

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

Agencias del Ministerio Publico del Fuero Comun (AMPFC) 

Lic. Gregorio Ramirez C. Agencia 2da Av. Hidalgo entre 4ta y 5ta 4-59

STATE AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS ESTATALES Agencias del Ministerio Publico del Fuero Comun (AMPFC) 

Lic. Francisco J. Dueñas Mercado Agencia 3ra Av. Hidalgo entre 4ta y 5ta 4-64

Centro de Estudios Superiores del Estado de Sonora 

Lic. Jose Antonio Gomez Villa 

Carretera a Sonoyta Kilometro 8.5 4-42

Escuela de Enfermeria (Conalep) 

Ing. Miguel Haro Medina 

Carretera a Sonoyta Parque Industrial Kilometro 5.5 4-45

Instituto de Seguridad Social Al Servicio de Los Trabajadores del Estado de Sonora (ISSSTESON) Dr. Hector Vega Felix Av. Zaragoza y Calle 6ta 4-17-

Junta Local de Caminos del Estado de Sonora 

Ing. Sergio Aguayo Gonzalez 

Av. Tamaulipas y Calle 5ta Esq. Norte 4-16

Policia Judicial del Estado (PJE) 

Ramon Mantemucha Ramirez Comandante Av. Juárez entre 4ta y 5ta 4-58

Registro Civil 

Lic. Anamaria Neblina Velez Av. Juárez y Calle 4ta 4-16

Secretaria de Salud Pública (SSP) 

Dr. Benito López Alvarez 

Av. Guadalupe Victoria y Calle 8 4-10

Subdelegacion de Transporte del Estado 

C. Fernando Aguirre Yescas Av. Hidalgo entre 4ta y 5ta 4-58

FEDERAL AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS FEDERALES 22 Regimiento de Caballeria Motorizado (SDN) 

Benito Humberto Reyes AMA Gral. Brigadier 

Predio las Adelitas Carretera a Sonoyta 91 (5) 15

Aduana Fronteriza de San Luis (SHCP) 

Lic. David Homero Palafox Celaya 

Av. Carlos G. Calles entre Calles 2da y 3ra #203 

6-29

6-28-6-28-

Agencia del Ministerio Publico Federal (AMPFF) 

Lic. Francisco J. Salido Arraiza Lic. Carlos Gerardo Ruiz Ruiz 

Av. Obregon entre Calles 11 y 12 4-23

Centro de Investigacion y Seguridad Nacional (Cisen) 

Lic. Raul Javier Morales Lucio Av. Kino entre calles 6 y 7 

Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) 

Ing. Humberto Lopez Guzman 

(Delegacion San Luis) 

Av. Felix Contreras entre Calles 8 y 9 6-60

Comisión Nacional del Agua (Conagua) 

Dr. Francisco Tamargo Gerente General 4-81

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

Comisión Nacional del Agua (Conagua) 

Ing. Vicente Martinez Vargas 

(Responsable en San Luis) 4-81

Guarnición Militar de San Luis (SDN) 

Alfredo Montes Salgado 

Gral. Brigadier D.E.M. 

Av. Monterrey y Esq. San Jose Avación #2 4-70

FEDERAL AGENCIES\DEPENDENCIAS FEDERALES Instituto de Seguridad Social Al Servicio de Los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE) 

Dr. Hector Garcia Iñiguez Av. Libertad y calle 3ra 4-15

Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) 

Dr. Mario Sanmiguel Alvarez 

Calzada Constitución y Monterrey 4-70

Policia Federal de Caminos (SCT) 

Jose Luis Martinez Ramirez Comandante Cjon Internacional y calle 16 4-01

Policia Fiscal Federal (SHCP) 

Juan Antonio Herrera Cabello Cmte. Av. Carlos G. Calles y 1ra 6-29

Policia Judicial del Estado (PJE) 

Ramon Ontamucha Ramirez Comandante Av. Juárez entre 4ta y 5ta 4-58-

Policia Judicial Federal (PGR) 

José Carlos Echeverria Sánchez Cmte. 

Av. Obregon entre Calles 11 y 12 4-24

Secretaria de Agricultura, Ganaderia y Desarrollo Rural 

C. Ing. Francisco Hoyus Quiroz 

Calzada Constitución y Calle 2da 4-10

PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS\ORGANIZACIONES PRIVADAS Cámara Nacional de Comercio (Canaco) 

C. Rene Bonillas Cañez 

Av. Obregon entre Calles 14 y 15 4-11

Club Camara Junior Lic. Miguel Sandoval Club Campestre del R.C. 

Ing. Hector Islas Valdez Av. Sinaloa y Calle 29 

4-03-6-22-

Club de Leones 

Jorge Zamora de La Fuente Av. Revolución y Calle 2da 4-10-

Club Rotario 

C. Francisco Oliveros Oliveros 

Av. Guadalupe Victoria 4ta y 5ta 4-23

Colegio de Arquitectos 

Pdte. Arq. Georgina Martinez Nieblas Cjon. Obregon 33 y 34 4-38-

Colegio de Ingenieros Civiles 

Pdte. Ing. Francisco Amaya C. 

Calle 6ta #832-1 entre Cjon. Felix Contreras y Av. Revolución 4-07-

Combustibles del Río Colorado S.A. 

