In the aftermath of a disaster, everyday citizens can play a vital role in neighborhood recovery efforts by using basic, accessible rescue tools. While first responders bring specialized equipment, local residents equipped with simple tools can make a meaningful impact.
Safety of the Scene
Working in a disaster affected area can be extremely dangerous. Wait until the immediate hazard has passed before attempting to enter a building after a disaster and only when emergency services have declared it safe to do so.
Personal Protective Equipment
Having the correct personal protective equipment is a prerequisite to working in a post-disaster environment. The following are considered the essentials:
• Construction hard hat
• Protective Eyewear (safety goggles)
• Dust mask (use surgical mask or N-95 mask)
• Leather gloves
• Closed toed shoes with heavy soles
• Kneepads (critical if crawling through debris)
A construction helmet is inexpensive protection against falling objects and debris. Eye protection should provide wrap around protection and be made of a shatter-free material. Dust masks must be tight fitting and provide a good seal against dust and debris that is abundantly present; avoid cheap paper filter masks that provide a poor fit. Leather gloves provide basic protection against glass, metal, and other sharp objects. Close-toed shoes with heavy soles will provide protection against nails and glass in the disaster zone.
Essential Tools
There are a handful of inexpensive tools to keep on hand to aid in any emergency rescue or recovery response.
• Lighting/Flashlights (make sure your batteries are charged)
• Multitool
• Crowbar
• Pocket Knife
• Gas and Water Shut Off Tool
• Duct Tape
• Utility Rope
Things to Consider: To effectively assist in recovery and response, it is best to be trained beforehand. Consider creating or joining a neighborhood disaster preparedness group or looking for opportunities to train as a member of a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Even in a rural or small community, there are opportunities to receive training for rescue response.
Credit: llu.edu, emergencykits.com, servewashington.wa.gov
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