Fentanyl and fentanyl analogs are quickly becoming the most common high hazard response. However, there are many ways that the overall risk can be managed. Recognizing and understanding the threat is critical to determining the appropriate response. Using the known facts about fentanyl and its analogues (such as solubility, toxicity, degradation pathways, and others), operational response protocols will be presented for detection, identification, protection from, decontamination, and destruction of fentanyl-based materials. These simple response protocols and resultant example operational guidelines will assist responders in safely and effectively responding to this high hazard threat.

Dr. Christina Baxter is the CEO of Emergency Response TIPS, LLC which provides practical, evidence based solutions for emergency response through the development of next generation tools for enhanced situational awareness and responder safety; instructional design materials for instructor-led and web-based programs in the areas of CBRNE, hazardous materials, and clandestine laboratory response; technology transition guidance for emerging technologies; and, emergency planning for hazardous materials and emergency response. Prior to forming Emergency Response TIPS, LLC, Dr. Baxter was the CBRNE Program Manager for the Department of Defense’s Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office where she was responsible for identifying capability gaps in the combating terrorism CBRNE mission space, illuminating or developing innovative solutions, and delivering them to military, interagency, and law enforcement operators in the field as rapidly as possible.