Lic. Roberto Ortiz Lopez Carretera a Riito Km. 6.5 

4-72

4-70-

Compañía de Gas Baja gas 

Av. Aviación s/n Col. Ganaderos 4-11

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

Compañía de Gas 

Hidrogas de Aguaprieta 

Carratera a Col. Hidalgo Km 3.5 4-95

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX A \ APENDICE A

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL PLANNING AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE CONTACTS

DIRECTORIO DE CONTACTOS PLANEACIÓN Y RESPUESTA A EMERGENCIAS DE MATERIALES PELIGRO

B. MEXICO \ MEXICO 

Organization\Organización Name\Contacto Title\Posición Address\Dirección 

P.O. Box\ 

Apartado 

Postal 

City\Ciudad State\ Estado Zip\ Código Postal Telephone\

PRIVATE ORGANIZATIONS\ORGANIZACIONES PRIVADAS Estaciones Repetidoras de Television Telemax 

Av. 5 de Mayo entre Calles 2da y 3ra 4-5252 (L

Estaciones Repetidoras de Television Televisa Mexicali Baja California Mexicali BC (65) 574144 

Medios de Prensa Al Norte C. Cayetano Sandoval 

6-01

 4-92

Medios de Prensa Gaceta C. Mariano Meza 

4-637-027-12

Medios de Prensa La Cronica 

C. Jesus Manuel Angulo Corral Av. Kino entre 3 ra y 4ta 4-13

Medios de Prensa La Prensa 

C. Augustin Chavez Gallardo Av. Tlaxcala y Calle 6ta 4-95

Medios de Prensa Pulso C. Jesus Barraza 6-11Medios de Prensa Tribuna 

C. Luis Gomez Zamora Av. Juárez y Calle 11 4-25

Organización Impulsora de Radio (O.I.R.) 

Lic. Antonio Gomez Soto Av. Kino y Calle 5ta 4-23

Radio Gallo C. Mariano Palafox 

Av. Madero entre Calles 11 y 12 4-06

Sistema Local de Cable (Cablevision) 

Ing. Sergio Fernandez Orozco Av. Carranza y Calle 12 4-25

Telefonos del Noroeste (Tel-Nor) 

C. Teresa de Jesus Lemus Ruiz Av. Hidalgo y Calle 5ta 4-17

* Indicates 24 hour service\Servicio las 24 horas Source: Francisco Tabanico, Director, Civil Protection of San Luis Río Colorado\Fuente: Francisco Tabanico, Dire

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX D 

U.S. CUSTOMS SERVICE
 

PROCEDURES FOR CROSS-BORDER EMERGENCY RESPONSE
 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 D-1 


APPENDIX E 

U.S. IMMIGRATION AND NATURALIZATION SERVICE
 

PROCEDURES FOR CROSS-BORDER EMERGENCY RESPONSE
 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 E-1 


APPENDIX F
 

CROSS BORDER EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RESPONSE SEQUENCE 

The information included in this Appendix is intended to serve as a guide for emergency medical 

personnel involved in cross-border response operations. For the San Luis, Arizona area, a more 

detailed medical response plan is currently being developed by the Western Arizona Health 

Education Council (WAHEC). Once in place, that plan should be referenced in the event of an 

emergency requiring cross-border medical attention. In the meantime, the following sequence 

should be observed: 

•	 Report is made. 

•	 Confirm the incident. 

•	 Activate the Response Plan, request that neighboring municipality be placed on standby 

alert. 

•	 Place hospital on standby. 

•	 Request status of available resources. 

•	 Assume Emergency Medical Services command and report to Unified Command Post. 

•	 Decon Sector established. 

•	 Staging Sector established. 

•	 Triage Sector established. 

•	 Establish hospital communications. 

•	 Obtain initial hospital capability/bed inventory from hospitals. 

•	 Upgrade neighboring municipality from standby to operational mode if mutual aid will be 

necessary, and advise the municipality of resource needs. 

•	 Establish Treatment Sector. 

•	 Develop listing of receiving hospitals and identify access routes. 

•	 Begin transportation of patients from Transportation Sector by priority to appropriate 

hospital. (Patients being transported across the border will be double tagged per guidelines.) 

•	 Provide appropriate pre-hospital care prior to transport if treatment sector has been 

established. 

•	 Continue to monitor hospital candidates. 

•	 Advise Medical Examiners and mortuaries if necessary. 

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February 25, 2000 F-1 
APPENDIX F
 

(Continued)
 

GUIDELINES FOR AMBULANCES
 

REQUESTED TO PROVIDE CROSS BORDER ASSISTANCE
 

When requested to provide assistance to Emergency Medical Services across the border for major 

incident/disaster situations, all ambulance crews will follow these guidelines: 

•	 Report to meeting area as directed by dispatch (usually a border crossing). 

•	 Police will meet and escort vehicles to site. 

•	 Maintain communications with dispatch on assigned channel. 

•	 On arrival at site, report to staging area as directed or site commander. 

•	 Advise EMS command whether crew is Advanced Life Support (ALS) or Mobile 

Intensive Care Unit (MICU). 

•	 Provide appropriate pre-hospital care prior to transport if treatment sector has been 

established as directed by Emergency Medical Services command. 

•	 Transportation of patients from transportation sector by priority to appropriate 

hospital as directed. Patients being transported cross border will be double tagged 

as per guidelines. 

•	 Return to site after delivering patients to appropriate hospital. 

