booklets and brochures

personal protection measures against the terorist threat

suspicious letters or packages (continued)

If you have reason to believe a letter or parcel is suspicious:

Don't

• open the item, shake or empty the contents
• move the item from one location to another
• smell or taste the item

Do

• isolate teh item and leave it alone
• evacuate teh area
• call for immediate assistance. If at home, immediatley report the situation to local police. If at work, immediately report to your facility protective services.

chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threat

Recent terrorist attacks in the United States have raised the possibility of a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, or Nuclear (CBRN) attack. A CBRN attack on the U. S. remains a remote possibility. Staging such an attack, given weather, method of dispersion, and the environment is difficult.

Counter-terrorism experts believe that the greatest threat remains conventional explosives. Terrorists may, however, have read access to hazardous industrial chemical ingredients that could be used in an attack. If such an attack does occur, there are certain steps you can take.

• First, try to remain calm (rapid respiration and perspiring increase the intake of toxic substances.)
• Follow the directions of the First Responders including:
• Security/Protection Officers
• Firemen/HAZMAT Responders
• Police
• Emergency Medical Technicians or Health Officials

• Evacuate to designated area.
• If a portable inhalation device is unavailable, breathe through a handkerchief, scarf or other readily available clothing.
• Proceed upwind from the affected (release) site.
• Cover exposed skin with loose clothing; layers and less porous fabrics are best.
• Don't touch contaminated persons or their clothing; leave that to the protected First Responders.
• Seek treatment immediately.
• Wash exposed skin as soon as possible. Keep handiwipes in office for use during evacuations.
• Follow directions carefully. Depending on the chemical, the response can vary greatly.

The symptoms of a CBRN attack can range from mild to severe (e.g., sweating and a runny nose to lack of bodily functions.)

The onset of a biological attack may be more difficult to determine. It may involve the release of a viral, toxic, bacterial, or other agent against humans, animals, or food products. The biological agent will have a delayed onset and generate symptoms days or weeks after exposure. The first indication of an attack may be infected or exposed persons exhibiting similar symptoms at hospitals, clinics, doctors, or internal medical stations. Because some of these agents are contagious, infection may occur away from the targeted area and be carried to the target through normal human contact.

Aerosol biological attacks can only be accomplished in the predawn/early morning hours when winds are light and before air currents being to rise due to the warming of the ground. Measures taken to counteract chemical attacks also provide protection from biological attacks.

additional preventative actions

At ariports:

• Arrive early; watch for suspicious activity.
• Use concealed bag tags.
• Follow all airport security procedures.
• Be aware of unattended baggage anywhere in the terminal.
• Keep a low profile in dress and demeanor.
• When questioned by airport personnel, be direct and honest.
• Do not leave personal belongings unattended. Luggage not properly guarded provides an opportunity for a terrorist to place an unwanted object or device in your carry-on bag.
• As much as possible, do not pack anything you cannot afford to lose; if the documents are important, make a copy and carry the copy.
• Be extremely observant of personal carry-on luggage. Thefts of briefcases designed for laptop computers are increasing at airports worldwide.
• Report suspicious activity to the airport security personnel.

At hotels:

• Do not give room number to strangers
• Choose an inside hotel room, preferably between the 3rd and 10th floors.
• Leave lights on and a television or a radio, when room is vacant.
• Close curtains.
• Do not use name or rank when answering the telephone.
• Locate alternate exits in case of emergency.
• Keep your room key/card in your possession at all times.