Where should a decontamination site NOT be located?

A decontamination site should be carefully located to minimize risks and ensure the safety of both responders and the public. When considering this, placing a decontamination site near waterways and drainage systems is deemed inappropriate. This is primarily because contaminants can easily flow into these bodies of water or drainage systems, leading to potential contamination of the local water supply, ecosystems, and larger environments. This could pose significant health risks not only to the individuals involved in the decontamination process but also to the surrounding community.

In contrast, decontamination sites should ideally be situated on flat surfaces away from population centers to reduce exposure to the public, in open areas with good ventilation to disperse any airborne contaminants effectively, and adjacent to emergency medical facilities to facilitate quick medical assistance if needed. This strategic placement ensures that the decontamination process is safer and more effective for all parties involved.