•	 Clear and return to home base when directed by dispatch. 

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F-2 February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX G
 

CITY OF SAN LUIS, ARIZONA
 

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS EMERGENCY/SPILL RESPONSE PROCEDURE
 

I Mission 

To mobilize and coordinate public and private sector resources that may be required to 

minimize the impact of hazardous material incidents/emergencies upon the public health, 

safety, property, and the environment in the City of San Luis. And to minimize the 

exposure of the populace to the effect of an accidental release of hazardous materials 

through the establishment of effective warning, evacuation, and sheltering procedures. 

II Situation/Assumption 

A. The most probable location of hazardous material incidents/emergencies within the 

San Luis City limits are: 

1. San Luis Port of Entry 

2. Industrial Park 

3. State Route 95 

4. Agricultural Storage and Distribution Activities 

5. Commercial Area 

B. Responding City emergency response agencies may be familiar with the correct 

procedures, but may not have the specialized tools and equipment required to handle the 

specific hazardous material. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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February 25, 2000 G-1 
C. The county, state and federal governments and the private sectors possess the 

resources that my be required to augment the City of San Luis forces in responding to, 

recovery from, and mitigation of the effects of the hazardous material events. 

D. Timely and effective response supported by the county, state, federal, and private 

sector agencies require standardized reporting procedures and coordinating mechanisms 

to be established. This plan is intended to accomplish that purpose. 

III Organization, Responsibilities and Tasks 

A. Jurisdictional Responsibility - A hazardous material incident/emergency is the 

responsibility of: 

1. The incorporated City local government if the event occurs withing the City 

limits. 

2. The Yuma County government if the events occurs outside the City limits 

3. The Fire District if the event occurs within the fire district. 

4. Mutual Aid Agreements between jurisdictions will apply, emergency mutual 

assistance is encouraged 

5. At the request of the Fire Chief, or Assistant Fire Chief, the Yuma County 

department of Emergency Services (under the direction and control of the Board 

of supervisors), will arrange for and coordinate County assistance to the City. 

B. The City Emergency Response organization for hazardous materials incidents 

emergencies shall be as shown on figure 1 (not included in this Appendix). 

C. Yuma County Government 

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G-2 February 25, 2000 
1. The City Council 

The City Council is responsible to provide for the health, Welfare, and safety of 

the people of the City of San Luis, and for the preservation property (A.R.S, 

Section 26-301 et. Seq.); and will make rules and regulations, and will take 

emergency measures as they deem necessary. 

2. The Emergency Services Department, Fire and Police 

The Emergency Services Department is responsible for coordinating City 

emergency services pans, procedures, and programs, (including this Hazardous 

Materials Emergency/Spill Response Procedure) with Yuma County, and with the 

private sector. During declared emergencies this department is responsible, as 

directed by the city council, for coordinating the emergency activities of San Luis 

City departments and dgencies. 

a. Notify the County Hazardous Materials Officer and appropriate 

regulatory agencies of the hazardous material event and circumstance 

involved. (See Section VII, below.) 

b. Coordinate request for equipment and other assistance received from 

the City On Scene Coordinator. (See sub paragraph 3b [6], below.) 

c. Provide public information to the news media, in coordination with the 

City On Scene Coordinator who will respond to initial media requests 

occurring at the incident scene. 

d. Attend, as City senior representative, all after action and mitigation 

meetings of federal, state, and county responding agencies. 

3. The Fire and Police Departments 

The Fire and Police departments are responsible for providing whatever specific 

services are necessary to protect life or property, and will: 

a. When a hazardous materials incident/emergency occurs, the police 

department dispatcher (627-8881) is the 24-hour point of contact for 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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February 25, 2000 G-3 
receiving reports and notifying jurisdictional authorities, local fire 

department, local emergency district, Yuma hazardous materials team, 

Yuma county sheriff office and DPS duty officer at 1-(602)-223-2000 in 

Phoenix. (See Section VII A, below.) 

b. Designate a senior member of the Fire Department as the City On 

Scene Coordinator (COSC), who will: 

1. Mobilize others for response as outlined in this plan. 

2. Provide communications 

3. Provide requested uniformed support to other authorities for enforcement, 

evacuation, etc. 

4. Support city government emergency services agencies. 

5. During the event, work very closely with the DPS Commercial Vehicle Safety 

Specialist (CVSS) who is designated as the State On-Scene Coordinator (SOSC) 

(Reference Section IV 2, State of Arizona Hazardous Materials Emergency 

Response Plan). 

6. Keep the Director of the Emergency Services Department advised on the status 

of the accident/incident. (Note: This is vital to facilitate timely and effective 

coordination with county departments, state, and other government levels, the 

private sector and the new media.) 

D. The city engineering department is responsible for repair, clearance, and 

reconstruction of city roads, streets, and will: 

a. Provide available City Public Works Department equipment (with operators if 

possible and/or directed), and materials required for containment and limited 

cleanup operations. (See section VII, below.) 

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G-4 February 25, 2000 
b. Provide road blocks and other available equipment for traffic control in 

support of the City On-Scene Coordinator (COSC) or as requested by other 

authorities (federal, state, county, or city/town). 

c. Provide communications assistance as appropriate, via the local government 

(public works) emergency services radio net (VHF/UHF). 

d. When directed by the city council procure, borrow, lease or otherwise 

requisition additional equipment, material, and services from the private sector 

when required to effectively respond to a hazardous materials 

incident/emergency. (See section VIII, below as to documentation and other 

requirements for reimbursement of funds expended during emergency responses.) 

e. In the event of a major emergency wherein the city council orders the 

activation of the city EOC, the city engineer or a senior representative will be 

available in the EOC. 

f. Provide necessary assistance as directed and/or required. (See section VIII, 

below.) 

