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Poisonous Plants

 

 

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac  

These plants belong to a plant genus called Toxicodendron. They contain a toxic resin called Urushiol that causes the unpleasant effect in humans.  Interestingly, the urushiol compound is not a defensive measure for the plant, but instead helps it to retain water.

Image
three leaves of different poisonous plants.

In general, poison ivy grows east of the Rocky Mountains, poison oak grows west of the Rocky Mountains, and poison sumac grows in the southeastern United States. Of note, the plants may look different depending on the season and the area where they are growing.

The most common reaction from exposure to this resin is an itchy red rash on the skin. The rash often includes fluid-filled small blisters called vesicles. The vesicles do not contain urushiol, and the rupture of the vesicles does not spread the rash. The rash is not contagious. In a first-time exposure, the appearance of skin lesions is common within 24 to 48 hours. For someone who has a previous exposure the rash generally appears sooner and often is more severe.

Image
a forearm with rash from poisonous plants.

Urushiol is very heat stable and can aerosolize and effect the lungs if the plant is burned. Wildland firefighters should avoid this whenever possible. If present in an area with large amounts of these plants, plan to avoid them, especially during combustion.

Once exposed, the area should be washed. A person with an average allergic response can prevent an immune reaction by washing off the resin within 20 minutes with room temperature water and mild soap if available. The efficacy of rinsing the affected area seems to diminish as time passes.  Clothing should be carefully removed and washed thoroughly. Remember, the urushiol on clothes can last for days and cause repeated exposure until removed (laundered). 
See 6 Minutes for Safety – Dirty Nomex

Further treatment can include some over the counter itch creams and keeping the area clean. Try to avoid scratching as much as possible to reduce the chance of infection from bacteria on your hands and nails. For severe reactions or large portions of the skin, seek an evaluation by a medical professional as a prescribed medication may be beneficial.

Discussion Questions:

  • In what local and geographic areas are you likely to encounter poisonous plants?
  • What is your crew policy for engaging fire or reevaluating tactics when poisonous plants are present?
  • Have a conversation: Who on you crew has a serious reaction to poisonous plants? Who has never been exposed? What soaps and treatment do you carry?
  • What are some trigger points for seeking medical attention or taking time off the fireline to wash and heal. ...Location of the rash? ...Size of blisters? ...All of crew’s clothing covered in oils?

References:

Category
Firefighter Health and First Aid

6MFS Suggestion Form


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NEW! S-390, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended) Available Now

Date: December 22, 2025
Questions about RT-130? 
Please contact: Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the new S-390, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal.

This third course in the series combines online and instructor-led training components aimed at individuals who are involved in planning, managing, and executing wildland fire and prescribed burn operations; who require a thorough understanding of fire behavior calculations to enhance effectiveness and safety. This includes students who require the knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of a Type 3 Incident Commander (ICT3), Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS), or Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2).

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References:

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NWCG is excited to announce the release of the new Ransom Road Fire Module to RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR).

This module features a firsthand account from Rob Lee, official reports, and animated maps of the Ransom Road Fire which occurred on June 8, 1981, in Florida's Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

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Call for Nominations: Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award

Date: December 11, 2025
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Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

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