CHEMICAL TERRORISM ATTACKS

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids, and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals, or plants. They can be released by bombs or sprayed from aircraft, boats, and vehicles. They can be used as a liquid to create a hazard to people and the environment. Some chemical agents may be odorless and tasteless. They can have an immediate effect (a few seconds to a few minutes) or a delayed effect (2 to 48 hours). While potentially lethal, chemical agents are difficult to deliver in lethal concentrations. Outdoors, the agents often dissipate rapidly. Chemical agents are difficult to produce.
A chemical attack could come without warning. Signs of a chemical release include people having difficulty breathing; experiencing eye irritation; losing coordination; becoming nauseated; or having a burning sensation in the nose, throat, and lungs. Also, the presence of many dead insects or birds may indicate a chemical agent release.

Before a Chemical Attack:
* Have a disaster kit that includes duct tape, scissors plastic sheeting to seal off doors, windows,
and vents for use if you shelter in place. Ideally the plastic could be pre-cut and ready to seal
off an interior room in the highest level of your home.
* Have a two week supply of water and food to take with you into the room. Take your 72-hour
kit into the room with you. Make sure you have a radio to use for information. Have a plan to
deal with personal waste if you should need to shelter in place.

During a Chemical Attack:
* Close doors and windows to your home, turn off ventilation (heating and air conditioning
systems including fans), and close any other openings to the outside such as fireplace dampers.
* Take disaster kits, food, water, and first aid supplies to the shelter room. Seal the room with
duct tape and plastic sheeting.
* Listen to the radio for information and instructions.

If caught in or near a contaminated area:
* Move quickly away upwind from the source of contamination.
* Seek shelter as quickly as possible