Emergency Response


USFA, IAFF Update Emergency Incident Rehabilitation Manual

The revised manual examines critical topics related to operational issues and addresses ways to better protect firefighters and other emergency responders through the use of proper protective clothing and improved tactical procedures.

Federal Spending on WTC Responders' Treatment: $261 Million Plus

This week's GAO report says NIOSH is estimating the costs it oversees correctly for FY2008 because the estimates are based on actual experience, not predicted care.

Georgia Issues Combustible Dust Safety Regulation

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John Oxendine said the rule is intended to prevent any more incidents like the Port Wentworth Imperial Sugar explosion last month.

OSHA Unwraps Combustible Dust Topics Page

The page, unveiled by agency chief Edwin Foulke Jr., links to the current National Emphasis Program, a bulletin on dust hazards, and several relevant standards.

HSC: Families Not Doing Enough to Prevent Home Poison Dangers

"Poison Prevention Month is a helpful reminder for all of us to take action against this major health problem," said HSC's Dr. Angela Mickalide.

Report: Public Safety IT Market to Reach $21.3 Billion by 2011

Emergency workers are increasingly using PDAs, laptops, and mobile data terminals, according to Compass Intelligence, the consulting firm that conducted the research.

FEMA's Crisis Counseling Program Needs Improvement: GAO

A new report says evidence from six states' recent disasters suggests the program to help with psychological trauma needs to revise rules that hampered states' efforts.



36,880 Estimated Firefighter Fireground Injuries in 2004: USFA

Twice as many firefighters are injured each year performing fireground duties as there are fire injuries to the civilian population, reaching an estimated total of 36,880 in 2004, according to a new report issued yesterday by the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Fire Administration.

Baltimore Hires Away Minneapolis' Fire Chief

Jim Clack headed the response when the I-35W highway bridge collapsed Aug. 1, 2007. Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon will announce his appointment today.

Georgia Sugar Mill Death Toll Rises to 11

A burn center in Augusta, Ga., reported the 11th death Sunday and said 12 more patients remained in critical condition.

Four Injuries Reported in West Texas Refinery Explosion

The blast appeared to heavily damage Alon USA's refinery in Big Spring, which employs 170 people and has a daily crude oil throughput capacity of 70,000 barrels, according to the Dallas-based company's Web site.

Sixth Body Found by Searchers at Georgia Sugar Plant

Two other workers remained missing when the search was suspended Sunday, the Associated Press reported.

Final Rule Ups Underground Coal Mines' Rescue Requirements

MSHA issued it today, and 653 coal mines now have two 2008 deadlines for filing their plans, training rescuers, and possibly preparing new rescue teams.

Maryland Upgrading State Police Copter Fleet

The state's governor, Martin O'Malley, announced $33.6 million has been allocated to buy three new helicopters. Medical evacuation is their chief mission.

Marine Safety Expert Now Heads NOAA Response Office

David Westerholm is a former chief of the Coast Guard's Office of Response. He started his new job Jan. 21.

MSHA Approves First Wireless Miner Tracking System

This technology "represents significant progress under the MINER Act," the agency said today.

A New Transport Option

Last year, the 6,000-squaremile National Capital Region around Washington, D.C., which includes the Pentagon and offices for about 340,000 federal workers, received the first seven Mobile Evacuation Buses produced by High Point, N.C.’s Sartin Services Inc. Ed Sartin, the company’s president, said emergency responders in many jurisdictions are looking for vehicles that can accommodate multiple patients.

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