Disaster Preparedness and Response Flashcards

Under the National Incident Management System (NIMS), how many personnel should a single supervisor ideally manage during a disaster operation?

Answer: 3 to 7

NIMS recommends a span of control of 3 to 7 subordinates per supervisor, with 5 being optimal, to maintain effective oversight during emergency operations.

A rescue team enters a tornado-damaged barn and finds horses with lacerations from debris. Which injury type should be triaged as 'immediate' (life-threatening)?

Answer: Arterial bleeding from a deep neck laceration

Arterial bleeding is life-threatening and requires immediate intervention to prevent fatal blood loss, making it the highest triage priority.

What does the acronym 'RACES' stand for in the context of emergency communications?

Answer: Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service

RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) is a public service organization of amateur radio operators who provide communications support during civil emergencies.

An animal rescue team is operating in a neighborhood with a gas leak. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is most critical before entry?

Answer: Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or supplied-air respirator

A gas leak environment requires supplied-air protection because the atmosphere may be immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH), and air-purifying respirators are insufficient.

Which of the following best describes the role of a 'forward operating base' (FOB) in a large-scale animal rescue operation?

Answer: A temporary field location closer to the disaster zone for coordinating rescue teams

A forward operating base (FOB) is a temporary facility positioned near the incident area to provide closer coordination, supply distribution, and support for field rescue teams.

What is the recommended action when a rescued animal's owner cannot be located within the holding period established by local ordinance?

Answer: Follow the organization's disposition protocols, which may include adoption or transfer

After the legally required holding period, organizations follow established disposition protocols—which may include adoption, rescue transfer, or other legal options—to responsibly manage unclaimed animals.

During a disaster debriefing, a responder reports experiencing intrusive thoughts and difficulty sleeping following exposure to animal suffering. This is most consistent with:

Answer: Signs of compassion fatigue or acute stress reaction requiring follow-up support

Intrusive thoughts and sleep disturbance following trauma exposure are hallmark signs of compassion fatigue or acute stress reaction, and responders should be referred to mental health support resources.