b'INCIDENT REHABILITATION (REHAB) physical symptoms such as a chief complaint of shortness of Its essential to provide rehabilitation and medical monitoringbreath, poor gait, confusion, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, at the scene to establish the mental and physical conditioncramps, or aches and pains. All symptoms will be thoroughly of personnel participating in tactical operations and training.evaluated by the appropriate EMS level of care.Carcinogens can be absorbed, inhaled and ingested at a firePersonnel not working in the IDLH but within the hazard zone scene. Proper decontamination and rehabilitation procedures(pump operators, IC, etc.) should be observed and periodically reduce exposures to carcinogens during these critical times. monitored for potential exposure to toxic gases and/or heat Rehab must be located in a place that allows enough spaceand cold stress.and protection from adverse environmental conditions includingIn warm weather, removal of turnout gear is necessary to fire, smoke, exhaust, and extreme heat and cold. An idealallow the bodys temperature-regulating mechanism to function location would be out of direct sight of the working incident, withproperly. The duration of the ventilation process will depend on room for separate areas to remove PPE, a rest and evaluationthe workload and atmospheric air temperatures.area, a treatment area, and access to a restroom when possible.Tarps for shade and electric fans to provide airflow may be Personnel are to rotate through rehab after an IDLH worknecessary during hot weather, and other appropriate shelter period of 2/30s or 1/45-minute SCBA cylinder or anytime theshould be utilized during inclement weather.environment, workload and/or atmospheric conditions indicateFluid replacement is necessary to maintain the high metabolic the probability of injury or temperature-related illness todemand placed on fire fighters during emergency operations. It personnel. This includes, but is not limited to, working fires andis recommended that members drink one liter of water per hour hazmat incidents when encapsulating suits are worn.for several hours to replace fluids lost due to dehydration. After Before entering rehab, fire fighters are to use a personalone hour, electrolyte additives should be added to the water hand-washing station with water, hand soap and towels. In lieusource (NFPA 1584).of soap and water, disposable wipes can be used for hands,Caffeinated beverages and energy drinks should be avoided face and neck. during emergency incidents due to their diuretic effect. High Each time a fire fighter enters rehab, an evaluation will occurusage of energy drinks also has been linked to cardiac issues.for the following: name, time and unit; mental status; and any 17'