Sunday, November 30, 2008

More information on how to be better prepared to face crisis situations

Safety & Risk Management During Terrorist incidents
Terrorism Defined
Terrorism is the use of violence, or the threat of violence, to create a climate of fear, in a given population.
Who is a Terrorist?
Anyone who, through the use of violence, or the threat of violence, attempts to create a climate of fear in a given population.
US Advisory System
Company uses the same alert system regarding incidents on and around our campuses.
Types of Terrorism
Physical
Psychological
Technological
Biological/Chemical
Physical Terrorism
The physical destruction of property and/or the taking of human life. September 11, 2001, is an example of physical terrorism that not only destroyed property and took human life, but also had a psychological effect on the population as a whole.
Psychological Terrorism
Relies on instilling fear in others and taking away the basic freedoms/rights that we take for granted on a daily basis. It can be as simple as being afraid to open our mail, to go out in public, or to travel.
Psychological terrorism effects everyone differently and can have long lasting effects.
Technological Terrorism
The taking advantage of technology to disrupt, destroy, or hamper the use of today’s technology. Computer viruses are a perfect example of technological terrorism.
A simple, well written virus can bring the world to it’s knees by disrupting computer usage around the world.
Chemical/Biological
Chemicals, diseases, and nuclear waste could be used as weapons of mass destruction, but producing the infectious agents, toxins, or chemicals and then disseminating it in the air, water or food would be a daunting challenge.
Preparing for Terrorism
Be aware of your surroundings
Take precautions when traveling
Leave the area if you feel uncomfortable
Know the location of emergency exits
Assemble a Disaster Supply Kit
Know the location of fire extinguishers
Be prepared to “Shelter In Place”
Preparing for Terrorism (cont.)
In the immediate area of an incident
Stay calm
Leave the area of impact
Seek safe shelter
“Shelter In Place”
Remain orderly
Preparing for Terrorism (cont.)
In The Immediate Area Of An Incident (cont.)
Listen To Company Officials
Listen To Public Safety Officials
Listen To Police
Listen To Fire Department Officials
Commitment to Prior Planning
Representation on City Task Force
Emergency Preparedness Task Force
Enhanced communications
Staff training and development
Mutual Aid Agreements
Reacting to A Building Explosion
Know the location of emergency exits
Review Emergency Evacuation Procedures
Know location of fire extinguishers
Do not panic – remain calm
Do not use elevators
Stay away from windows
Immediately evacuate the building
Go to a “Safe Zone” at least 100 feet away
Seek emergency shelter
Shelter In Place
In the event of an airborne attack, individuals should be prepared to “Shelter In Place.” Close all windows and doors, seal door cracks, and proceed to internal building areas, such as: interior offices or hallways.
Once your work area has been sealed, notify/assist others in the area to do the same. Stay “Sheltered In Place” until the all clear signal is given.
Shelter In Place (cont.)
When entering a building once an emergency has been declared, individuals who may have been contaminated by a foreign substance, must seek shelter in the closest men’s or ladies room.
Emergency personnel will be directed to search the 1st floor restrooms.
Be Prepared
Be prepared to do without services
Phone
Electric
Natural gas
Gasoline
ATM Machines
Internet
Be Prepared
Follow official instructions
General evacuation
Evacuation to a shelter
“Shelter In Place” (stay indoors)
Do not panic – remain calm
Conserve energy

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