Terrorist Attacks

TERRORIST ATTACKS are another threat we must be aware of now. Although bombing has been the most popular method used in terrorist incidents in the United States, terrorism can occur in several forms. In recent years terrorists throughout the world have used arson, hostile takeovers and shootings to attain their political and social goals. In the future terrorists could use chemical or biological agents. In the event of an attack, it is important that you remain calm, cooperate fully with local officials and do not try to be a hero.

In the event of a chemical or biological attack, instructions will be provided by local public health and safety officials on personal protection, decontamination and health warnings by means of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts over radio, television, and print media.

In order to reduce the impact of terrorism in your life, you should prepare for possible emergencies. These instructions apply to situations at home, school or work.

BEFORE AN ATTACK- Prepare for the possibility of an attack in your area by:

Knowing that terrorists usually look for visible targets where they can avoid detection before or after an attack, such as international airports, large cities, and major events.
Reporting any suspicious activities to the FBI office at (205) 326-6166 or the St. Clair County Sheriff's Office at (205) 884-6840 or (205) 594-2141.
Being aware of your surroundings. Terrorists most often strike with little or no warning.
Using caution when you travel. Observe and report unusual activity. Keep your luggage with you at all times. Do not accept packages from strangers.
Locating stairways and emergency exits in the buildings where you live or work. Become familiar with plans for evacuation of buildings and crowded public areas you frequent.
Knowing where fire extinguishers are located. Be sure they are maintained in working order and that responsible personnel know how to use them.
Learning how to administer first aid and CPR.
Assembling a Disaster Supply Kit for each floor and keeping it in a designated place. The Kit should include those items listed in the Disaster Supply Kit checklist.

DURING AN ATTACK -If there is an explosion, remain calm. Take cover under a desk or sturdy table if ceiling tiles, bookshelves, etc. begin to fall. Then exit the building as quickly as possible, watching for weakened floors and falling debris.

If there is a fire, stay low to the floor at all times and exit the building as quickly as possible. Smoke and poisonous gases collect near the ceiling first. Use the back of your hand to feel closed doors. If the door is not hot, brace yourself against the door and open it slowly to see if fire or smoke is blocking your escape route. Do not open the door if it is hot. Seek another escape route. Use appropriate fire exits, not elevators. Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth. Wet the cloth if possible.

AFTER AN ATTACK -If you are trapped in debris, use a flashlight or whistle, if possible, to signal rescuers your location, or tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are. Shout only as a last resort if you hear someone and think they can hear you. Shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust. Stay where you are so you don't kick up dust. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing. Do not light a match.

You may be ordered, by means of the Emergency Alert System, to Evacuate or Shelter In Place. You should remain calm and follow the directions given you by local officials. If Evacuation is ordered, they will give you evacuation routes and the location of shelters. If you are to Shelter In Place, they will provide instructions on necessary actions. Do not leave your shelter location or return to the evacuated area until it is declared safe by local officials.

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