PREPS - Terrorist awareness and preparedness

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trackerschool.com

TERRORIST AWARENESS

by Tom Brown, Jr.

Tuesday, September 11th, 2001, will be a date that is forever etched in the minds and hearts of people across our country. Not only did it mark the most horrific terrorist attack that this nation has ever known, but it also marked a dramatic change in the way people will live in the future. Life as we knew it in the past will no longer be the same. We are now faced with a new enemy, It is an enemy that is very illusive [sic--elusive], secretive, and unlike any enemy we have ever known. It is an enemy without borders or country. It is an enemy that would surely die for their cause.

Our anguish and pain, though still present, is now shifting to a place of anger, rage, and fear. The terrorists responsible for these horrific acts of war enrage us, and as a nation we want them brought to justice. Yet we are also terrified, filled with the fear of more terrorist acts that could take place at any time and in any place. We are concerned for our nation, our people, and our families. Our travel has been diminished because of that fear. We elect to stay at home rather than to venture to the malls, the movies, or our favorite eateries. We are deeply concerned that our public places, our national monuments, and even government buildings may be a potential target of attack.

In the wake of this crisis, my school has been flooded with calls and letters. People everywhere are signing up for survival classes, fearing that they may need these skills to get through the coming years. Most of all, both the general public and the media, are calling for advice on how to keep themselves and their families safe from future terrorist attacks. Basically, the reason that my school is called so often during times of disaster is that we teach basic primitive survival skills that can be easily translated to a city and suburban environment. It is also generally known that I teach many law enforcement agencies across the country as well as the military. Not only do we teach tracking and counter tracking to the military, but also escape, evasion, and covert SPEC War operations, especially concerning terrorist activities.

I have been asked to come up with a list of things that people can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from future terrorist threats, I feel this is of primary importance since I have been witnessing a growth of paranoia, fear, and unfounded prejudice. Some people who have called our school are so panic stricken that they will not leave their homes, and this is not a healthy choice. Though the fear and potential for another attack are very real, being paranoid is not the answer. However, there are things that a person can do to minimize the possibility of being a target of terrorist attack, thus alleviating the paranoia and fear.

Certainly, as a nation or individual, we could never have known that we would be attacked in the manner that caused such horrific damage. This could not have been foreseen. Yet, as we face a new wave of terrorism, we can become more aware of potential danger. The following is a simple list of things people can do to keep them safer and less fearful.

1 .One of the most important rules of any war or endeavor is to know your enemy. Do research into the history of the terrorists, study their religion, training, and what drives them. Fear of the unknown only compounds any fear or paranoia. Ignorance also creates hatred and prejudice, which puts innocent people at risk.

2. Do not allow your life to be ruled by fear, paranoia, or prejudice. Even with the potential for more terrorist activities and our country declaring war on the terrorists, there is no need to sink into the prison of paranoia. Paranoia, like suspicion, only creates a paralysis and a pessimistic outlook on life, which can all too easily be transferred to our children.

3. BE AWARE. I believe that awareness is the most important rule in keeping ourselves safe. It makes no difference whether you are in your own home, driving to work, or in a public place, awareness is the paramount skill that everyone should possess. All too often people get caught up in their own little worlds, nearly oblivious to everything going on around them. This lack of awareness only puts a person at risk, not only for terrorists, but also for any crime. One should be aware of everything around them, people doing things out of context, boxes or bags left unattended, suspicious activity, autos or trucks out of place, and anything else that even mildly catches your attention. The key is to be attentive.

4. Certainly awareness is critical, but do not get carried away with your suspicions. Rather than to assume that someone hanging out in a mall that is watching people is a terrorist, observe the situation further. Once a person chooses to become aware of their surroundings they will see things that they never noticed before. Believe it or not, these new things you are witnessing have always been going on, it's only now that you are suddenly aware of them for the first time. Observe closely before you send out an alarm.

5. Many communities already have in place something called a "Neighborhood Watch". This is where a group of neighbors, usually living on the same street, watch out for each other. They watch for any suspicious activities, day or night, which are out of context. In essence, the neighborhood takes care of itself and each other. Whenever something suspicious occurs other neighbors and the authorities are called. What we now need is a National Neighborhood Watch. We as Americans should watch out for each other, extending our neighborhood from sea to shining sea. However, we should never allow our National Neighborhood Watch to become vigilantism. 6. Our National Neighborhood Watch should not be confined to just our immediate neighborhood or town, but encompass anyplace we travel, both public areas as well as private. Not only would this new national awareness assist us in preventing terrorist attacks, but it would also alert us to any criminal activity.

