DMT Muck and Gut Volunteer Training | Baton Rouge LA | December 2025

Opportunity Title: Muck & Gut Disaster Response Volunteer Training – Baton Rouge, LA
Date & Time: Saturday, December 20th | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Islamic Center of Baton Rouge Masjid Al-Rahman - 285 E Airport Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70806

What is Muck and Gut? 
"Muck and Gut" refers to the process of clearing flood-damaged homes by removing debris, drywall, flooring, and insulation to prevent mold growth.
IRUSA launched the Muck & Gut Program to assist communities affected by flooding and other water-related disasters. The program operates across various FEMA Regions, with trained volunteers and pre-positioned equipment in key areas. Partnerships with Crisis Cleanup, State VOADs, and state and county emergency management agencies strengthen the program’s impact. 

What to expect?
This is a 4-hour, hands-on training course with 6 training modules. You will learn:
Unit 1: Course Introduction
Overview of the Muck and Gut Program, goals of the training, and expectations for field deployment.

Unit 2: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Detailed review of essential safety gear with a live PPE display. Includes:
Leg, foot, hand, head, eye, and respiratory protection
Use of TYVEK suits and proper dressing/undressing procedures

Unit 3: Safety Plan and Communication
Covers situational awareness, team communication, and establishing a safety plan on-site.

Unit 4: Worksite Walkthrough
How to assess the worksite for hazards, including:
Downed power lines and utilities (electricity, gas, water, HVAC)
Structural safety (e.g., roof condition, water damage extent, age of home)
Waiver process and liability awareness

Unit 5: Debris Management
Best practices for debris removal:
Sorting and separating categories of debris
Proper disposal and minimizing cross-contamination

Unit 6: Muck-Out Operations
Hands-on training in:
Use of tools and equipment
Worksite preparation and setup
Muck-out procedures and demolition techniques
Decontamination processes
Drywall and TYVEK practical scenarios
You’ll practice actual muck and gut techniques in a controlled, supervised environment to build confidence and readiness.

What should you wear?
This is an active, hands-on training. Please wear:
Sturdy work boots or steel-toe boots
Jeans or heavy-duty work pants
Clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
 
Age Restriction: Due to the nature of this training, only people 18+ will be permitted to attend.

Please do not attend a volunteer project if in the last 7 days you have:
Interacted with anyone who had or has COVID-19
Had a fever
Have experienced symptoms that could be related to COVID-19
Have had COVID-19