IV Concept of Operations 

A. Objective: 

All available public and private resources will be utilized as required to effectively 

respond to a hazardous materials incident/emergency. The objective is to provide timely 

support at the level necessary to effectively deal with the hazardous material event. 

B. Coordination Authority 

City departments and agencies identified in this plan and others will respond to the 

requests of the incident command officer to ensure a coordinated and controlled effort. 

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February 25, 2000 G-5 
C. Operational Authority 

The operational authority of city forces conducting response operations, during the 

hazard period of the incident, at or in the vicinity of the hazardous materials event is 

vesting in the fire department designated COSC. As the threat is reduced and the event 

proceed from the response phase to the recovery and mitigation phases, the operational 

control of city forces will revert back to the providing city departments or agencies. 

Simply stated, the COSC is in charge at the scene of the event. Incident command officer 

coordinates the support requested by and provided to the COSC. The city council 

exercises overall executive authority. Any questions as to authority and/or department 

jurisdiction may be addressed to the Mayor for resolution. 

D. Private Sector 

Technical assistance for response and/or recovery operations is available from several 

private sector/industry sources which posses special expertise. During the response 

phase, the COSC may initiate contact directly with these sources to expedite their 

utilization as required, or at the COSC discretion, he may request such support through 

emergency services. During the recovery and subsequent phases, requests to the private 

sector will be coordinated by emergency services. 

5. Control 

The responsibility for on scene command lies with the COSC, and is not to be usurped by 

other county, state, or federal representatives. However, the training and experience of 

the responding state and federal forces must be recognized by the COSC and utilized 

effectively in controlling the situation. 

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G-6 February 25, 2000 
6. Initiation of Action 

A. General 

Any person observing an accident/incident involving hazardous materials, or if this is 

suspected to be the case, must report it immediately to the nearest police, sheriff, or fire 

department/district office giving the location, nature of the incident, and extent of injuries 

if any. Police department number is 627-8881. 

B. Alert/Notification 

The police dispatcher immediately will: 

1. If event is reported to be in the city, alert the city police and fire department. 

2. If event is reported to be in the unincorporated area of the county (outside city limits) 

alert: 

a. The nearest deputy sheriff. 

b. The nearest fire department. 

c. The nearest ambulance service, if appropriate. 

d. The nearest haz-mat team. 

C. In all cases, alert: 

1. Fire department. 

2. The police department designated COSC. 

3. The Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) duty officer at 1-(602)-223-2000. 

4. The city director, emergency services department (627-8881) or 911. 

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VII Reporting of incident/emergency to state 

When reporting a hazardous material incident/emergency to the DPS duty officer, include 

as much of the following information as possible: 

*name, location and telephone number of the caller 

*incident source (truck, train, warehouse, etc.) 

*incident location 

*type of material involved (generic name of possible) 

*amount of material involved 

*current conditions (leaks, fires, fumes, plumes, etc.) 

*time of incident 

*on scene contact (name and telephone number) 

*type of assistance required 

*personnel on/en route to scene 

*actions anticipated and or progress 

*weather conditions and forecast 

*terrain 

*population in area 

*adjacent streams, lakes, sewers, etc. 

*name of manufacturer or shipper 

B. Accurate information, i.e. spelling of the generic name of chemical may be critical. 

This information may be determined from placards, bills of lading, and or driver 

manifests. Normally, these items may be obtained from: 

Truck: In the cab, within reach of the driver. Most have a pouch on the driver’s side. 

Trains: With the conductor or in the caboose. 

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G-8 February 25, 2000 
Warehouse: Supervisor/manager office. (Note: Do not enter the accident scene and 

attempt to obtain these documents unless you are absolutely sure that it is safe to do so.) 

C. The state is responsible for monitoring the reporting, cleanup and disposal 

requirements/operations; therefore, it is important that each and every known 

incident/accident that involves hazardous materials be reported to the director of 

emergency services for further reporting to and evaluation by the appropriate state 

regulatory agency. 

VIII Additional actions 

The federal laws fix the responsibility/liability for cleanup with the spiller; however, it is 

in the city’s interest that contamination be minimized and the required cleanup be 

expedited. In this regard, responding emergency forces must consider: 

1. Containment 

When possible, and within their knowledge and capabilities, the responding city 

emergency forces should minimize the spread of a spilled material. While the exact 

method (s) of containment chosen will be affected by such variables as type and quantity 

of material involved, its rate of release, its location and availability of containment 

materials, the major considerations are: 

a. Preventing the material from entering a body of water, i.e. lake, stream, canal, etc. 

b. Preventing spread of the material over land and/or streets and its entry into storm and 

other sewer/drainage systems. 

c. Preventing it from becoming airborne. 

d. Preventing from ignition/control of any chemical or substance that if ignited can 

create an air pollution problem. 

