Bioterrorism Preparedness Program

Anthrax Information and Advisories

Unusual Powder - Visible Material

(Potential Explosive Device Ruled Out)

For first emergency response personnel on scene

Consider implementing the following recommendations:

1. Initial Response - (By first emergency response personnel on scene)

• Immediately notify the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) at 946-9996. Provide RIEMA with initial information on the incident and the contact method for communicating with the local incident commander. RIEMA will organize a conference call and threat assessment with the FBI, National Response Center, RI Department of Health, and the local incident commander.
  

• Protect Yourself  

• Avoid contact with puddles, wet surfaces, etc.
• Personnel entering the exposed room(s) or area must wear full Personal Protective Equipment (Level B), including SCBA

• Secure the suspected exposed site

• Isolate the rooms(s) or area that may have been exposed
• Shut down HVAC systems that service these room(s) {Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning}

• Protect People

• Isolate potentially exposed individuals in a nearby area or room, away from any high hazard areas
• Evacuate the building or portions of the building as necessary to ensure no further exposures
• List all persons who have touched the package or envelope. Include contact information

2. Response to Potential Victim Exposure

• If the victims have visible agent on them:

• Victims should remove outer clothing and place in a plastic bag
• Victims should wash exposed skin with soap and water
• If highly contaminated (i.e. splashed), victims should shower before leaving the building or incident command should arrange for decontamination
• Consult with RI Department of Health and/or hospital personnel for recommendations for victim testing and treatment

3. Sample Collection

• If the threat assessment indicates that a sample should be collected for laboratory analysis, follow hazardous materials response procedures. Control the material as evidence and follow FBI procedures for laboratory analysis. Containment options include double bagging, steel pails, or use of hazardous materials overpacks. Remember, the containment device needs to be decontaminated prior to transfer to law enforcement for delivery to the state health lab.

October 14, 2001