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Methamphetamine Labs and Chemical Emergency Response. Anchorage Fire Department Battalion Chief Wade Strahan. Dangerous to the Public and Firefighters. According to the Center for Disease Control and prevention 79 emergency responders were injured in 14 states between 1996 and 1999.
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Methamphetamine Labs and Chemical Emergency Response Anchorage Fire Department Battalion Chief Wade Strahan
Dangerous to the Public and Firefighters • According to the Center for Disease Control and prevention 79 emergency responders were injured in 14 states between 1996 and 1999.
AFD Meth Finds • Fire • Medical Emergency • “Funny smells” • Auto accidents • Dumped waste
Lab Locations • Mini-storage • Motel rooms • Trailers • Motor Homes • Cars • Trucks
Primary Fire Department Emergency Functions • Life Safety & Rescue • Mitigate Emergency Conditions • Fire • Medical • Chemical • Support Law Enforcement
Lab Site HazardsRisks to Firefighters and Responders • Fire • Explosions • Booby Traps • Criminal Activities • Chemical Exposures
AFD Chemical ID Equipment • Chemical ID is a basic hazmat team competency • Most newer equipment acquired through domestic preparedness grants for terrorism response.
Hazcat Kit 10 –45 Minute Process
Hazmat IDInfrared Spectroscopy 2-3 Minute Process
Ramam Technology Laser Spectroscopy 2-3 Minute Process Point and Shoot
Common Chemicals • Flammable Liquids • Acids • Strong Bases • Pressurized Gasses
Fire Department Response to Known Lab • Support Law Enforcement • Decontamination • Emergency Medical Assistance • Fire and Explosion Protection • Hazmat Team Assistance
Conclusion • Firefighters may not be aware of a meth lab operation when responding to an incident • Meth labs can be equipped with “security devices” containing explosives • Firefighters can encounter dangerous criminals • A meth lab is always a hazardous materials incident