FLAGSTAFF — The Flagstaff City Council continues to advocate against the mining of uranium and its transport in and through our region, including passing multiple resolutions and supporting federal legislation that would restrict uranium mining and transport.
While the Flagstaff City Council opposes the transport of uranium ore through our community, the City Council does not have jurisdiction over federal or state highways.
The Flagstaff Fire Department (FFD) is the primary Hazardous Materials team for the Northern AZ region. FFD staffs daily personnel who are qualified Hazardous Material Technicians. FFD also has equipment that allows technicians to detect radiation levels and address mitigation needs. City Emergency Management and FFD have emergency plans and standard operating procedures in place if an incident were to occur.
FFD is versed in the hazards associated with the shipment of uranium ore and has plans to deal with accidental circumstances. In the event of an accident, FFD would evaluate, treat, and assist with any containment issues. An outside contractor provided by the shipper would complete all clean-up processes. FFD would not perform clean-up but can utilize detection equipment to ensure the area has no measurable radioactive hazards.
The FFD previously presented to the Flagstaff City Council to outline the plans and procedures to respond to a hazardous materials incident. This presentation can be viewed HERE