The Federal Emergency Management Agency defines terrorism as "...the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation of the criminal laws of the United States for purposes of intimidation, coercion or ransom." Terrorists often use threats to create fear among the public, to try to convince citizens that their government is powerless to prevent terrorism and to get immediate publicity for their causes. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) categorizes terrorism in the United States as either domestic terrorism or international terrorism.

Emergency Information

1. Most terrorist incidents in the United States have been bombing attacks, involving detonated and undetonated explosive devises, tear gas and pipe/fire bombs.
2. The effects of terrorism can vary significantly from loss of life and injuries to property damage and disruptions in services such as electricity, water supply, public transportation and communications.
3. One way governments attempt to reduce vulnerability to terrorist incidents is by increasing security at airports and other public facilities.

Facts About Terrorism

1. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) reports that at least ten countries are believed to possess or be conducting research on biological agents for weaponization.
2. The Department of Defense estimates that as many as 26 nations possess chemical agents and/or weapons.

In the United States, most terrorist incidents have involved small extremist groups who use terrorism to achieve a designated objective.

Prepared to deal with a terrorist incident by adapting many of the same techniques used to prepare for other crises.

• Be alert and aware of the surrounding area. The nature of terrorism suggests there will be little or no warning.
  

• 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. Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway or congested public area in a hurry. Learn where staircases are located.
  

Prepare for a Building Explosion
The use of explosives by terrorists can result in collapsed buildings and fires. People who live or work in a multi-level building can do the following:

• Review emergency evacuation procedures. Know where fire exits are located.
  
• Keep fire extinguishers in working order.
  
• Learn first aid.
  
• Keep a portable, battery-operated radio, several flashlights, several hard hats, first aid kit and extra batteries in a designated place on each floor.

  If you receive a bomb threat, get as much information from the caller as possible. Keep the caller on the line and record everything that is said. Contact the police and the building management.

  After receipt of the bomb threat, do not touch any suspicious package. When evacuating a building, avoid standing in front of windows or other potentially hazardous areas.

  During a building explosion, get out of the building as quickly and calmly as possible. If items or falling from above, get under a sturdy table or desk.

  If there is a fire, stay low to the floor and exit the building as quickly as possible. Cover nose and mouth with a wet cloth. When approaching a closed door, use the palm of your hand to feel the lower, middle and upper parts of the door. If it is hot to the touch, do not open the door - seek another escape route. Stay below the smoke at all times.

  If you are trapped in debris, use a flashlight. Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are. Use a whistle if available. Shout only as a last resort - shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

  Untrained persons should not attempt to rescue people who are inside a collapsed building. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive.

  Chemical agents are poisonous gases, liquids or solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Most chemical agents can cause serious injuries or death.

  Biological agents are organisms or toxins that have illness-producing effects on people, livestock and crops. A person affected by a biological agent requires the immediate attention of professional medical personnel. Some agents are contagious and victims may need to be quarantined.