disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

Until recently, most terrorist attacks involved bombs, guns, kidnappings
and hijackings, but some other forms of terrorism involve cyber attacks or
CBRN (chemical or biological agents, radiological or nuclear devices).
Cyber attacks - computer-based attacks from individuals, networking
groups, terrorist groups or nations causing severe problems for government,
businesses and public in general (sometimes causing or leading to
injury and death)
Chemical agents - poisonous vapors, liquids or solids that can kill or slow
down or weaken people, destroy livestock or crops -- can be absorbed
through the skin, swallowed or inhaled
Biological agents - infectious microbes (tiny life forms), germs or other
substances that occur naturally or are “designed” to produce illness or death
in people, animals or plants -- can be inhaled, enter through a cut in the
skin, or swallowed when eating or drinking
Radiological threat or device - a “dirty bomb” or RDD uses conventional
explosives to spread radioactive materials over a general or targeted area
Nuclear device - a bomb or missile using weapons grade uranium or
plutonium -- requires long-term sheltering from the deadly fallout. And
devices can range in size and yield from suitcase-sized nukes to
Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
Terrorism is quite an extensive topic now -- below we are listing some basic
things to do before ANY type of terrorist attack followed by several pages
explaining the National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS).
Then we will cover specific types of potential terrorist attacks shown above
in red - including what to do BEFORE, DURING and AFTER each and
where to find more information. We also threw in some tips for handling
“bomb threats” or “suspicious packages” and suggest some sheltering and
shielding tips in the event of a nuclear crisis.
Keep in mind, the best thing you can do about terrorism is prepare yourself
and your family for the unexpected, so please review this entire topic. By
learning about potential threats, we are all better prepared to know how to
react if the unthinkable happens.
Americans are very fortunate since we have a strong, talented network of
First Responders who rapidly respond to threats and incidents.
But let’s look at some statistics. The U.S. has approximately 800,000 active
Law Enforcement Officials (includes Police and Sheriff), 1.1 million
78 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325