Contents
What Is a Disaster?
The Four-Step Preparedness Plan
Disaster Supplies Kit
Disaster Insurance
Earthquakes
Winter Storms and Extreme Cold
Extreme Heat
Tornadoes
Hurricanes
Floods
Fires and Wildfires
Blackouts
Terrorism
How to Plan for Your Pets
Post-Disaster Guidelines
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Terrorism
The World Trade Center attacks on September 11th, 2001, awakened Americans to the prospect of terrorism on domestic soil. Terrorism is defined as the use of force or violence against people or property in a way that violates U.S. law. Terrorism is used to:
- Create fear in the public
- Get publicity for a cause
- Make citizens feel as though their government cannot protect them
Acts of terrorism can take many forms, such as:
- Assassinations
- Kidnappings
- Hijackings
- Bombings or bomb scares
- Cyberattacks
- Chemical, biological, nuclear, or radiological attacks
Some locations are at a higher risk for terrorist attacks. These high-risk locations include:
- Large cities
- Military and civilian government facilities
- International airports
- High-profile landmarks
- Large public gatherings
- Corporate centers
- Utilities
- Food and water supply centers
If you live in a high-risk area, consider stocking up on these extra supplies:
- Scissors
- Duct tape
- Dust mask
- Plastic sheeting (this is used, along with the duct tape, to cover doors, windows, and vents if you need to keep out harmful chemicals or dust; you can precut the plastic to fit over the openings)
For more information on acts of terrorism, go to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security website, www.dhs.gov,
and click on “Citizens.” There you’ll find links on safety, security, travel, and more.
General Guidelines
Acts of terrorism are frightening and unpredictable, but there are ways to be prepared. Primarily, always be alert by doing the following:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Know where exits are, especially in high-risk locations
- Report suspicious activity or unattended packages to the authorities
- Never accept packages from strangers
- Alert authorities if you feel uncomfortable
In addition to watching the news, reading the newspaper, and being generally aware of what’s going on in the world, pay attention to the National Threat Level, the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory system that gauges the risk of a terrorist attack. If the level is set to red or orange, it means that the government is on high alert.
Explosions
Explosions are loud, chaotic, and frightening. If one occurs near or in your building or home, try to keep your wits about you and follow these guidelines:
- Get out as soon as possible. Exit the building via the stairs, not the elevators. Watch for unstable floors or falling debris.
- If debris is falling, protect yourself under a sturdy desk or table.
- Try to stay away from windows or glass doors. They can shatter easily.
- Don’t make phone calls.
- Don’t waste time. Leave your personal items behind.
Biological Threats
A biological threat occurs when damaging organisms or toxins are released with the intention of harming people, livestock, or crops. There are three basic groups of biological agents: bacteria, viruses, and toxins. They can be released into a community via:
- Aerosols, which are fine mists that spray into the air
- The infection of animals that could potentially carry the disease to humans
- The contamination of food and water
Signs of contamination can be difficult to detect until authorities have determined the agent and symptoms that
accompany infection. The best thing to do is stay informed.
Chemical Threats
A chemical threat entails the release of poisonous agents that have a toxic effect on people, animals, and plants. These agents can take the form of aerosols, liquids, solids, or vapors, and can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of coordination
- Nausea
- Burning or irritation in the eyes, nose, or throat
The good news is that chemical weapons are difficult to produce and are rarely lethal.
What to Do in the Event of a Biological or Chemical Attack
In the event of a biological or chemical attack, follow these general guidelines:
- Stay informed. Listen or watch for updates about the proper course of action.
- If you can locate the source of the attack, move away from it. If you’re outside, move upwind.
- Seek shelter in a safe room. Ideally, this is a room with no windows.
- Close all doors and turn off air conditioning or other ventilation if possible.
If you think you or someone near you has been exposed:
- Remove and bag your clothes. Cut off your clothing rather than pulling it over your head.
- Wash with soap and water. Flush your eyes with water and, if you wear glasses, soak them in a solution of bleach and water.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
For more information on biological and chemical threats, consult the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at www.bt.cdc.gov.
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