FACT SHEET: TERRORISM
BEFORE
- Learn about the nature of terrorism.
- Terrorists often choose targets that offer little danger to themselves and areas with relatively easy public access.
- Foreign terrorists look for visible targets where they can avoid detection before or after an attack such as international airports, large cities, major international events, resorts, and high-profile landmarks.
- Learn about the different types of terrorist weapons including explosives, kidnappings, hijackings, arson, and shootings.
- Prepare to deal with a terrorist incident by adapting many of the same techniques used to prepare for other crises.
- Be alert and aware of the surrounding area. The very nature of terrorism suggests that there may be little or no warning.
- Take precautions when traveling. Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Do not leave luggage unattended.
- Learn where emergency exists are located. Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway or congested public area in a hurry. Learn where staircases are located.
- Notice your immediate surroundings. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects that could move, fall or break in an explosion.
Preparing for a Building Explosion
The use of explosives by terrorists can result in collapsed buildings and fires. People who live or work in a multi-level building can do the following:
- Review emergency evacuation procedures. Know where fire exits are located.
- Keep fire extinguishers in working order. Know where they are located, and how to use them. (Contact your local fire department for training). Learn first aid. Contact the local chapter of the American Red Cross for additional information.
Keep the following items in a designated place on each floor of the building:
- Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- Several flashlights and extra batteries
- First aid kit and manual
- Several hard hats
-
Fluorescent tape to rope off dangerous areas
For additional information the following web sites may be useful:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.bt.cdc.gov
U.S. Department of Energy: www.energy.gov
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: www.hhs.gov
Federal Emergency Management Agency: www.fema.gov
Environmental Protection Agency: www.epa.gov/swercepp
John Hopkins University: www.hopkins-biodefense.org
Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/services/disaster/beprepared
North Carolina Government Homeland Security: http://www.ncgov.com/asp/subpages/safety_security.asp