Lucas County IAP Safety Plan

THIS IS AN EXERCISE

Incident Action Plan (IAP) - Site Safety Plan (Lucas County Specific)

1. Incident Name: COMEX CLOSEDCIRCUIT25

2. Operational Period: From: 2025-06-08 06:00 To: 2025-06-08 18:00

3. Site Safety Plan (Key Hazards & Mitigations):

• Floodwater Contamination (General & Lucas County Specific):

  • Hazards: Floodwaters in Lucas County, particularly impacting areas along the Maumee River and in the Port of Toledo vicinity, may contain raw sewage, agricultural runoff, industrial chemicals, fuels (e.g., from shipping, port facilities, or dislodged tanks), and displaced hazardous materials (household cleaners, pool chemicals, propane tanks).

  • Mitigation:

    • Avoid direct contact with floodwaters by all personnel and advise affected populations to do the same.

    • Utilize appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for all responders: minimum of waterproof boots, gloves (nitrile/neoprene), eye protection. Respirators (N95 or higher) and full-body splash protection (e.g., hazmat suits) as dictated by specific contamination threats identified.

    • Implement strict hygiene protocols: thorough handwashing with soap and water (or alcohol-based sanitizer if water is unavailable) immediately after contact with floodwaters or contaminated surfaces.

    • Advise prompt and thorough cleaning/disinfection of any open wounds or cuts that come into contact with floodwaters.

    • Establish and clearly mark decontamination points for personnel and equipment exiting contaminated zones.

    • Immediately identify, isolate, and report any dislodged hazardous materials (e.g., barrels, drums, propane tanks) to the Hazardous Materials Branch/Unit. This is particularly critical in industrial or port areas.

• Mold Growth:

  • Hazards: Rapid and extensive mold growth is anticipated in all flooded structures, posing significant respiratory hazards and potentially exacerbating allergies and asthma.

  • Mitigation:

    • Advise proper ventilation of affected buildings during cleanup once safe to enter.

    • Recommend N95 respirators, gloves, and eye protection for personnel entering mold-affected areas.

• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Poisoning:

  • Hazards: Increased risk from improper use of generators, charcoal grills, propane stoves, or other fuel-burning devices indoors or in poorly ventilated areas during power outages.

  • Mitigation:

    • Disseminate strict public warnings on safe generator placement (outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and vents) and the critical importance of functioning carbon monoxide detectors.

    • Advise responders to carry personal CO monitors when operating in enclosed spaces with potential generator use.

• Animal/Pest-Related Exposures:

  • Hazards: Flooding displaces local wildlife (e.g., snakes, rodents) and increases insect activity, raising the risk of bites, stings, and potential disease transmission.

  • Mitigation:

    • Advise caution when entering flooded or previously flooded areas, especially where visibility is low.

    • Instruct personnel and public to report unusual animal behavior or sightings of displaced wildlife.

    • Seek immediate medical attention for any animal bites or severe stings.

• Medication Contamination:

  • Hazards: Personal and household medications exposed to floodwaters are considered contaminated.

  • Mitigation: Advise the public on safe collection and disposal methods for contaminated medications; do not consume.

• Electrical Hazards:

  • Hazards: Downed power lines, submerged electrical equipment, compromised household electrical systems.

  • Mitigation: Assume all downed lines are energized. Do not enter water where electrical hazards are suspected. Ensure power is shut off to flooded structures before entry.

• Structural Instability/Debris:

  • Hazards: Weakened structures, sharp debris, hidden hazards under floodwaters.

  • Mitigation: Conduct structural assessments before entry. Wear puncture-resistant footwear. Use caution when moving through debris.

• Industrial/Port Contaminants (Lucas County Specific):

  • Hazards: Potential for spills or releases from industrial facilities, storage tanks, or cargo ships within the Port of Toledo area. This includes various chemicals, fuels, and oils.

  • Mitigation:

    • Maintain heightened vigilance in and around industrial zones and port facilities.

    • Refer to HazMat teams immediately for assessment and management of any suspected industrial spills or chemical releases.

    • Utilize specialized PPE as directed by HazMat professionals when operating in suspected contaminated areas.

    • Monitor air quality in affected industrial zones.

THIS IS AN EXERCISE