What should responders do if they suspect they are contaminated?

Responders who suspect they are contaminated should follow established decontamination protocols immediately because these protocols are specifically designed to mitigate the effects of contamination and prevent further exposure to hazardous materials. Timely decontamination is crucial in protecting the responder's health, as it aids in removing harmful substances that may adhere to their skin, clothing, or equipment.

Established protocols typically include procedures such as removing protective clothing in a safe manner, utilizing water or specialized decontamination solutions to wash off contaminants, and ensuring that the decontamination site is secure to prevent the spread of hazardous materials. Prompt action can also help prevent secondary contamination of the environment and protect others who may come into contact with the responder.

While reporting to the nearest hospital or waiting for further instructions might be appropriate under certain circumstances, these actions should not replace immediate decontamination efforts, which are critical in situations involving potential chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear contaminants. Moreover, removing all protective gear without proper decontamination procedures may lead to spread contamination or exposure to harmful agents.