Emergency: Terrorism

An aspect of terrorism that affects many people who work in sensitive or governmental buildings is the bomb threat. Usually the person who receives the threat is someone who works for a corporation targeted by individuals or factions who have some type of violent complaint.

A terrorist attack with conventional weapons such as firearms, explosives or incendiary devices in the United States remains possible, though unlikely.

• Learn about the nature of terrorism.
• Terrorists often choose targets that offer little danger to themselves and areas with relatively easy public access.
• Foreign terrorists look for visible targets where they can avoid detection before or after an attack such as international airports, large cities, major international events, resorts, and high-profile landmarks.
• Learn about the different types of terrorist weapons including explosives, kidnappings, hijackings, arson and shootings.
• Prepare 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 very nature of terrorism suggests that there may 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, or congested public area in a hurry. Learn where staircases are located.
• Notice your immediate surroundings. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects that could move, fall or break in an explosion.