7. Compounding our knowledge of our enemy and our heightened awareness, we should also pay attention to a reputable news source. This way we not only know what is going on in our own state and country, but also the events that are shaping the world.

8. When in any building, public or private, know where the exits are. Also know the many possible roads that you can take when going to work or play. It is always good to know the way out, especially if a situation arises that demands immediate response.

9. It has always been my suggestion that you keep a survival kit in your car, place of business, and home. Extra clothing, food, water, flashlights, first aid kits, and other supplies can be easily stored. Not only will this aid you if power is cut off, or you are stranded by some terrorist attack, it will also be valuable for any disaster situation.

10. Teach your children to be safe and to be aware, without striking panic, prejudice, or paranoia into their lives. Children are a reflection of the adults that are in their lives and if you live a life filled with fear and paranoia so will they. It is especially important for very young children that we create a safe and secure environment, but not one built on the foundations of fear and prejudice.

11. Now with the threat of a new enemy and terrorism I believe the same techniques used when one enters a wilderness should also hold true everyday. Simply, know where each member of your family is going and what time they expect to return. Know what roads they will be taking, who they will be traveling with, and what buildings they will be visiting or working in. Know the phone numbers and emergency numbers where they can be reached. With children, have a backup place for them to go in case of emergency. I also suggest that you have one or preferably two emergency meeting places if your way home is blocked. It is also important to stay in touch with each other throughout the day, especially if plans have changed. This should also include other family members and friends living far away.

12. Teach each family member the public emergency management procedures that are applicable to your town and county. Also have in place personal emergency procedures for both at home and work. Teach everyone how to use emergency phone numbers, fire extinguishers, and basic first aid.

The above list is certainly not complete. There are numerous other techniques and methods that have been left out. The elements listed are only the most important issues that be learned and understood if we are to minimize the personal risk of becoming involved in a terrorist attack. Yet the one thing that cannot be taught is good common sense. We can never allow ourselves to become paranoid, enraged, or prejudiced because of the actions of a select few individuals. We should never get so caught up in suspicion that we become paralyzed with fear. Instead, we should come together as a nation, hold our family closer, and look to the Creator for guidance.

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

Answers

OG,

Prep "suggestions" from the Red Cross (a bit long, two articles):

They have upped it from just three days to now 3-7 days (and even upwards, "if you feel comfortable..."). Also "suggesting" that you have food packed up and "ready to move" - meaning evacuation.

http://www.redcross.org/services/di...pared/food.html

Food Supplies in Case of Disaster

How long can food supplies be stored?

To judge how long you can store food supplies, look for an “expiration date” or “best if used by” date on the product. If you can not find a date on the product, then the general recommendation is to store food products for six months and then replace them.

Some households find it helpful to pull food products for their regular meals from their disaster supplies kit and replace them immediately on an ongoing basis, so the food supplies are always fresh.

What kinds of food supplies are recommended to store in case of a disaster?

Try to avoid foods that are high in fat and protein, and don’t stock salty foods, since they will make you thirsty. Familiar foods can lift morale and give a feeling of security in time of stress. Also, canned foods won’t require cooking, water or special preparation. Take into account your family’s unique needs and tastes. Try to include foods that they will enjoy and that are also high in calories and nutrition.

Store supplies of non-perishable foods and water in a handy place. You need to have these items packed and ready in case there is no time to gather food from the kitchen when disaster strikes. Sufficient supplies to last several days to a week are recommended.

Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. Foods that are compact and lightweight are easy to store and carry.

Try to eat salt-free crackers, whole grain cereals and canned food with high liquid content.

Recommended foods include:

Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables. (Be sure to include a manual can opener)

Canned juices, milk and soup (if powdered, store extra water).

High energy foods, such as peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars and trail mix.

Comfort foods, such as hard candy, sweetened cereals, candy bars and cookies.

Instant coffee, tea bags.

Foods for infants, elderly persons or persons on special diets, if necessary.

Compressed food bars. They store well, are lightweight, taste good and are nutritious.

Trail mix. It is available as a prepackaged product or you can assemble it on your own.

Dried foods. They can be nutritious and satisfying, but have some have a lot of salt content, which promotes thirst. Read the label.

