What PPM reading distinguishes a CO Incident from a CO Emergency?
CO readings greater than 9 PPM or the presence of symptoms constitute a CO Emergency.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 4.2.1 / 4.2.2
When must the Incident Commander request the utility company?
When CO levels exceed 9 PPM, a gas appliance is shut down, occupants exhibit symptoms, or the IC determines it is necessary.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 4.1.5
At what CO level is re-occupancy permitted?
When CO levels are reduced to 9 PPM or less following mitigation and ventilation.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 4.4.5 / 4.5.4
What PPE is required during ALL CO investigations?
SCBA shall be worn at all CO investigations and used at all CO emergencies.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 4.2.5
What radio signal must be transmitted for injuries or fatalities related to CO?
Signal 10-45 must be immediately transmitted to the Borough Dispatcher.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 5.1.2
Why is CO considered especially dangerous compared to other gases?
It provides no early warning signs and binds to hemoglobin with 210 times the affinity of oxygen, preventing oxygen transport.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 3.2 / 3.9
Where should an Engine Company’s second CO meter be carried and why?
With the CFR equipment attached to the O₂ bag to ensure availability during medical responses.
Haz Mat 4 – CO 2.6
What is the single most important action in effective decontamination?
Rapid physical removal of the hazardous material from the victim.
Haz-Mat 7 Decontamination – 1.1
Why must outer clothing be removed before water application during mass decon?
Because clothing can trap contaminants that off-gas, and applying water first may drive liquid contaminants deeper into clothing and skin, increasing absorption.
Haz-Mat 7 Decontamination– 2.3
Approximately how much contamination is removed by clothing removal alone?
Up to 90 percent.
Haz-Mat 7 Decontamination – 2.3
What is the recommended operating pressure for fog nozzles during mass decontamination?
50–80 psi.
Haz-Mat 7 – Decontamination 2.4.3 / 2.4.4
Who should the IC designate as Decontamination Control Officer when available?
A Battalion Chief.
Haz-Mat 7 –Decontamination 2.2
Why is mass decontamination considered a life-saving operation?
Because it rapidly reduces exposure time to hazardous materials, limiting dose and preventing injury.
Haz-Mat 7 Decontamination – 2.4.10 / 2.4.11
Why must members staffing early decon operations wear SCBA?
Because inhalation is the primary route of exposure, and SCBA provides adequate respiratory protection against airborne contaminants.
Haz-Mat 7 – 2.4.10
What is the primary hazard to first responders at a chemical suicide incident?
Inhalation of toxic or oxygen-displacing gases.
Haz-Mat 11 2. Chemical suicide
Why should odor not be relied upon during a suspected chemical suicide?
Sense of smell rapidly becomes desensitized, making detection unreliable.
Haz-Mat 11 §3.2 Notes(a) Chemical Suicide
What PPE is required for FDNY members operating at a chemical suicide incident?
Full PPE with SCBA.
Haz-Mat 11 §4.1 Chemical Suicide
What hoseline configuration is recommended at a Chemical Suicide and why?
Charged hoseline with fog nozzle for decon, vapor dispersion, and fire control.
Haz-Mat 11 §4.1 Chemical Suicide
Why should containers at a chemical suicide scene not be disturbed?
Disturbance may increase chemical mixing and toxic gas release.
Haz-Mat 11 §4.1 Chemical Suicide
What must EMS ensure before placing a patient into an ambulance at a chemical suicide incident ?
Complete decontamination to prevent off-gassing in the patient compartment.
Haz-Mat 11 §4.2 Chemical Suicide
What is the FIRST action taken by first-arriving units at a hazardous materials incident?
Identification of the involved substance.
HM-02 4.1 Fire Tactics and Procedures
List the five methods by which hazardous materials enter the body.
- Inhalation (breathing)
- Skin Contact (absorption)
- Ingestion (swallowing)
- Puncture/wound
- Eyes.
HM-02 3.1-Fire Tactics and Procedures
Where is the bill of lading found on a TRUCK?
In the cab, within reach of the driver.
HM-02 4.4 Fire Tactics and Procedures
When must the Hazardous Materials Unit be called for railroad tank cars?
In ALL derailments, even if no damage is apparent.
HM-02 7 Fire Tactics and Procedure
