Fire Department to Get Mobile Library: System Will Help Firefighters Facing Hazardous Materials
By Joanie Baker, Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.
Jan. 14–The Owensboro Fire Department recently received a $21,000 federal grant to purchase equipment that will provide it with a mobile digital library on hazardous materials.
Through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency, the department will receive the funds to purchase a PEAC-WMD Incident Command Kit that consists of a laptop and three PDAs that can exchange information.
The devices are all integrated with a database of information ranging from chemical warfare agents to pesticides and common farming agents.
The models provide quick access to first responders who may come up upon an active methamphetamine lab or a derailed train that is potentially carrying hazardous materials.
“This grant places the Owensboro Fire Department on the cutting edge by providing universal protection for our community,” Battalion Chief Steve Leonard said.
Battalion Chief David McCrady said the technology allows firefighters to enter the chemical they are approaching and then gives them the steps to combat the problem.
PEAC-WMD gives responders safe standoff distances from a known explosive or radioactive spill, ignition temperatures and outcomes of chemical reactions. McCrady said it also tells firefighters what type of protective gear and materials they should utilize when approaching situations involving hazardous materials.
The main processor, or ruggedized laptop, will be stationed at an incident command post, McCrady said. The other handheld devices will be distributed during an emergency or disaster to the subcommanders of designated units.
The handheld devices and laptop can communicate with each other and are capable of searching for symptoms based on key words. PEAC-WMD also has a glossary of HAZMAT and weapons of mass destruction terms.
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Copyright (c) 2008, Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.
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