How should the area be treated after an explosion?
As a crime scene — don’t disturb anything; protect evidence.
What is important for evidence at an explosion scene?
Preserve it — keep it safe and avoid moving or touching items.
What does multi-jurisdictional response mean?
Multiple agencies work together under one command.
What is the incident command role?
One unified command coordinates all responders and decisions.
What are high-order explosives?
Powerful explosives like nitroglycerin, dynamite, TNT, or plastic explosives.
Give examples of high-order explosive components.
Nitroglycerin, dynamite, TNT, ammonium nitrate/fuel oil, plastic explosives.
What are low-order explosives?
Less powerful explosives like petroleum products or gunpowder.
Can low-order explosives become more dangerous?
Yes — if they’re contained or confined, they can act like high-order explosives.
What does the severity of blast injuries depend on?
Several factors like device type, delivery, and environment.
How does the device type and amount affect injuries?
The kind and size of the explosive determine how strong the blast is.
How does the delivery method affect injuries?
It depends on how the explosive is spread—fire, explosion, or other means.
Why does the environment matter in a blast?
Closed spaces or underwater areas increase blast pressure and injuries.
How does distance affect blast injury?
The closer you are to the explosion, the more severe the injuries.
What role do barriers play during a blast?
Walls or vehicles can block and reduce the blast impact.
What are environmental hazards after a blast?
Debris, fire, and chemicals.
Why is structural collapse dangerous after a blast?
Falling buildings can trap or crush people.
What causes a primary blast injury?
The blast wave (over-pressurization).
Which organs are most affected by primary blast injuries?
Air-filled organs like the ears, lungs, and GI tract.
What are common primary blast injuries?
TM rupture, hearing loss, blast lung, abdominal bleeding, and concussion/TBI.
What causes a secondary blast injury?
Flying debris or bomb fragments.
What kind of damage does a secondary blast injury cause?
Penetrating or blunt wounds, including hidden eye injuries.
What causes a tertiary blast injury?
Being thrown by the blast wind.
What are common tertiary blast injuries?
Fractures, amputations, and open or closed brain injuries.
What causes a quaternary blast injury?
Other factors like burns, smoke, or worsening of chronic illnesses.
