Hundreds of California firefighters have been deployed to Texas to aid in the respone to the catastrophic flooding wrought by Hurricane Harvey and its aftermath.

If you're deployed as part of swift water rescue, USAR or for other responses, don't forget to document your exposures through PER (www.peronline.org).

Exposure Risks

• Biohazards -- effluent from sewers; household chemicals and pesticides (washed into the water flow); bacteria, airborne molds & mildews (from structure entry)
• Hydrocarbons -- gasoline, diesel fuel (in water); airborne natural gas (when entering structures)
• Asbestos -- Older structures at high risk of asbestos displacement and aerial exposure.
• Medical exposures -- Individuals rescued at elevated risk of infections, blood and urine exposure, needle sticks (or other "sharps" that can pierce protective wear or wetsuit), other unknown risks.
• Other unknown toxins -- As you response, make note of any particular substances or products that are likely toxins. These can be recorded in text entry sections on the PER system.

Medical Effects: Even if you can't pinpoint an exposure, you can ID medical effects:

• Physical symptoms: Burning eyes, nausea, dizziness, coughing, headaches, nose and lung irritation or bleeding. 
• Emotional impacts: Rescue and recovery efforts can leave emotional scars. Report any mood shifts or lingering effects from heartbreaking experiences. You can edit your reports any time if the effects continue.

If there's LTE service where you are and you've got a few seconds, you can report right on the spot. More likely, you'll want to record them a little later when you have a moment. It takes only a few minutes with the new PER online. Take note and report at your first opportunity. 

If you've already activated your account in the new PER, LOG IN to report exposures.

If you're a past user and haven't activated in the new system, ACTIVATE YOUR ACCOUNT for immediate access.

If you're new to Personal Exposure Reporting, CLICK HERE to learn more and sign up.