Explosions

Terrorists have frequently used explosive devices as one of their most common weapons. Terrorists do not have to look far to find out how to make explosive devices; the information is readily available in books and other information sources. The materials needed for an explosive device can be found in many places including variety, hardware, and auto supply stores.

Explosive devices are highly portable using vehicles and humans as a means of transport. They are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers.
Conventional bombs have been used to damage and destroy financial, political, social, and religious institutions. Attacks have occurred in public places and on city streets with thousands of people around the world injured and killed.

During an Explosion

If there is an explosion, you should:

• Get under a sturdy table or desk if things are falling around you. When they stop falling, leave quickly, watching for obviously weakened floors and stairways. As you exit from the building, be especially watchful of falling debris.
• Leave the building as quickly as possible. Do not stop to retrieve personal possessions or make phone calls.
• Do not use elevators.

Once you are out:

• Do not stand in front of windows, glass doors, or other potentially hazardous areas.
• Move away from sidewalks or streets to be used by emergency officials or others still exiting the building.

If you are trapped in debris:

• If possible, use a flashlight to signal your location to rescuers.
• Avoid unnecessary movement so you don’t kick up dust.
• Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand. (Dense-weave cotton material can act as a good filter. Try to breathe through the material.)
• Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are.
• If possible, use a whistle to signal rescuers.
• Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

All information above is from the FEMA website.

For more information and resources on Terrorism Preparedness, please visit the web sites below.

US Department of Homeland Security – FEMA
http://www.fema.gov/

US Department of Homeland Security
http://www.dhs.gov/

Homeland Security National Terrorism Advisory System
http://www.dhs.gov/national-terrorism-advisory-system

CDC – Center For Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/

CDC – Bioterrorism
http://emergency.cdc.gov/bioterrorism/

American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/

Ready Gov
http://www.ready.gov/