What To Do If There Is A Chemical And Biological Attack

are chemical weapons? They are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids or solids that are toxic to people, animals or plants. They can be released by bombs, sprayed from the air or used as a liquid to create a hazard to people and the environment. Some chemical weapons may have no smell or taste. It's important to know that chemical agents are deadly but very difficult to deliver and produce. There has never been a chemical weapon attack in the U.S.

What are biological weapons? They are organisms or toxins that can kill or injure people, livestock and crops. The three basic groups of biological agents that might be used as weapons are bacteria, viruses and toxins. These biological agents may be put out in the air or water or food. It's important to remember that most biological agents are difficult to grow and maintain. The only biological weapon to be used in the U.S. happened in the fall of 2001 when anthrax spores in a white powder were mailed to people in the government and media.

there is a chemical or biological weapon attack near you, authorities will tell you what to do. Listening to the radio or television is a good way to know what authorities want people to do. Authorities may tell you to evacuate right away and to take shelter at a specific place, or they may tell you to stay exactly where you are and seal off the building or room. Staying in place is called "sheltering in place." So it's important to remember that you may NOT always evacuate in such an attack, as leaving may put you at greater risk.

How do you seal up a room if you are told to shelter in place? You should have duct tape, plastic sheeting and scissors. Have an adult turn off air conditioners, vents and fans. Find an interior room, hopefully a room that does not have windows. Seal around doors and windows with duct tape and plastic sheeting. Take your battery-powered radio with you so you know when it's "all clear." You will only stay in this room for a few hours at the most.

you feel you have come in contact with a chemical or biological substance during an attack, such as breathing fumes or from touching a substance, tell an adult immediately. They will get you medical treatment.