DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

Remember, many chemical weapons - or chemical warfare - have beenaround since World War I ... it’s unfortunate we have to even discuss it buttry not to let this topic frighten you. Educate yourselves about the types andwhere to find more information so you are prepared to react in the event ofa chemical threat or attack.How could chemical agents be used in an attack?There are several ways chemical agents could be spread:• Vapors / Gas / Aerosols - spread into air by a bomb orfrom aircraft, boats or vehicles -- could spread for miles• Liquids - could be released into the air, water or soil ortouched by people or animals• Solids - could be absorbed into water, soil or touchedSome chemical agents can remain in the environment and cause problemslong after they are released. Keep in mind, both the Center for DiseaseControl and Environmental Protection Agency are workingclosely with various Departments of Defense and Energy and officialsaround the country to monitor systems and security and develop plans. Thesame goes for Health Canada and other Canadian government agencies.In the event of a public health emergency, officials will tell people whatactions need to be taken. But learn as much as you can before a crisis tohelp alleviate some stress, fear and problems.What are the names of some chemical agents and what can they do?According to the CDC’s Emergency Preparedness and Response site, thereare many types of chemical agents - too many to list here. We’re only mentioningseveral common agents in alphabetical order, but there are manyothers we are not covering that could potentially be used. Always listen toauthorities for instructions in the event of a chemical threat or attack.BZ (Incapacitating) - and other stun agents (LSD, etc.) disrupt the centralnervous system causing confusion, short-term memory loss and immobility(means you can’t move or are incapacitated).How it spreads: BZ could be released by a bomb or sprayed into the airas an aerosol but has been proven unpredictable if used outdoors.Signs & Symptoms: Depends on how person is exposed to BZ and variesby person -- basically it screws with your nervous system causing confusion,dream-like feelings or strange visions (called hallucinations), dilationof the pupils (means pupils bigger than normal), slurred speech, and loss ofmotor skills (can’t move). It can also slow down breathing and heart rate.www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-432589