For the latest reports on the fight against terrorism, go to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

This country is currently under alert for a terrorist attack. It is incumbent on every individual and company to take the necessary steps to eliminate or reduce the likelihood that they are victims of an attack or what is the proper response if an attack does occur. Just as proactive measures are essential to deter theft and violence they are required to prevent terrorism or respond accordingly if needed.

The threat to any company can only be reduced by recognition of the problem, detailed assessment, intelligence gathering, and the patient application of multiple and sustained deterrent measures.

To effectively deal with the threat of terrorism companies must enact contingency planning groups. The goals of an effective contingency planning group is to prevent an attack. If this cannot be achieved the company must be ready to respond in a way that ensures the best scenario to save lives and ensure business continuation. According to Secretary Tom Ridge, U.S. Department of Homeland Defense, Terrorism forces us to make a choice. “ We can be afraid or we can be ready.” Companies like individuals must be ready. Part of a corporate compliance program is to ensure that companies are sufficiently ready to save lives and ensure business continuation.

The following is an excerpt form the Homeland Security Department on basic guidelines for readiness. It includes very basic guidelines for what the employer’s responsibility is. A quality security program ensures these basic guidelines are met in addition to a vast array of specific measures for each company.

Preparing Makes Sense
The likelihood of you and your family surviving a house fire depends as much on having a working smoke detector and an exit strategy, as well as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving a terrorist attack. We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own, at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector, preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get ready now.

The Department has specific instructions for employers "If you are an employer, make sure your workplace has a building evacuation plan that is regularly practiced. Take a critical look at your heating ventilation and air conditioning system to determine if it is secure or if it could be feasibly upgraded to better filter potential contaminants. Be sure you and others know how to turn off the system if necessary. Think about what to do if your employees can’t go home, and make sure you have appropriate supplies on hand."

Education for employees on appropriate responses to specific types of attacks include:

Biological
A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. Some, like anthrax, are not contagious while others, like the smallpox virus, can result I communicable diseases. Many agents must be eaten, inhaled, or enter your body through a cut in the skin.

A biological attack may not be apparent immediately. Local healthcare workers will likely be the first to notify us all that something has happened because they will have experienced numerous patients with unusual symptoms.

If you learn that something has occurred, get away from the area as quickly as you can. Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that can filter the air but still allow breathing—such as a cotton t-shirt, handkerchief, or towel. Several layers of tissue or paper towels may also help. Wash with soap and water and call the authorities.

Keep watching news reports or listen to the radio and think of the following:
- Are you in the group or area authorities consider to be dangerous?
- Are medications or vaccines being distributed? Where? Who should be getting them?
- Where is the nearest place with emergency medical care if you become sick?Use common sense, practice good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid spreading germs, and seek medical advice if you feel you have been exposed.

Chemical
A Chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid, or solid that can poison people and the environment.
Watch for large numbers of people experiencing watery eyes, twitching, choking, having trouble breathing or losing coordination. Many sick or dead birds, fish or small animals are also reason for suspicion.

Take immediate action to get away from the affected area.

If the chemical is inside a building where you are, try to get out without having to pass through the contaminated area. If that is not possible, move as far away from where you suspect the chemical release is and create a barrier between yourself and the contaminated air. An interior room is best.

Nuclear Blast
If there is a flash or a fireball, take cover immediately—below ground if possible, though any thick shield or shelter will help protect you a bit from the immediate effects of the blast and the pressure wave. Remember, though, that nothing is foolproof in the event of a nuclear blast. In fact, you may be too close to the blast to do anything. That said; think about shielding, distance and time. A thick shield will absorb some of the radiation and you will be exposed to less. Likewise, the farther away you are form the blast and the fallout, the loser your exposure. Also, try and minimize the time spent exposed if at all possible.

Radiation threat, or "dirty bomb"
This is the use of common explosives with an enclosed radioactive element. It is used to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area. It is NOT a nuclear blast, as the force of the explosion ad radioactive contamination will be more localized. The blast will be immediately obvious, but the radioactive element may not be clearly defined until trained personnel with specialized equipment are on the scene. As with a nuclear blast, think about shielding, distance, and time.

Personal Workplace Disaster Supplies Kit
For the workplace, where you might be confined for several hours, or perhaps overnight, the American Red Cross recommends the following supplies:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Use the flashlight to find your way if the power is out. Do not use candles or any other open flame for emergency lighting.
- Battery-powered radio

News about the emergency may change rapidly as events unfold. You also will be concerned about family ad friends in the area. Radio reports will give information about the areas most affected.

Food
Enough non-perishable food to sustain you for at least one day (three meals), is suggested. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. The following items are suggested:
- Ready-to-eat canned meals, meats, fruits, and vegetables.
- Canned juices.
- High-energy foods (granola bars, energy bars, etc.)

Water
Keep at least one gallon of water available, or more if you are on medications that require water or that increase thirst. Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles.

Medications
Include usual non-prescription medications that you take, including pain relievers, stomach remedies, etc. If you use prescription medications, keep at least three-day’s supply of these medications at your work place. Consult with your physician or pharmacist how these medications should be stored, and your employer about storage concerns.

First Aid Supplies
If your employer does not provide first aid supplies, have the following essentials:
- (20) adhesive bandages, various sizes.
- 5” x 9” sterile dressing.
- Conforming roller gauze bandage.
- (2) triangular bandages.
- (2) 3 x 3 sterile gauze pads.
- (2) 4 x 4 sterile gauze pads.
- Roll 3” cohesive bandages.
- (2) germicidal hand wipes or waterless alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- (6) antiseptic wipes.
- (2) pair large medical grade non-latex gloves.
- Adhesive tape, 2” width.
- Anti-bacterial ointment.
- Cold pack.
- Scissors (small, personal).
- Tweezers.
- CPR breathing barrier, such as a face shield.

Tools and Supplies
- Emergency “space” blanket (mylar).
- Paper plates and cups, plastic utensils.
- Non-electric can opener.
- Personal hygiene items, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, brush, soap, contact lens supplies, and feminine supplies.
- Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses).
- Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear, including a long-sleeved shirt and long pants, as well as closed-toed shoes or tools.
- If you wear glasses, keep an extra pair with your workplace disaster supplies.
- Your kit should be adjusted based on your own personal needs.
- Do not include candles, weapons, toxic chemicals, or controlled drugs unless prescribed by a physician.

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