2. Cleanup 

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February 25, 2000 G-9 
As stated above, the responsibility for cleanup of a spilled material lies with the spiller; 

however, it is expected that there will be events in which the spiller will not be known 

and/or will refuse to accept responsibility. The following is a brief guide of action to be 

initiated in the various situations that may be encountered: 

a. Spiller accepts responsibility 

State monitors cleanup operations to ensure environmental standards are met. 

b. Spiller unknown 

If the situation is thought to present an immediate threat to health or the environment, 

report the discovery as an emergency as described in Section VII of this plan. 

c. Spiller unknown 

If there is no immediate threat to health or the environment, report the discovery to 

appropriate state regulatory agency (see section VII C). 

d. Spiller refuses to accept responsibility or comply with standards 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and/or Arizona Division of Emergency Services 

and Arizona Department of Health Services will identify the cleanup funds source and 

coordinate cleanup and disposal of the material. 

Documentation of all conversations, actions and resource utilization, including 

manpower and funds expended in all situations described above, should be maintained. 

Particular attention to detail and accuracy should be given this action, since it may be the 

basis of litigation required for recovery of damages. 

(Note: The City’s notification contact list has been incorporated into Appendix A.) 

Description of Organizations 

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G-10 February 25, 2000 
Department of Public Safety (DPS) - The DPS is the state communications center for activities 

related to hazardous materials/incidents/emergencies. DPS notifies appropriate state 

agency(ies). 

National Response Center (NRC) - The NRC is the national communications center for activities 

related to pollution incidents. It is located in Washington, DC, Headquarters of the USCG. 

Notification of the spill incidents should be made by telephone or teletype circuits. NRC notifies 

appropriate OSC. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 9 - EPA Region 9 is the Federal Agency 

responsible for coordinating federal activities related to inland discharges of oil and hazardous 

substances. EPA Region 9 is the on scene coordinator for Arizona. 

Descriptions of information systems 

Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREK) - Provides immediate advice for 

those personnel at the scene of a chemical spill, provides contact with the shipper/manufacturer 

of chemicals involved. 

EPA Office of Hazardous Materials Technical Assistance Date System (OHM-TADS) - The 

OHM-TADS is a computerized information retrieval file on more than 1,029 oil and hazardous 

substances. The system is available to assist in identification of an unknown spilled material 

from certain observations. Access to OHM-TADS is through the EPA Regional Office. 

NIH/EPA Chemical Information Systems (CIS) - This CIS is a collection of scientific data basis 

available through an interactive computer system. The information system can provide numeric 

data on over 116,000 chemical substances. 

U.S. Coast Guard (CHRIS) - A four volume system containing essential information on 

chemicals, physical and toxicological properties of hazardous chemicals. Contains methods of 

estimation of the rate and quantity of hazardous chemicals that may be released and methods for 

predicting the potential toxic, fire and explosive hazards. The system also contains information 

in existing methodology for handling spills and list of manufacturer’s equipment. 

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February 25, 2000 G-11 
HACS - Hazardous assessment computer system is the computerized counterpart to Volume 3 of 

the CHRIS. 

Pesticide Safety Team Network (PSTN) - Provides information and assistance for cleanup and 

decontamination of pesticides and Class B poisons. Contact through CHEMTREK. 

Chlorine Institute - Provides information and assistance in dealing with chlorine emergencies. 

Contact through CHEMTREK. 

Vinyl Chloride Institute - Provides information and assistance in dealing with vinyl chloride 

emergencies. Contact through CHEMTREK. 

Nuclear Regulatory Commission - Provides information and assistance in handling accidents 

involving radioactive materials. 

Bureau of Explosives - Provides information and assistance in handling railroad accidents 

involving hazardous materials. 

Internal Bird Rescue - A private nonprofit organization that provides information and assistance 

for care and cleaning of contaminated birds. 

U.S. Army - Provides information and assistance in handling military munitionschemical/explosive. 

U.S. Air Force - Provides information and assistance in handling military munitions, aircraft 

ejection systems, etc. 

U.S. Marine Corps - Provides information and assistance in handling military munitions, aircraft 

ejection systems, etc. 

Poison Control Center - Provides information and assistance in emergency treatment of expose 

persons. 

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APPENDIX H
 

RESPONSE RESOURCES 

San Luis, Arizona 

The San Luis Fire Department has the following resources available: 

Personnel 

15 full-time employees, including: 

•	 1 Fire Chief 

•	 1 Asst. Fire Chief 

•	 3 Captains 

•	 2 Paramedics/Firefighters 

•	 7 Emergency Medical Technicians/Firefighters 

•	 1 Secretary 

•	 13 of the full-time staff are certified HazMat first responders, 7 are ALS 

Paramedics and 1 is an ALS Technician. 

13 Reserves, most of whom are EMTs/Firefighters; some are EMTs only. 

Vehicles 

•	 Engine One: Pierce Saber 1997
 

Single Stage
 

1250 gpm pump 

750 gal. water tank 

30 gal. foam tank 

•	 Engine Two: Grumman, Ford 1986 

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February 25, 2000 H-1 
 

Two Stages 

1000 gpm pump 

750 gal. water tank 

The two engines are completely equipped for fire suppression, ventilation, and 

overhaul. 

