Which secondary prevention activities are carried out during a search and rescue operation?

Monitoring local water and air quality is a crucial secondary prevention activity during a search and rescue operation. In the aftermath of a disaster, the environment can be compromised due to debris, contamination, or changes in natural resources. By monitoring these essential elements, responders can assess the safety of the environment for both survivors and rescue personnel. This activity helps to ensure that individuals are not exposed to harmful pollutants or unsafe water, reducing the risk of further health issues and enhancing the safety of ongoing operations.

Setting up a community shelter, implementing evacuation procedures, and beginning post-disaster recovery are important actions, but they align more with immediate response efforts or recovery stages rather than the key secondary prevention focus of monitoring environmental hazards amidst ongoing rescue operations.