During A Terrorism Incident
Follow the advice of local emergency officials.
• Take immediate action to get away from danger (chemicals, explosions, falling debris, etc.).
• Check for injuries, if a disaster occurs near you. Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
• Watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news and information including what the signs and symptoms of the disease or sickness are, if medications or vaccinations are being distributed and where you should seek medical attention if you become sick.
• Confine or secure your pets.
• Call your family contact-do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
• Check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
If You Think You Have Been Exposed to a Biological Agent . . .
• At the time of the declared biological emergency, if a family member becomes sick, it is important to become suspicious.
• Do not automatically assume you should go to the hospital emergency room or that any illness is the result of a biological attack.
• Symptoms of many common illnesses are often similar (fever, nausea, fatigue, headache, etc.).
• Use common sense, practice good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid spreading germs.
• Watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news and information including what the signs and symptoms are, if medications or vaccinations are being distributed and where you should seek medical attention if you become sick.
If You Think You Have Been Exposed to a Chemical …
• If your eyes are watering, your skin is stinging, and you are having trouble breathing, you may have been exposed to a chemical.
• If you think you may have been exposed to a chemical, take your clothes off immediately and wash as soon as possible.
• Look for a hose, fountain, or any source of water, and wash with soap if possible, being sure not to scrub the chemical into your skin.
• Seek emergency medical attention.
If There is a Radiation Threat or "Dirty Bomb" …
• If you are outside and there is an explosion or authorities warn of a radiation release nearby, cover your nose and mouth and quickly go inside a building that has not been damaged. If you are already inside check to see if your building has been damaged. If your building is stable, stay where you are.
• Close windows and doors and turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems.
• If you are inside and there is an explosion near where you are or you are warned of a radiation release inside, cover nose and mouth and go outside immediately. Look for a building or other shelter that has not been damaged and quickly get inside.
• Once you are inside, close windows and doors; turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems.
• If you think you have been exposed to radiation, take off your clothes and wash as soon as possible.
• Stay where you are, watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news as it becomes available.