• Ambulance: Ford, Type III Diesel 

Full ACLS equipped 

• Command One: Jeep Cherokee 1994 

First Aid and Oxygen equipped 

• Administrative: Ford Crown Victoria, 1995 

Ford F-150 Truck, 1992 

Fire Equipment 

• Cascade System (Mako) ACO5 86 500 psig, 1300 rpm, 7.5 hp SCBA fill station 

• Full Hydraulic Extrication Tools (Hurst) 

• Full Air Pressure Rescue Bags 

• Combustible Gas Indicator 5 Star Passport, MSA 

In addition to Fire Department resources, the following resources have also been committed in the 

event of an emergency by the city and private sector: 

San Luis Public Works 

• 1 Dump Truck, 12 Yards 

• 1 Dump Truck, 4 Yards 

• 2 Backhoes 

• 1 Water Truck, 2000 gallons 

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H-2 February 25, 2000 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

• 1 Grader, Galeon 250 

• 1 Portable Air Compressor, 185 psi 

• 1 Portable Electrical Welder 

• 1 Portable Torch 

• 8 Pick-up Trucks 

• 1000 Gallons of Diesel 

• 500 Gallons of Gasoline 

Russ Jones Enterprises 

• Semi-Trucks 

• Small size Trucks, one ton 

• Pick-up trucks 

• Fork Lifts 

• Diesel 

Factor Sales 

• Unlimited amount of merchandise 

• 12 Semi-Trucks 

• 21 Trailers 

• 2 Concrete Fork Lifts 

• 1 Sand Fork Lift 

San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

Rural Firefighters (Bomberos Rurales) 

• 4 Fire Engines 

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February 25, 2000 H-3 
• 2 Base Stations 

• 2 Planning Rooms 

• 7 Radio Communications Sets 

• 60 Volunteer Firefighters 

Volunteer Firefighters (Bomberos Voluntarios) 

• 3 Fire Engines 

• 1 Rescue Pick-up 

• 20 Volunteer Firefighters 

• 10 Radio Communications Sets 

Red Cross 

City of San Luis Río Colorado: 

• 46 Volunteers 

• 5 Ambulances 

• 1 Pick-up 

Luis B. Sánchez: 

• 5 Volunteers 

• 2 Ambulances 

Mesa Rica: 

• 4 Volunteers 

• 2 Ambulances 

Golfo de Santa Clara: 

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H-4 February 25, 2000 
• 3 Volunteers 

• 1 Ambulance 

Municipality of San Luis Río Colorado 

Public Works and Services: 

• 12 Trucks 

• 1 Automobile 

• 15 Trash Trucks 

• 1 Bacheadora 

• 12 Mobile Barredoras 

• 1 Tractor 

• 1 Trascabo 

• 3 Gas Trucks 

• 1 Asphalt Storage Tank 

• 6 Tow Trucks 

• 1 Bibrocompactador 

• 24 Pick-ups 

• 4 Graders 

Division of Police and Transit: 

• 106 Squad Cars 

• 15 Pick-ups 

Others: 

• 7 Pick-ups 

• 3 Graders 

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February 25, 2000 H-5 
• 3 Trucks 

• 12 Automobiles 

• 1 Trash Truck 

Municipal Operating Organism for Drinking Water, Sewage and Sanitation (OOMAPAS) 

• 41 Pick-ups 

• 6 Automobiles 

• 4 Trucks 

Social Service Volunteer Groups 

Rescue Corps (Cuerpo de Rescate): 

• 1 Ambulance 

• 1 Rescue Pick-up 

• Motor Launches 

Yellow Cross (Cruz Ambar I.A.P.): 

• 2 Ambulances 

• 2 Pick-ups 

National Emergency Commission (Comisión Nacional de Emergencias): 

• 2 Ambulances 

• 1 Pick-up 

Mexican Rescue (Rescate Mexicano): 

• 2 Ambulances 

• 2 Pick-ups 

• 2 Electric Generators 

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H-6 February 25, 2000 
• 1 Trailer House 

Rescue Squadron (Escuadrón de Rescate): 

• 3 Ambulances 

• 2 Pick-ups 

• 1 Motor Launch 

Grupo Zeus 87: 

• 3 Pick-ups 

Alfa Social Service Group (Grupo Alfa de Servicio Social): 

• 2 Pick-ups 

Halcones de Sonora: 

• 3 Pick-ups 

Las Aguilas del Rosario: 

• 3 Automobiles 

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February 25, 2000 H-7 
APPENDIX I
 

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
 

ENGLISH SPANISH 

ADEQ Arizona Department of Environmental 

Quality 

ADEQ Departamento de Calidad Ambiental de 

Arizona 

ALS Advanced Life Support ALS Sostenimiento Permanente de Vida 

ARS Arizona Revised Statues ARS Estatuos Revisados de Arizona 

BEPC Binational Emergency Planning 

Committee 

CBPE Comité Binacional de Planeación de 

Emergencias 

CENACOM National Communications Center 

(Mexico) 

CENACOM Centro Nacional de Comunicaciones 

(México) 

CENAPRED National Disaster Prevention Center 

(Mexico) 

CENAPRED Centro Nacional de Prevención de 

Desastres (México) 

CEPPO Chemical Emergency Preparedness and 

Prevention Office (U.S. EPA) 

CEPPO Oficina de Preparación y Prevención de 

Emergencias Químicas (E.U.) 

CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental 

Response, Compensation and Liability 

Act (U.S.) 

CERCLA Ley General de Respuesta, 

Compensación y Responsabilidad (E.U.) 

CHEMTREK Chemical Transportation Emergency 

Center (U.S.) 

