Press

On Monday evening, the national terror threat level was again raised to orange status, signifying a high risk of terrorist attacks.

When the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System was first adopted in March, many Americans wondered what they could do to prepare themselves and their families in the event of an attack. To assist, the American Red Cross developed specific disaster readiness guidelines for individuals, families, neighborhoods, schools and businesses.

Where to Start for Individual Preparedness

The first basic steps that should be taken include obtaining a copy of the Terrorism: Preparing for the Unexpected brochure from a local Red Cross chapter, taking a First Aid/CPR class and developing a disaster plan and a disaster supplies kit.

When creating a disaster plan, families should identify an emergency contact and ensure that every family member has the number. After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance, so the emergency contact should be located out-of-state.

Individuals should also stock or check their disaster supplies kit, containing such items as water, a first aid kit, non-prescription drugs, sanitation items, plastic sheeting and tape.

Next, individuals should follow the steps recommended for blue (guarded) and yellow (elevated) levels. Measures include developing an emergency communications plan with family, neighbors and friends. This step is in addition to establishing an out-of-town contact, and involves setting up a phone tree with loved ones and neighbors so, in case of evacuation, the people on your list can pass along information such as where you are evacuating to immediately following a disaster.

Orange Level Specific Recommendations
Once all actions for each of the lower levels are completed, individuals should then take a few additional measures specific to the orange condition. If a need is announced, donate blood at designated blood collection centers. Individuals should also review their disaster plans and recheck their supplies kit.

At this heightened state of alert, individuals should also be ready to “shelter-in-place” if necessary and recommended by local authorities in the event that hazardous materials have been released into the atmosphere. Shelter-in-place is a precaution aimed to keep you safe while remaining indoors, and means selecting a small, interior room, with no or few windows, and taking refuge there.

An important reminder is that shelter-in-place is not the same as seeking shelter from a disaster such as a hurricane. Should the measure be necessary, information will be provided by local authorities on television and radio stations on how to protect you and your family. Because information will most likely be provided on television and radio, it is important to keep a TV or radio on, even during the workday. The important thing is for you to follow instructions of local authorities and know what to do if they advise you to shelter-in-place.

To shelter-in-place at home:
--Close and lock all windows and exterior doors. If you are told there is danger of explosion, close the window shades, blinds, or curtains.
--Turn off all fans, heating and air conditioning systems.
--Close the fireplace damper.
--Get your family disaster supplies kit, and make sure the radio is working.
--Go to an interior room without windows that's above ground level. In the case of a chemical threat, an above-ground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed.
--Bring your pets with you, and be sure to bring additional food and water supplies for them.
--It is ideal to have a hard-wired telephone in the room you select. Call your emergency contact and have the phone available if you need to report a life-threatening condition. -Cellular telephone equipment may be overwhelmed or damaged during an emergency.
--Use duct tape and plastic sheeting (heavier than food wrap) to seal all cracks around the door and any vents into the room.
--Keep listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate. Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community.