Terrorism, Page 1

  
     
 

terrorism

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About

  
 

Terrorists often use threats to create fear, get publicity, convince citizens that their government is powerless to protect them.

Terrorism is the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation of the criminal laws of the United States for purposes of intimidation, coercion, or ransom. Terrorists often use threats to create fear, get publicity to convince residents that their government is powerless to protect them.

  
     
 

Acts of terrorism include threats, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, bomb scares and bombings, cyber attacks (computer-based), and the use of chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological weapons. Over the years terrorists have become more sophisticated making use of the Internet, email, hand held devices, cell and satellite phones to carry out these acts.

  
     
 

High risk targets for acts of terrorism include military and civilian government facilities, international airports, trains, schools, large cities, and high-profile landmarks. In addition, terrorists can strike at large public gatherings, water and food supplies, utilities and corporate centers.  They can also spread fear by sending explosives or chemical and biological agents through the mail.

  
     
 

While there have been debates as to its effectiveness, the United States government established the Department of Homeland Security. Its web site contains much information about terrorism and other related issues.

 
     
     
 

During

  
 

  1. Learn to adapt quickly to a changed circumstance which defines a terrorist act. Quickly plan how you are going to survive the incident. This involves being very flexible.
     

  2. If you are indoors and are aware (by gut or warning) that an explosion is imminent or has occurred, duck and cover. Get away from windows and behind something solid. Then curl up to protect your face and eyes.
     

  3. If you are outdoors and are aware (by gut or warning) that an explosion is imminent or has occurred (because you see people choking and collapsing):

       •  Cover your nose and mouth. What is dangerous about most toxic substances is
         inhaling them. Take a handkerchief, scarf or shirt  (no matter how thin the fabric)
         reduces your chance of inhaling radioactive particles, chemical and biological.
         In addition, an ordinary bomb produces choking dust

       •  Move away at an angle. Finding yourself downwind of the attack may result in
         something dangerous drifting toward you. You can't outrun the wind so go
         sideways to the direction that it's blowing. Also, getting around a corner also will
         put a building between you and the source of danger.

         •  Get inside and find an intact, sturdy building and go in it. Modern buildings are
          airtight and will keep out most toxic substances for some time.

        •   Strip and shower. Carefully take your outer garments off (ideally, shower with
          your clothes on first so they're safer to handle). Then, place them where no one
          will touch them (ideally, sealed in a plastic bag). Shower or have someone hose
          you down, thoroughly but gently, to get the residue off your skin. EXCEPTION:
          A few toxic chemicals react dangerously with water; if you feel an
          adverse reaction, stop showering immediately.

 
 

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