CHEMTREK Centro de Transportación Emergente de 

Químicos 

CHRIS/HACS Chemical Hazards Response Information 

System / Hazardous Assessment 

Computer System (U.S.) 

CHRIS/HACS Sistema de Información de Respuestas de 

Químicos Peligrosos / Sistema 

Computacional Evaluativo de Riesgos 

CIS Chemical Information Systems (U.S. 

EPA and National Institutes of Health) 

CIS Sistemas de Información de Químicos 

(U.S. EPA y Institutos Nacionales de 

Salud) 

CNA National Water Commission (Mexico) CNA Comisión Nacional del Agua (México) 

COSC City On Scene Coordinator CMEE Coordinador Municipal en Escena 

CVSS Commercial Vehicle Safety Specialist 

(U.S.) 

CVSS Especialista en Seguridad de Vehículos 

Comerciales (E.U.) 

CWA Clean Water Act (U.S.) CWA Ley de Agua Sana (E.U.) 

DOE U.S. Department of Energy DOE Departamento de Energia (E.U.) 

DPS Arizona Department of Public Safety DPS Departamento de Seguridad Pública de 

Arizona 

EHS Extremely hazardous substance EHS Sustancia extremadamente peligrosa 

EOC Emergency Operations Center COE Centro de Operaciones de Emergencia 

EMS Emergency Medical Services SME Servicios Médicos de Emergencia 

EPA Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.) EPA Agencia de Protección Ambiental (E.U.) 

EPCRA Emergency Planning and Community 

Right-to-Know Act (U.S.) 

EPCRA Acta de Planeación de Emergencias y 

Derecho de Conocimiento de la 

Comunidad (E.U.) 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

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ENGLISH SPANISH 

ERT Environmental Response Team ERT Equipo de Respuesta Ambiental 

FEMA Federal Emergency Management 

Agency (U.S.) 

FEMA Agencia Federal para el Manejo de 

Emergencias (E.U.) 

FOSC Federal On Scene Coordinator CFEE Coordinador Federal en Escena 

HAZMAT Hazardous Materials MP Materiales Peligrosos 

IBWC International Boundary and Water 

Commission 

CILA Comisión Internacional de Límites y 

Aguas 

IC Incident Commander CI Comandante del Incidente 

ICP Incident Command Post PMI Puesto de Mando del Incidente 

ICS Incident Command System SMI Sistema de Mando del Incidente 

INE National Institute of Ecology (Mexico) INE Instituto Nacional de Ecología (México) 

INS Immigration and Naturalization Service 

(U.S.) 

INS Servicio de Migración y Naturalización 

(E.U.) 

ISJRT Issue/Incident Specific Joint Response 

Team 

ERCIE Equipo de Respuesta Conjunta de 

Asunto/Incidente Específico 

JCP Joint Contingency Plan PCC Plan Conjunto de Contingencias 

JRT Joint Response Team ERC Equipo de Respuesta Conjunta 

LEPC Local Emergency Planning Committee LEPC Comité Local de Planeación de 

Emergencias 

MICU Mobile Intensive Care Unit UMCI Unidad Móvil de Cuidado Intensivo 

NCP National Oil and Hazardous Substances 

Contingency Plan (U.S.) 

NCP Plan Nacional de Contingencias por 

Contaminación de Petróleo y Sustancias 

Peligrosas 

NRC National Response Center (U.S.) NRC Centro Nacional de Respuestas (E.U.) 

NRT National Response Team (U.S.) NRT Equipo Nacional de Respuesta (E.U.) 

OHM-TADS EPA Office of Hazardous Materials 

Technical Assistance Data System (U.S.) 

OHM-TADS Oficina de Materiales Peligrosos de la 

EPA, Sistema de Datos de Apoyo 

Técnico (E.U.) 

OPA Oil Pollution Act (U.S.) OPA Decreto de Contaminación de Aceites 

(E.U.) 

OSC On Scene Coordinator CEE Coordinador en Escena 

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health 

Administration (U.S.) 

OSHA Administración de Seguridad y Salud en 

el Trabajo (E.U.) 

PROFEPA Federal Attorney General for 

Environmental Protection (Mexico) 

PROFEPA Procuraduría Federal de Protección al 

Ambiente (México) 

PRP Potentially Responsible Party PRP Parte Posiblemente Responsable 

PSTN Pesticide Safety Team Network PSTN Red Equipo de Seguridad contra 

Pesticidas 

REDI Arizona Rural Economic Development 

Initiative 

REDI Iniciativa de Desarrollo Económico 

Rural de Arizona 

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I-2 February 25, 2000 
ENGLISH SPANISH 

RRT Regional Response Team (U.S.) RRT Equipo de Respuesta Regional (E.U.) 

SARA Title III Superfund Amendments and 

Reauthorization Act Title III (the 

Emergency Planning and Community 

Right-to-Know Act of 1986) (U.S.) 

SARA Título III Ley de Planeación de Emergencias y del 

Derecho-de-Estar-Informados de la 

Comunidad de 1986 de la Ley de 

Enmiendas y Reautorización del 

Superfondo (E.U.) 

SBR Sequencing Batch Reactor SBR Reactor de Cargas en Secuencia 

SEMARNAP Secretariat of Environment, Natural 

Resources, and Fisheries (Mexico) 

SEMARNAP Secretaría de Medio Ambiente, Recursos 

Naturales y Pesca (México) 

SERC State Emergency Response Commission 

(U.S.) 

