A possible terrorist attack may take several forms, including a biological, chemical or radiological incident, an explosion or even a nuclear event.

When the first sign of a threat or event is the occurrence of human illness or injury, it is the public health disease investigators, physicians, microbiologists, paramedics, fire and law enforcement personnel who are the first line of defense.

It is important for you to know that public safety personnel, public health services and emergency medical systems have years of experience, and a close relationship which ensures the highest level of services in the event of a terrorist threat. Should additional resources be necessary, we know that we can call upon our neighboring counties, military partners and other resources. For example, if needed, large supplies of vaccines and antibiotics will be made available to our community.

In the event of an attack, government officials will instruct residents on what actions they are taking and what actions the public should take. It's important that you remain calm and cooperate fully with local officials.

In the event of a biological, chemical or radiological incident, instructions on personal protection, decontamination and health warnings will be provided by public health and safety officials through broadcasts over radio and television, as well as in the print media.

3. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

BEFORE

The public also has a role in reducing the impact of terrorism on their lives.

Learn about the nature of terrorism

• Terrorists look for visible targets where they can avoid detection, such as international airports, large cities, major public events, resorts and high-profile landmarks.
• Report any suspicious activities to your local law enforcement agency.

Adapt, as appropriate, the same techniques used to prepare for earthquakes, fires and other emergencies.

• Be prepared and observe your environment. Terrorists most often strike with little or no warning.
• Use caution when you travel. Observe and report unusual activity. Keep your packages with you at all times. Do not accept packages from strangers.
• Locate stairways and emergency exits and develop plans for evacuating buildings and crowded public areas.
• Learn about the emergency response plan at your child's school.
• Develop a family emergency plan.

If you live or work in multilevel buildings:

• Identify the location of fire exits and review and practice emergency evacuation procedures.
• Locate and maintain fire extinguishers in working order and learn how to use them.
• Obtain training in first aid and CPR.

Assemble and maintain an emergency supply kit for your home that includes those items listed in this web page below.

• Also, compile essential personal emergency preparedness items for your car and workspace.

DURING

What should you do?

• Remain calm.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Activate your Family Preparedness Plan.
• Stay informed.
• If an evacuation is ordered, follow the instructions of local officials regarding evacuation routes and the location of shelters.
• If shelter-in-place is recommended, local officials will provide instructions on necessary actions.
• Do not leave your sheltered location or return to the evacuated area until it is deemed safe to do so by local officials.

If there's an explosion:

• Remain calm. Take cover under a desk or sturdy table if ceiling tiles, bookshelves, their contents, etc., begin to fall.
• Exit the building as quickly as possible.

If there's a fire:

• Stay low to the floor at all times and exit the building
as quickly as possible. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect near the ceiling first.

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4. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW - Continued

 • Use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth.
• Use the back of your hand to feel closed doors. If the door is not hot, brace yourself against the door and open it slowly. Do not open the door if it is hot. Seek another escape route.
• Use appropriate fire exits, not elevators.

AFTER

If you are trapped in debris:

• If possible, use a flashlight or whistle to signal rescuers regarding your location.
• Stay in your area so that you don't kick up dust. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.
• Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are.
• Shout only as a last resort—shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

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5. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW - Continued

PROTECTIVE ACTIONS

Protective actions are actions we take to safeguard our family members and ourselves from harm. The most common emergency protective actions are evacuation and shelter-in-place.

• Evacuation means to leave the area of actual or potential hazard.
• Shelter-in-place means to stay indoors. This includes additional precautions such as turning off air-conditioning, ventilation systems and closing all windows and doors.

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

Maintaining an emergency supply kit is a good idea for any emergency. Individuals and organizations should be prepared to be without assistance for a minimum of 72 hours.

• Battery-powered radio, flashlights, batteries
• Whistle
• First aid kit and manual
• Hard hats, work gloves, goggles and dust masks
• Duct tape and plastic sheeting
• Fluorescent tape to rope off dangerous areas
• Water
• Food (canned, no-cook, packaged snacks)
• Manual can opener
• Cash and credit cards
• Change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Fire extinguisher (A-B-C type)
• Infant and feminine hygiene supplies
• Essential medicines and eyeglasses
• Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of doctors and pharmacy
• Food and water for pets
• Large plastic bags for trash, waste, water protection
• Toilet paper and paper towels
• Charcoal grill or camp stove for outdoor cooking.

The front of many telephone directories contain a handy First Aid and Survival Guide.