NEW ALBANY POLICE DEPARTMENT - New Albany, Ohio

In cases of a call to duty, the on-duty dispatcher(s) may be utilized to contact as many
personnel as required by the supervisor in charge of the incident. The news media may
be used as an alternate means of communicating the message to off-duty personnel.
C. Primary and Alternative Assembly Areas
Unless otherwise specified, all personnel will report to the Police Department for
assignment in the uniform of the day when called in during special circumstances.
Some situations may require the direct deployment of personnel to the scene of the
occurrence. If alternative locations or command posts are utilized, a police supervisor
should be assigned to that location to receive police personnel as they arrive and provide
for their needs.
D. Transportation Requirements
The supervisor in charge will assess the transportation needs of the situation and take
action to obtain appropriate transportation resources to fulfill these needs. This action
may require utilization of buses from the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus
Police, Ohio State Highway Patrol, or commercial carrier such as the Central Ohio Transit
Authority (COTA).
18.1.9 Hazardous/Infectious Materials Incidents
The first priority at the scene of a hazardous material incident is to prevent/limit exposure to the
public and responding officers. The first officer on the scene shall approach cautiously. If
possible, the officer should maintain his/her distance upon arrival to the area and should assess
the scene through the use of binoculars. The first officer on the scene shall take immediate
action if deemed necessary, keeping safety in mind. The O.I.C. from the Fire Department will
have ultimate authority over hazardous material scenes. Upon direction from the Fire
Department, Police Department personnel on the scene will implement and coordinate any
evacuation caused by a hazardous material incident.
A. Definitions
Hazardous material is any substance in a quantity, form, or combination that may pose
an unreasonable risk to individuals, property, or the environment.
Infectious material is any material capable of causing infection that contaminates or is
capable of being transmitted without actual contact.
B. Officers Responding to Hazardous Materials Scenes
If there is a gas cloud, liquids leaking, or a fire, approach the immediate scene only if
absolutely necessary and only from the upwind side.
If necessary, obtain information about the material from those who work with it, from
placards, or any other source of information. Do not attempt to determine the type of
material if doing so will endanger personal health or safety.
Some hazardous materials are odorless and/or colorless. If there is any doubt about the
material, do not enter the area.
Any officer experiencing a physical reaction (i.e. difficulty breathing, lightheadedness) will
immediately leave the area, seek medical attention, and notify the on-scene supervisor
and the Dispatch Center.
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