SERC Comisión Estatal de Respuesta a 

Emergencias (E.U.) 

SINAPROC National Civil Protection System 

(Mexico) 

SINAPROC Sistema Nacional de Protección Civil 

(México) 

SITREP Situation Report REPSIT Reporte de Situación 

SOP Standard Operating Protocols SOP Protocolos Normales de Operación 

SOSC State On Scene Coordinator CEEE Coordinador Estatal en Escena 

SSO Site Safety Officer OSS Oficial de Seguridad en en Sitio 

USCG U.S. Coast Guard (U.S.) USCG Guardia Costera de los E.U. (E.U.) 

WQARF State of Arizona Water Quality 

Assurance Revolving Fund 

WQARF Fondo Revolvente de la Oficina Estatal 

para Asegurar la Calidad del Agua del 

Estado de Arizona 

YEDC Yuma Economic Development 

Corporation 

YEDC Corporación de Desarrollo Económico 

de Yuma 

YFD Yuma Fire Department YFD Departamento de Bomberos de Yuma 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 I-3 
Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

I-4 February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX J
 

DEFINITIONS
 

Area Contingency Plan: As defined by sections 311(a) (19) and (j) (4) of CWA, as amended by 

OPA, means the plan prepared by an Area Committee, that in conjunction with the NCP, shall 

address the removal of a discharge including a worst-case discharge and the mitigation or prevention 

of a substantial threat of such a discharge from a vessel, offshore facility, or on-shore facility 

operating in or near an area designated by the President. 

Cleanup: For the purposes of this document, cleanup refers to the removal and/or treatment of oil, 

hazardous substances, and/or the waste or contaminated materials generated by the incident. 

Cleanup includes restoration of the site and its natural resources. 

Decontamination: The removal of hazardous substances from personnel and their equipment 

necessary to prevent adverse health effects and secondary contamination. 

Discharge: Any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying or dumping. 

Drinking Water Supply: As defined by section 101(7) of CERCLA, means any raw or finished 

water source that is or may be used by a public water system (as defined in the Safe Drinking Water 

Act) or as drinking water by one or more individuals. 

Environment: The atmosphere, land surface or subsurface strata, and surface and ground waters, 

including the natural resources contained therein, such as fish, wildlife, forests, farm and pasture 

lands, rivers, streams, aquifers, and all other components of the ecosystem. 

Environmentally Sensitive Area: An especially delicate or sensitive natural resource that requires 

protection in the event of a pollution incident. 

Ground Water: As defined by section 101(12) of CERCLA, water in a saturated zone or stratum 

beneath the surface of land or water. 

Hazardous Material: Any non-radioactive solid, liquid, or gaseous substance which, when 

uncontrolled may be harmful to humans, animals, or the environment: including, but not limited to, 

substances otherwise defined as hazardous wastes, dangerous wastes, extremely hazardous wastes, 

oil or pollutants. 

Incident: Any event that results in a discharge of oil or hazardous materials. Action by emergency 

service personnel may be required to prevent or minimize loss of life or damage to property and/or 

natural resources. 

Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC): A group of local representatives appointed by 

the State Emergency Response Commission (SERC) to prepare local oil and hazardous materials 

spill response plans as per the mandates of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act, 

Title III. 

Natural Resources: Land, fish, wildlife, biota, air, water, ground water, drinking water supplies, 

and other such resources. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 J-1 
On Scene Coordinator (OSC): The government official at an incident scene responsible for 

coordinating response activities. 

Pollutant or Contaminant: Includes but is not limited to any element, substance, compound, or 

mixture, including disease-causing agents, which after release into the environment and upon 

exposure, ingestion, inhalation, or assimilation into any organism, either directly from the 

environment or indirectly by ingestion through food chains, will or may reasonably be anticipated 

to cause death, disease, behavioral abnormalities, cancer, genetic mutation or physiological 

malfunctions, or physical or reproductive deformations in such organisms and their offspring. 

Regional Response Team (RRT): The federal response organization (consisting of representatives 

from selected federal and state agencies) which acts as a regional body responsible for planning and 

preparedness before an oil spill occurs and for providing advice to the OSC in the event of a major 

or substantial spill. 

Release: Any spilling, leaking, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, injecting, 

escaping, leaching, dumping, or disposing of hazardous substances, pollutants or contaminants into 

the environment including the abandonment or discarding of barrels, containers and other closed 

receptacles containing any hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant. It excludes: (a) any 

release which results in exposure to persons solely within a work place; (b) emissions from the 

engine exhaust of a motor vehicle, rolling stock, aircraft, vessel, or pipeline pumping station engine; 

and (c) the normal application of fertilizer. 

State Emergency Response Commission (SERC): A group of officials appointed by the state 

governor to implement the provisions of Title III of the Federal Superfund Amendments and 

Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA). The SERC approves the State Oil and Hazardous Substances 

Discharge Prevention and Contingency Plan and Local Emergency Response Plans. 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

J-2 February 25, 2000 
APPENDIX K
 

REVISION DIARY
 

REVISION DIARY 

DESCRIPTION DATE 

1. Original Signing of the Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan February 25, 2000 

Binational Prevention and Emergency Response Plan 

Between San Luis, Arizona and San Luis Río Colorado, Sonora 

February 25, 2000 K-1