Preparing for Terrorism

A terrorist attack would likely come without any warning. The best way to prepare is to have a disaster plan in place. Your family should create a plan that includes emergency contacts, identification information, meeting locations, disaster supply kit and more. Be sure to practice your plan. Terrorism does not mean you have to change your life, just be prepared.

Most families are not together 24 hours a day. You should consider how family members will find each other in a disaster situation. Meeting location points should be identified for the most commonly frequented locations, such as work or school. For example, if a crisis occurs at school, a location for both parents and children to meet should be in your plan.

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
• 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 exits are located.
• Be ready to enact your Family Disaster Plan.

• Building Explosion – leave as quickly and calmly as possible.
• If items are falling from above – get under a sturdy table or desk.
• Fire – stay low to the floor and exit as quickly as possible. Cover nose and mouth with a wet cloth. If a door is hot to the touch, do not open it – seek an alternate escape route. Stay below the smoke at all times.

• If you are trapped in debris – use a flashlight. Cover your mouth with a piece of cloth. Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if available and shout as a last resort – shouting can result in inhalation of dangerous amounts of dust.
• Assisting victims – untrained persons should not attempt to rescue people in a collapsed building. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
• Chemical Agent – authorities will instruct you to either seek shelter and seal the premises or evacuate immediately.

Put these contact numbers on your refrigerator and in your wallet or purse.

• 911
• Out-of-town Family Contact
• Schools
• Work
• Neighbors
• County Emergency Management

• Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family.
• Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet; including a child’s school, a neighbor or a public place.
• Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact. Have at least two ways of contact, e-mail, telephone, etc.
• Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
• Post emergency telephone numbers by your telephones and in your wallet or purse, and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
• Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a disaster supply kit.
• Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.

• Water – At least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days.
• Food – At least enough for 3 to 7 days
• Blankets / Pillows, etc.
• Clothing
• First Aid Kit/ Medicines
• Special Items – for babies or elderly
• Toiletries
• Moisture wipes
• Flashlight/ Batteries
• Radio – Battery operated and NOAA weather radio.
• Cash – Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.
• Keys
• Toys, Books and Games
• Important documents
• Tools
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet care items
• Duct Tape