Terrorism in the 2000's

The ability of the United States Government to prevent, deter, defeat and respond effectively to terrorist attacks against the citizens of the U.S. whether they are domestic, on international waters or on foreign soil is one of the most challenging problems facing our times.

The U.S. regards all such terrorism acts as a potential threat to our national security as well as a criminal act and will use all capabilities to stop these acts and to apprehend and prosecute any individuals involved in such acts.

A plan has been developed to assist the Federal Government along with State and local agencies to work together in a coordinated response to such terrorist acts.  It has established a guidance for assessing and monitoring potential threat, notifying proper federal, state and local agencies of the potential threat and sending the required advisory and technical resources to assist the Lead Federal Agency in coordination of a crisis and consequence management response.

This is not a new guidance.  We have had different types of security issues during the history of the United States.  However, with the development of modern technology, we have had to step up with new thoughts and ideals in order to protect the United States from the modern era of terrorists.

The Threat is REAL.....................

Terrorists have the knowledge and the capability to strike anywhere in the world.  We have seen that when properly motivated they will do whatever they have to in order to achieve their goals.  Recent examples of terrorist attacks include the World Trade Center bombing in February of 1993, the Tokyo Subway nerve agent attack, March 1995, the Oklahoma City Bombing, April 1995 and the Twin Towers, 9-11-2001.  There have been smaller bombing incidents, not necessarily classed as terrorists events, at the 1996 Olympic Games, at family planning clinics and at social clubs.  The list will most likely continue to grow.

All communities, especially those in free societies, are vulnerable to incidents involving terrorism.  Nearly all of these communities contain some high visibility target.  These targets usually are situated along routes with high transportation and access potential.  Many have manufacturing and testing facilities.  Other examples of locations that may become targets for criminal or terrorist activity include:

• Public assembly

• Public buildings

• Mass transit systems

• Places of High Economic Impact

• Telecommunications facilities

• Places of historical or symbolic significance

Despite our security consciousness, if terrorists intend to wreak havoc, it will be difficult to stop them.  An act of terrorism can occur anywhere, at any minute, when you lest expect it.  No jurisdiction, whether urban or rural, is totally immune.

What is TERRORISM????????????

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) defines terrorism as "the unlawful use of force against a person or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives".  This definition includes three elements:

• Terrorist activities are illegal and involve the use of force.

• The actions intend to intimidate or coerce.

• The actions are committed in support of political or social objectives.

In one sense, it makes no difference to a first responder, whether the incident is a terrorist act or not.  You will still respond and be among the first on the scene.  Naturally, the size and the kind of terrorist action are key factors.  But the important point to note is that an act of terrorism is essentially different from normal emergencies.  You will have to deal with a new set of circumstances far different from the structural fire, auto wreck or even hazardous materials incidents.

For more information, visit FEMA online at www.fema.com, or the Ohio EMA online at www.state.oh.us/odps/division/ema/

                 Terrorism Preparedness

Since 9/11, we are all sharply aware of how terrorism can affect our lives. As we continue adjusting to life in the new millennium, it is now more important than ever before that we take the appropriate steps to protect ourselves from the threat of terrorist attack.

Planning
You should plan in advance what you will do in the case of any terrorist attack. Be prepared to assess the situation, use common sense and whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Consider where your family spends time for work, school and play. Ask about their emergency plans. Find out how they will communicate with families during an emergency. If they do not have an emergency plan, consider helping them to develop one.

Preparedness
You and your family may not be together when disaster strikes. Be prepared for a variety of situations. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the attack, the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You and your loved ones should understand and plan for both possibilities.

If time allows after an attack, you should convene your family in a pre-designated area and tune into local radio or TV for current news or instructions. If it has been determined that you are better off staying in place, you should make sure you have the following items on hand:

• First aid kit / essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
• A vehicle with a full tank of gas, maps and an Emergency Kit
• Portable Air Room Filter

Response
The most important aspect of responding to a terrorist attack is to stay informed to media channels to determine the exact nature of what you may be facing and the appropriate steps to take to protect yourself. As information becomes available, you will be able to determine the scope of the situation and how it will immediately affect you and your family. The important thing to remember is to stay calm, assess the situation and use common sense.