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131 Field Safety Appendix B: Field Safety Be sure that you are fully aware of and follow your agencyâs safety policies and procedures as well as OSHA regulations. You should also have contact information for your departmentâs safety representatives and key contacts for emergency and medical treatment. Performing reconnaissance after emergency events can be stressful and exhausting. It is particularly important to take time to think about your personal health and alleviate stress. Basic considerations include the following: ⢠Always work in teams and stay within visual distance of each other. ⢠Wear a hard hat and personnel protective equipment for safety and identification. ⢠Be alert for falling hazards. ⢠Be aware of your surroundings including traffic, terrain, steep slopes, and confined space. ⢠Have a first aid kit ready. ⢠Drink plenty of water. ⢠Eat healthy foods and have additional food with you in case you are working in areas where there are no stores, they are not open, or where supplies are limited. (It is best to purchase food outside the impacted area, if possible, to not compete with residents in the area for limited supplies). ⢠Be sure to get plenty of rest before (if possible) and after each day performing PDA. ⢠When returning home or to lodging after PDA inspections, take time to relax and alleviate stress. ⢠Take brief breaks from the work, as needed. ⢠Frequently talk with others to help alleviate stress. ⢠Keep a vigilant eye out for debris all around you while walking (above, below, and to the sides). ⢠Do not fill out forms or look at the smart tablet (or other device) while walking.
