DISASTER! - Homeland Security and Emergency Management ...

BEFORE A CHEMICAL ATTACK:Watch & listen for signs - Many chemical agents can cause watery eyes,choking, trouble breathing, coughing or twitching. If you see or hear a lotof people doing this or see a bunch of birds, fish or critters sick or dead, itshould raise a red flag. Learn about some common potentially hazardouschemical agents (see previous pages) and stay current by listening to radioand TV to hear what local authorities tell people to do -- and DO it!Report strange things - Be aware of your surroundings -- watch for strangeor suspicious packages, luggage or backpacks ... or spray trucks or cropdusters in weird places at strange times ... and report suspicious activities tolocal authorities.Make a plan - Review Section 1 to develop a Family Emergency Plan andDisaster Supplies Kit. Some key items include a battery-powered radio(with extra batteries), food and drinking water, duct tape, plastic and scissors,first aid kit, and sanitation items (soap, extra water and bleach).Pick a room - It could take authorities time to determine what (if any) agentwas used so pick a room in advance your family could use if told to“shelter-in-place” for several hours. It’s best to pick an internal room whereyou could block out air IF told to do so. To save time consider measuringand cutting plastic sheets in advance for openings (vents, windows, anddoors). Remember, toilets / drains may be vented meaning outside aircomes in constantly or when flushed / open (depends on design) - in caseyou’re using a bathroom as a safe room.Calculate air for room - Keep in mind people can stay in a sealed off roomfor only so long (or you’ll run out of air.) FEMA suggests 10 square feet offloor space per person (like 5ft x 2ft / 1.5m x 0.6m ) will provide enoughair to prevent carbon dioxide buildup for up to 5 hours.Be ready to evacuate - Listen to local authorities and leave if you are toldto evacuate. (see EVACUATION)DURING A CHEMICAL ATTACK:During any type of chemical attack, local authorities will instruct thepublic on where to go and exactly what to do if exposed to an agent (whichmay require immediate attention with professional medical staff).Watch for signs - If you see or hear a lot of people choking, coughing ortwitching or see a bunch of sick or dead critters - leave area quickly!96 www.itsadisaster.net or call 1-888-999-4325