National Response Framework

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Introduction
Emergencies are best handled on the lowest possible level. The National Response Framework provides guidance for unified response to emergencies. Unified response ensures all responders are working as a cohesive unit. The framework is built on scalable, flexible, and adaptable concepts. Although the national response framework provides a comprehensive guide, due to the volatility of chemical incidents, officials and emergency managers should ensure additional steps be included during the mitigation, response, and recovery phases.

Chemical Agents
Chemical agents can be classified in four possible categories. The categories include toxic industrial chemicals, incapacitating agents, riot control agents, and chemical warfare agents.
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Although CBRNE events commonly involve multiple patients and thus, on the surface, might resemble multi-casualty incidents, the unique hazards of CBRN events require specific education and training. The addition of a potential CBRN agent to any situation significantly changes the flavor of that situation and therefore the reactions of personnel at the scene.
In 1996, the Defense Against Weapons of Mass Destruction Act directed the Department of Defense to establish a domestic preparedness program to improve the ability of local, state, and federal agencies to respond to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) incidents( Cite). CBRNE materials present hazards that can be both immediate and delayed. Conducting CBRNE preparedness in one or more of the CBRNE areas does not equate to preparedness across the entire CBRNE detection spectrum. Following protocols and procedures is a cornerstone of training for first responders, however, if those procedures and protocols are designed using outdated practices or myths perpetuated by the media there can be serious
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An emergency involving a chemical component will require medical personnel to take precautionary measures to ensure their own well being while caring for those that were injured. Decontamination tents and resources may also be needed in the event of a chemical incident. Emergency managers need to understand the needs of various medical responses to ensure the resources are available.
When arriving on site of an incident first responders should look for signs of a potential chemical attack. Utilizing the specialized training on CBRNE response, first responders need to control the scene of the incident ensuring no additional contamination occurs. First responders also need to communicate with the emergency operation center of the potential hazards at the scene. Relaying of information allows for the medical staff to be prepared for the needs of the victims.
All CBRN weapons have the potential for secondary contamination of ambulances, police, fire and medical equipment, hospitals, busses, private vehicles, homes, and other people encountered by victims as they leave the scene. Proper decontamination of victims is necessary before they leave the area and spread the contamination. Ideally, decontamination stations should be set up at all mass transportation sites serving the area in the event of a chemical attack (Kramer, 2009).