TERRORISM: From Bridgeport Emergency Management "The threat of terrorism does not have to change your life. Just Be Prepared."
How Should Bridgeport Prepare For Terrorism? Unlike with a Hurricane or a Flood, there will likely be NO WARNING for a terrorist attack. We, as a community can make sure that our families know what we would do to account for each other in a disaster. A Family Disaster Plan is critical and should be in place at all times. Your family's plan should include Emergency Contacts, identification of Rally Points, Disaster Supply Kit, and more.
With some simple planning this can be done and help alleviate the fear of the unknown.
Why Your Family Should Identify Rally Points... Since your family is not together 24 hours a day, you need to consider how you would find each other in a disaster. Rally points (physical locations) should be identified for the most commonly frequented locations (i.e. work, school, neighbors). For example, if a crisis occurs at school - a location where both parents and child designate to meet should be included in your plan. Before, During, and After a Terrorist Incident... SOURCE: FEMA TERRORISM FACT SHEET
BEFORE
Be alert and aware of your surroundings.
Take precautions when traveling. Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Do not leave luggage unattended.
Learn where emergency exits are located.
Be ready to enact your Family Disaster Plan
DURING
Building Explosion - leave as quickly and calmly as possible.
If items are falling from above - get under a sturdy table or desk.
Fire - stay low to the floor and exit as quickly as possible. Cover nose and mouth with a wet cloth. If a door is hot to the touch, do not open it - seek an alternate escape route. Stay below the smoke at all times.
AFTER
If you are trapped in debris- use a flashlight. Cover your mouth with a piece of cloth. Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if available and shout as a last resort - shouting can result in inhalation of dangerous amounts of dust.
Assisting victims - untrained persons should not attempt to rescue people in a collapsed building. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
Chemical Agent - authorities will instruct you to either seek shelter and seal the premises or evacuate immediately.
Where Can You Go For More Info Terrorism-Preparing for the Unexpected - American Red Cross Anthrax FAQs - Centers for Disease Control Anthrax Resources for First Responders - US Fire Administration What To Do If You Receive a Suspect Package - FBI Advisory Federal Emergency Management Agency - Terrorism Backgrounder - Terrorism Fact Sheet - Federal Response Plan - Interagency Domestic Terrorism Concept of Operations Plan - Urban Search and Rescue American Red Cross National Domestic Preparedness Office What Actions Should You Take To Be Prepared? Talk to your family. Discuss the potential hazards and threats. Develop your Family Disaster Plan to include rally points and have a third party as a common contact. Practice your plan. Terrorism does not mean you have to change your life. You only need to BE PREPARED.
For More Information Contact The City of Bridgeport Office of Emergency Management (203) 576-8376 or your local emergency management or Red Cross.
