Terrorism: See Something, Say Something

Problem: An Act of terrorism
Scope: Local, Regional, National
Impact: Major (Depending on severity)
Dangers (not limited to): Personal Injury/Death, Catastrophic Damage/Building Collapse, Utilities Interruption, Power Outages, Communications Down
Preps (not limited to): Plan, Weapons/Personal Protection, Emergency Kit, Secondary Housing/Transportation

As much as we don’t like to think about it, the threat of terrorism is a very real danger in today’s world. Whether it’s a bomb, a shooting, or a chemical attack, the possibility of an act of terrorism is something we all need to be prepared for. In this article, we’ll discuss some steps you can take to prepare for and respond to an act of terrorism.

Preparing for an Act of Terrorism

1. Stay informed: One of the most important things you can do is stay informed about potential threats in your area. Keep up to date with the latest news and alerts from your local government and law enforcement agencies. Sign up for alerts from the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and your local government to stay informed about any potential threats.
2. Have an emergency plan: Develop a plan with your family or co-workers in case of an emergency. Make sure everyone knows what to do, where to go, and how to communicate with each other.
3. Build an emergency kit: Assemble a kit with essential items like food, water, medications, first-aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio. This kit should be easily accessible in case you need to evacuate your home or workplace.
4. Secure your home: Secure your home by installing deadbolt locks, security cameras, and alarms. Keep your windows and doors locked at all times and report any suspicious activity to the police.
5. Be aware of your surroundings: Be alert to any unusual activity or suspicious behavior in your community. Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately. Remember, If you see something, say something.

Responding to an Act of Terrorism

1. Stay calm: In the event of an attack, it’s essential to stay calm and avoid panic. Try to remain focused and follow the emergency plan you developed earlier.
2. Run, hide, fight: If you find yourself in an active shooter or other type of attack, remember the “Run, Hide, Fight” mantra. Run away from the attacker if you can, hide if you can’t run, and fight back as a last resort.
3. Evacuate: If instructed to evacuate, do so immediately. Follow the designated evacuation routes and move quickly to a safe location.
4. Shelter in place: If you cannot evacuate, shelter in place by finding a secure room with no windows and a solid door. Close and lock all windows and doors, turn off all ventilation systems, and seal any gaps around windows and doors with duct tape.
5. Communicate: Keep your cell phone charged and be prepared to send and receive text messages. Use social media to stay in touch with loved ones and let them know you are safe.
6. Follow instructions: Follow all instructions from law enforcement and emergency responders. Stay clear of the area until you are given the all-clear.
7. Help others: If you see someone who is injured or needs help, assist them if you can do so safely. Keep in mind that your safety is the top priority, and don’t put yourself in harm’s way if it can be avoided.

Terrorism Emergency Preparedness Kit

Here are some items that should go into an emergency kit for a terrorism event:

1. First Aid Kit: Injuries are common during terrorist attacks, and a first aid kit can help provide immediate medical assistance before professional help arrives. The kit should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief medication, and scissors.
2. Water: It is essential to stay hydrated during an emergency, so it is vital to have enough water for each person in the household. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
3. Non-perishable food: In a terrorist attack, it might not be possible to access food or electricity to cook, so it is important to have non-perishable food items in the emergency kit. Examples of non-perishable food items include canned food, energy bars, and dried fruits.
4. Flashlights and extra batteries: Terrorist attacks can cause power outages, so it is essential to have a flashlight with extra batteries in the emergency kit. It is also important to test the batteries regularly to ensure they are working correctly.
5. Radio: A battery-powered or hand-cranked radio is essential to stay informed about emergency alerts and updates. It is also helpful to have extra batteries for the radio.
6. Face Masks: In the event of a chemical, biological, or radiological terrorist attack, face masks can help protect against inhaling harmful airborne substances.
7. Personal hygiene items: In an emergency, it is important to maintain personal hygiene to avoid getting sick. Items to include in the emergency kit may include hand sanitizer, wet wipes, soap, and tissues.
8. Copies of important documents: Make copies of important documents, including identification, passports, insurance policies, and other legal documents, and store them in a waterproof and fireproof container.
9. Cash: In a terrorist attack, ATMs may not be accessible, so it is important to have enough cash to cover immediate expenses.
10. Tools and equipment: In a terrorist attack, it may be necessary to cut through debris or barricades, so it is important to have tools such as a hammer, screwdriver, and a utility knife. A whistle can also be useful to signal for help.
11. Emergency contact list: Write down important phone numbers and contact information for family members, neighbors, doctors, and emergency services, and keep them in the emergency kit.

In conclusion, while we can’t predict when or where an act of terrorism may occur, we can take steps to prepare ourselves and our families. By staying informed, having an emergency plan, and being aware of our surroundings, we can increase our chances of staying safe in the event of an attack. Remember, it’s important to remain calm and follow instructions from law enforcement and emergency responders during an emergency.

It is our mission to educate, equip, and empower everyday ordinary civilians to understand, prepare for, and survive any emergency they face. We cannot rely on the government to take care of us. We must take it upon ourselves to provide for and protect ourselves and our families.

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