Man-Made Disasters & Dangers

Man-Made Disasters & Terrorist Threats

It is important to remember, there are significant differences among potential man-made disasters that will influence the decisions you make and the actions you take. By beginning a process of learning about these specific threats, you are preparing yourself to react.

Biological Threat

A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. Many agents must be inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin or be eaten to make you sick. Some biological agents, such as anthrax, do not cause contagious diseases. Others, like the smallpox virus, can result in diseases you can catch from people.

Unlike an explosion, a biological attack may or may not be immediately obvious. While it is possible that you will see signs of a biological attack, it is perhaps more likely that local healthcare workers will report a pattern of unusual illness or there will be a wave of sick people seeking emergency medical attention. You will probably learn of the danger through an emergency radio or TV broadcast. Perhaps you will get a phone call or emergency response workers may come door-to-door. If you become aware of an unusual or suspicious release of an unknown substance nearby, it doesn’t hurt to protect yourself. Quickly get away. Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that can filter the air but still allow breathing. Examples include two to three layers of cotton such as a t-shirt, handkerchief or towel. Otherwise, several layers of tissue or paper towels may help. Wash with soap and water.

In the event of a biological attack, public health officials will provide information on what you should do as quickly as they can. However, it can take time for them to determine exactly what the illness is, how it should be treated and who is in danger. What you can do is watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for official news including the following: Are you in the group or area authorities consider in danger? What are the signs and symptoms of the disease? Are medications or vaccines being distributed? Where? Who should get them? Where should you seek emergency medical care if you become sick?

Chemical Threat

A chemical attack is the deliberate or accidental release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison people and the environment. Watch for signs of a chemical attack such as many people suffering from watery eyes, twitching, choking, having trouble breathing or losing coordination. If you see signs of a chemical attack, quickly try to define the impacted area or where the chemical is coming from, if possible. Take immediate action to get away from the affected area. If the chemical is inside a building, try to get out of the building without passing through the contaminated area. Otherwise, it may be better to move as far away from where you suspect the chemical release is and seal the room. If you are outside when you see signs of a chemical attack, you must quickly decide what is the fastest way to get away. Consider if you can get out of the area or if it would be better to go inside a building.

If your eyes are watering, your skin is stinging, you are having trouble breathing or you simply think you may have been exposed to a chemical, immediately strip and wash. Look for a hose, fountain or any source of water. Wash with soap, if possible, but do not scrub the chemical into your skin. Seek emergency medical attention.

Radiation Threat

Although highly unlikely, a radiation threat spreads radioactive materials over a targeted area. The radioactive contamination is usually more localized. The presence of radiation may not be clearly defined until trained personnel with specialized equipment are on the scene. Think about limiting your exposure, shielding, distance and time.