Disaster/Terrorism Preparedness

Disaster/Terrorism Preparedness

The FBI defines terrorism as "the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives". As a result of September 11, 2001, the CDC has recommended heightened awareness for any unusual events or illnesses. We need to be prepared for both natural disasters and terrorism events. Exposure to some biological or chemical agents may not cause an immediate illness or reaction; therefore it may take some time for government officials to determine that an attack has occurred.In the event of a terrorist attack, government officials will instruct residents on what actions they are taking and what actions the public should take.

ROLE OF PUBLIC

Be Prepared. Set up a communication tree for home & work. Have a family emergency plan,discuss plan and practice. Have a prearranged meeting place and discuss when to use. Check on neighbors, especially the elderly and disabled. Have a portable radio and batteries handy Adapt, as appropriate, the same techniques used to prepare for tornadoes, fires, and other emergencies. Observe your environment and report suspicious activities to law enforcement. Use caution when you travel. Keep your packages with you at all times. Do not accept packages from strangers. Locate stairways and emergency exits and be aware of plans for evacuating buildings and crowded public areas. Locate and maintain fire extinguishers and train responsible personnel how to use them Obtain training in first aid and CPR. Assemble and maintain emergency supply kit.

• Shelter in Place (preparing a shelter)

ROLE OF GOVERNMENT

Officials representing all levels of government are working with private and public service providers to develop and implement strategies for deterring, preventing and responding to terrorism as well as other emergency situations. The Bioterrorism Readiness Group membership in Washington County has representatives from three local hospitals, the Health Department, the American Red Cross, Fire Departments, EMS providers, the Sheriff's Department, local law enforcement, county/city/village governments and the Office of Emergency Management.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Stay informed, Have a plan, Be aware of your surroundings, Be alert to the unusual, Consider all possibilities, Remain calm, Alert law enforcement if needed, Take shelter/evacuate as directed, Protect yourself.

HANDLING OF SUSPICIOUS PACKAGES/MAIL

Do not shake, empty, carry, show to others, sniff, Handle as little as possible, Vacate area and alert others, Secure the area, Wash with soap and water, Call 911, Make a list of persons who were in the same area.

REPORT INCIDENT (DIAL 911)

Try To Provide The Following Information: Location and time of incident, Symptoms/number of victims, Nature of incident: explosion, fire, terrorism, Type of vehicle or container involved, Place to meet emergency responders.

EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT

Maintaining an emergency supply kit is a good idea for any emergency. Individuals and organizations should be prepared to be without assistance for a minimum of 72 hours.

Battery-powered radio, flashlights, batteries. Whistle. First aid kit and manual. Duct tape. Vital medications. Eye glasses/hearing aids. Water, food (canned, no-cook, packaged snacks), and manual can opener. Cash and credit cards. Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes. Blankets or sleeping bags. Fire extinguisher (A-B-C) type. Infant and feminine hygiene supplies. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of doctor and pharmacist. Food and water for pets. Large plastic bags for trash, waste, water protection. Toilet paper and paper towels. Charcoal grill or camp stove for outdoor cooking.

For More Information Contact Washington County Departments:

OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Rob Schmid, Coordinator
Office: 262-335-4399
Fax: 262-335-4796

HEALTH DEPARTMENT
Linda Walter, Health Officer
Office: 262-335-4462
Fax: 262-335-4705

SHERIFF
Dale Schmidt, Sheriff
Information: 262-335-4388
Emergency 911