Keep Your Volunteer Experience Safe, FEMA Advises
Release Date: July 21, 2006
Release Number: 1603-512
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NEW ORLEANS, La. -- During this summer many people will skip traditional vacations and head to disaster ravaged communities to help rebuild. "Volunteers are a great asset to the recovery process," said Gil Jamieson, Deputy Director for Gulf Coast Recovery. "They provide inspiration and hope to residents working to rebuild their homes and lives, not to mention time and labor."
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) advises volunteers to be vigilant as they may be faced with a wide range of potentially hazardous conditions. Volunteers should use caution in regard to extreme weather conditions, contaminated buildings, air quality, hazardous items, mold, and animals. By taking a few precautions, serious injuries may be avoided.
"Volunteers and their sponsoring organizations have made immeasurable contributions to many communities," said Jim Stark, Director of FEMA's Louisiana Transitional Recovery Office. "Volunteering is a rewarding experience. It should also be a safe one." It is possible to minimize the risks by being aware of the hazards outlined below:
| Hazard | Description | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Extreme temperatures and humidity, working out in the sun and heat, and physical exertion can lead to heat stress, exhaustion or the more severe heat stroke. | Block out direct sun or other heat sources; use cooling devices; drink lots of water; wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes; avoid alcohol, caffeinate drinks and heavy meals. Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of a heat related illness. While waiting for help move the person to a cool, shaded area; loosen or remove heavy clothing; provide cool drinking water; fan and mist the person with water. |
| Contaminated homes and buildings | Long after water subsides, all contents and porous building materials that were submerged may be contaminated. | Wear gloves and eye protection when handling contaminated articles; wash hands with soap and water (or disinfect) frequently, especially before preparing or eating food; disinfect clothing, tools and equipment used in contaminated areas. |
| Air Quality | During restoration and demolition airborne contaminants may be released. | Wear a protective mask whenever working in a hazardous atmosphere. The appropriate type will depend on the contaminants you are exposed to and the amount of protection required. |
| Hazardous items | When cleaning storm damaged homes and buildings, hazardous chemicals and items such as firearms and ammunition may be found. These items require special handling by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) because if handled improperly they could blow-up on the spot or in a landfill at a later date. | If firearms, ammo or suspicious substances are found, clear the area and call the EPA emergency line at 1-800-401-1327 for a pick up. |
| Mold | When found in large quantities, mold has the potential to cause adverse health effects. | Use hand, eye and respiratory protection when working in a moldy environment; make sure the area is well ventilated; wash hands often; discard mold damaged materials in plastic bags. |
| Rodents | Dead and live animals can spread diseases such as rabies. | Avoid contact with stray or dead animals; if bitten or scratched, seek medical attention immediately. |
| Snakes | If you see a snake back away from it. They can strike at a distance equal to half their total length and their venom could be poisonous. | Wear heavy gloves and high boots in infested areas and watch where you put your hands and feet; keep bite victims calm to slow the spread of venom in case the snake is poisonous; seek medical attention as soon as possible; note the color and shape of the snake’s head, it will help identify the snake and treatment of the wound. |
| Insects | Mosquitoes and Fire Ants may cause infections | Wear long pants, socks and long-sleeved shirts; use insect repellent that contains DEET or Picaridin; treat bites and stings with over the counter products. |
Organizations that screen and prepare individuals for volunteer opportunities include the American Red Cross, Americorp, Nazarene Disaster Response, Southern Baptist Convention of Disaster Relief, United Methodist Committee on Relief, Lutheran Disaster Response, Operation Blessing, and Volunteers of America.
Visit the following websites for more detailed information on safety:
National Clearinghouse for Worker Safety and Training, www.wetp.org
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, www.osha.gov
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov
Greater New Orleans Disaster Recovery Partnership, Volunteer Connection, www.gnodrpvc.net
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Friday, 21-Jul-2006 15:12:12