Are You Prepared In Case of a Terrorist Attack?

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, have left many concerned about the possibility of future attacks on U.S. soil. There's even been talk of biological and chemical weapons. How can you protect yourself and your family in the event of a terrorist attack? Read on for some helpful tips.
 
Be Prepared for Anything
Many of the same techniques you use to prepare for other emergencies can be adapted for terrorist incidents. Here are a few tips:

• Create an emergency communications plan. Choose a trusted friend or relative to be your household point person. This person should live far enough away that they will not be directly affected by the same event. Make sure every member of your family has this person's email and phone number, including home, work, cell, and pager.
• Establish a meeting place. Should your home be affected or the area evacuated, having a predetermined meeting place will save time, minimize confusion, and ensure that all members of your family can find each other.
• Assemble an emergency supplies kit. Having certain essentials handy can save time and make a big difference. Include basics such as first aid supplies (including any prescription medications), a change of clothing for each household member, blankets, a radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, tools, duct tape, a fire extinguisher, and a flashlight. It's also a good idea to carry some extra cash and copies of birth certificates, passports, licenses for each family member. (Keep copies of other important documents in a safe location away from home, such as a bank safe deposit box.)
• Know your child's school emergency plan. Will the school keep your children there or send them home on their own? Make sure your school has all emergency contact information on file, including your out-of-town emergency point person. Be aware of your surroundings and use good common sense (i.e., don't accept a package from someone you don't know).

If Disaster Strikes
Try to remain calm. Follow the instructions of local emergency officials. If the disaster occurs near your home while you are there, use a flashlight to check for damage. Check for fire and gas leaks. Do not turn on electrical switches or light a match. If you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve, open the windows, and get everyone outside fast.

Stay tuned to the radio or TV for the most up-to-date information. Here are some other things that could happen:

• Local authorities may ask you to leave your home. Follow their instructions as quickly as possible. Protect yourself by wearing clothing that covers your entire body. Don't forget to take along your emergency supplies kit. Make sure you lock your home and take any pets with you. Shut off water and electricity before leaving. Turn off gas only if instructed to do so by an official. Use specified travel routes. 
• You are advised to take shelter-in-place. This means you should remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there. Close and lock all windows and exterior doors. Turn off any fans, heating and air conditioning systems. Close the fireplace damper. Get your emergency supplies kit. Stay in an interior room away from windows. In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is safer. Use duct tape to seal all cracks around doors and windows.

Learn some basic first aid. And remember, in any emergency situation, the more prepared you are, the better. As the Secretary of Homeland Security stated after 9/11, "We can be afraid or we can be ready."