TERRORISM
A Medical - Health Perspective
for Ventura County, California

Suspicious Substances

Provided by: Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency and Department of Public Health

Introduction
Prior to September 11, 2001, "terrorism" was the last thought in mind of most Americans. The tragic events in New York City, Washington DC, and near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has changed the way we view our daily lives and inspired fear in many of us.

The goal of this document is to provide a basic guideline for dealing with unknown or suspicious substances.

First things First!
In most cases, substances that appear to be questionable will turn out to be common household products or waste. Items such as construction dust, cleaning products, automotive byproducts, etc. find themselves in buckets, trash bags, and barrels in the wrong place. Understanding that the substance you locate will most likely be non-hazardous - the key is to REMAIN CALM!

Isolate
The first step is the most important - Isolate the area around the substance.

Do not:

• Smell, taste, or touch the substance.
• Disturb the substance by attempting to clean it up.
• Apply water or any other product.

Contain
Containment is a priority in controlling the effects of an unknown substance.

Be sure to do the following:

• Close doors and windows leading to the area where the substance is located.
• Turn off air conditioning and/or heating systems to the area where the substance is located.

Deny Entry
Ensure that others do not enter the area where the substance is located. Place a monitor to direct others away from the area without creating panic.

In the event that a substance is found to be of concern, it may be necessary to contact everyone who came in contact or close proximity to the substance. Do not allow others to stray too far but ensure adequate distance from the substance.

Call 9-1-1
Call 911 and follow the instructions provided by the dispatcher. Be sure to be the last to hang up.

Meet the First Responders
Have someone direct the first responders to the area. Provide necessary information as requested.

What can I expect from the First Responders?
In most cases, the fire department will be the first to arrive. They will conduct a rapid assessment of the situation and determine if it is necessary to have hazardous materials (HAZMAT), ambulances, police, or other units respond.

All fire department personnel are trained as HAZMAT First Responders at the Operational level. This assists in the basic identification and mitigation of hazardous materials.

HAZMAT teams have a greater level of education, equipment, and expertise in dealing with unknown substances. Ventura County has four fully equipped HAZMAT teams available around the clock. Other teams may also be requested through existing mutual aid agreements.

The HAZMAT team commander will make any necessary notifications including Public Health, FBI, military, or any other organization having jurisdiction.

What happens if the substance is found to be potentially dangerous?
Depending on the nature of the substance, decontamination or medical treatment may be required.

Decontamination most commonly consists of cleansing with pressurized water and brushes. This procedure removes any product that may have been deposited on a person. Contaminated clothing will be removed and stored for evaluation - you will be provided with temporary clothing to ensure your privacy and dignity.

If it is necessary for you to receive medical care, all prehospital care personnel are trained to provide the highest level of care. The hospital will also be notified, in advance, of the substance you were exposed to and any specific information necessary to aid speedy treatment.

It is very rare that decontamination and medical care are necessary in the majority of HAZMAT responses.

Will I be fined if I call 911 and the substance turns out to be nothing?
As long as your call was not malicious in nature - No, you will not be subject to any fines.

Additional Information

Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency
805-981-5301

Ventura County Fire Department
805-389-9710

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