Chemical, Biological, or Radiological Threats | Scope of Risk

The likelihood of a chemical, biological, radiological (CBR), or (or in extreme cases) nuclear attack is remote. However, the probability of such threats, whether delivered through advanced delivery mechanisms or through radioactive dirty bombs, will likely increase over time as terrorist organizations seek to obtain weapons of mass destruction. In addition, common explosives mixed with toxic chemicals can create makeshift chemical threats. Indicators that a chemical or biological attack has taken place might be groups of people displaying unusual behavior, and dead birds or animals in close proximity. Mist, clouds, or pools of unusual liquid or abnormal smells should be treated with suspicion; in places that have sensor equipment, an alarm may sound.
Add a note hereThe symptoms of a chemical attack may include pinpointed pupils and dimness of vision, red or irritated eyes and skin, choking and coughing, vomiting, nausea, and convulsions or seizures. Chemical agents may be heavier than air and sink into gullies, craters, and lowlying areas. The correct response is to cover the mouth and nose, move away from the area, and decontaminate with the use of water or other specialist materials. The effects of a biological attack may not be seen immediately, as they take time to develop after exposure, but may include a number of indicators, such as flulike symptoms, shortness of breath, vomiting, and diarrhea. If personnel believe they have been attacked with a biological agent, they should cover their noses and mouths, move out of the area, and seek immediate medical help.
Add a note hereExposure to radioactive material is not (typically) immediately lifethreatening, and the danger diminishes with the distance placed between the source and the individual. Personnel should be aware that dust and debris may carry radioactive materials that can be ingested or absorbed through the skin. Again, personnel should cover their noses and mouths and move away from the area, washing off dust and debris at the earliest opportunity. The effects of a nuclear attack will be immediately apparent and devastating. The effect of a nuclear detonation would be heat, blast, and radiation. Nuclear detonations that take place in the atmosphere create an electromagnetic pulse (EMP), which will seriously damage electronic devices connected to power sources or antennas. This includes communication systems, computers, electrical appliances, and automobile or aircraft ignition systems. The damage could range from a minor interruption to actual burnout of components. Most electronic equipment within 1,000 miles of a highaltitude nuclear detonation could be affected. Batterypowered radios with short antennas generally would not be affected. Although an EMP is unlikely to harm most people, it could harm those with pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices. If personnel are in the area of a nuclear detonation and are uninjured, they should leave the area and place themselves upwind of the blast to avoid radioactive fallout.
Add a note hereAlthough the threats associated with chemical, radioactive, and biological risks are significant, there are some simple measures that can be taken to help protect personnel and facilities:
§  Add a note hereCover the mouth and nose with a wet cloth.
§  Add a note hereSeal a building or room by closing air vents, windows, and doors using adhesive tape to prevent contaminants from entering.
§  Add a note hereMove to higher ground, as dust and other gaseous toxins will settle.
§  Add a note hereDrink only bottled water and sealed or protected food.
§  Add a note hereIf in a vehicle, personnel should close all windows and vents, and turn off airconditioning.
§  Add a note herePersonnel should move upwind of any event location as soon as safely possible.
Add a note hereThe IMP should be designed to offer simple and pragmatic advice and guidance to allow personnel exposed to chemical radioactive or biological threats, whether makeshift and unrefined or more conventional in nature. Measures should be pragmatic and should not alarm personnel—the IMP aims to implement measures by which to reduce contamination hazards, as well as create safe conditions for personnel to weather a crisis until government agencies can respond.

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