DECON SECOND THOUGHTS
— A tremendous amount of logistics is involved.
— Several disposable suits failed quickly in armpits and legs. Rainsuits should have been used.
— Some disposable suits were too small, and some had no booties.
— Powdered soaps did not work well in sprayers.
— Synthetic hose cleaned up easily, while cotton jacket hose was salvaged.
— Need for more drying towels on haz-mat vehicle for body drying.
— Need for more hand soaps and paper towels for spot washing.
— Need for plastic, 30-gallon garbage cans to hold the waste.
— Chief officer must be in charge of decon.
— Obtain decon vest for identification of the team.
— Explore the possibility of investing in an enclosed decon trailer for the department or county.
— A paramedic/firefighter conducted medical triage after decon.
— Set up tape lines and folding metal signs for the decon process.
— Share your decon layout plan with mutual-aid responders in advance.
— Maintain exposure reports for all responders.
— Document decon ops in detail to gain a better understanding of logistics and supplies used.
— Increase stock levels of disposable clothing, towels, blankets, footwear, and plastic pools.
— Watch the resource level so the decon does not deplete personnel for overhaul and cleanup.