Overview

 

STEP 3

 

Be Informed about what might happen

 

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling a supply kit and developing a family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or man-made emergency. However there are important differences among potential terrorist threats that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take.

 

Specific Terrorist Threats

 

A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other substances that can make you sick. Many agents must be inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin or eaten to make you sick.

 

A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison people and the environment.

 

A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and ground surfaces for miles around.

 

A radiation threat or "Dirty Bomb" is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area.

 

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. Above all, stay calm, be patient and think before you act. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected.

 

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