Freeze-dried foods. They are tasty and lightweight, but will need water for reconstitution.

Instant Meals. Cups of noodles or cups of soup are a good addition, although they need water for reconstitution.

Snack-sized canned goods. Good because they generally have pull-top lids or twist-open keys.

Prepackaged beverages. Those in foil packets and foil-lined boxes are suitable because they are tightly sealed and will keep for a long time.

Food Options to Avoid:

Commercially dehydrated foods. They can require a great deal of water for reconstitution and extra effort in preparation.

Bottled foods. They are generally too heavy and bulky, and break easily.

Meal-sized canned foods. They are usually bulky and heavy.

Whole grains, beans, pasta. Preparation could be complicated under the circumstances of a disaster.

What is the basis for the Red Cross recommendation to store supplies to last several days to a week? Red Cross recommendations to have food, water, and other emergency supplies on hand are not new, and are considered reasonable in case of any disaster. Our recommendations are to have supplies to last several days to a week. Most reasonable people would not consider such quantities of supplies as a "stockpile" or "hoarding."

Some families may choose to store supplies to last several weeks or more. Certainly, if they wish to do so, they may. It is always wise to have sufficient food and water supplies on hand in case access to such supplies may be disrupted by a disaster.

For more information, please contact your local Red Cross chapter. Ask for a copy of the following brochures: “Your Family Disaster Plan” (A4466); “Your Family Disaster Supplies Kit” (A4463) and “Food and Water in an Emergency” (A5055).

http://www.redcross.org/services/di...d/supplies.html

Disaster Supplies Kit

There are six basics you should stock for your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items. Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container-- suggested items are marked with an asterisk(*). Possible containers include a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack, or a duffle bag.

Water

Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more. Store one gallon of water per person per day. Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).*

Food

Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight.

Include a selection of the following foods in your Disaster Supplies Kit:

Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables Canned juices Staples (salt, sugar, pepper, spices, etc.) High energy foods Vitamins Food for infants Comfort/stress foods

First Aid Kit Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car.

Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes Assorted sizes of safety pins Cleansing agent/soap Latex gloves (2 pairs) Sunscreen 2-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6) 4-inch sterile gauze pads (4-6) Triangular bandages (3) Non-prescription drugs 2-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls) 3-inch sterile roller bandages (3 rolls) Scissors Tweezers Needle Moistened towelettes Antiseptic Thermometer Tongue blades (2) Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant Non-Prescription Drugs

Aspirin or nonaspirin pain reliever Anti-diarrhea medication Antacid (for stomach upset) Syrup of Ipecac (use to induce vomiting if advised by the Poison Control Center) Laxative Activated charcoal (use if advised by the Poison Control Center)

Tools and Supplies

Mess kits, or paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils* Emergency preparedness manual* Battery-operated radio and extra batteries* Flashlight and extra batteries* Cash or traveler's checks, change* Non-electric can opener, utility knife* Fire extinguisher: small canister ABC type Tube tent Pliers Tape Compass Matches in a waterproof container Aluminum foil Plastic storage containers Signal flare Paper, pencil Needles, thread Medicine dropper Shut-off wrench, to turn off household gas and water Whistle Plastic sheeting Map of the area (for locating shelters) Sanitation

Toilet paper, towelettes* Soap, liquid detergent* Feminine supplies* Personal hygiene items* Plastic garbage bags, ties (for personal sanitation uses) Plastic bucket with tight lid Disinfectant Household chlorine bleach Clothing and Bedding *Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person.

Sturdy shoes or work boots* Rain gear* Blankets or sleeping bags* Hat and gloves Thermal underwear Sunglasses Special Items

Remember family members with special requirements, such as infants and elderly or disabled persons

For Baby*

Formula Diapers Bottles Powdered milk Medications For Adults*

Heart and high blood pressure medication Insulin Prescription drugs Denture needs Contact lenses and supplies Extra eye glasses Entertainment

Games and books

Important Family Documents

Keep these records in a waterproof, portable container:

Will, insurance policies, contracts deeds, stocks and bonds

Passports, social security cards, immunization records

Bank account numbers

Credit card account numbers and companies

Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers

Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)

Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members.

Keep a smaller version of the supplies kit in the trunk of your car.

Keep items in airtight plastic bags.

Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh.

Replace your stored food every six months.

Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year.

Replace batteries, update clothes, etc.

Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.

General Disaster Preparedness Materials Children & Disasters

"Disaster Preparedness Coloring Book" (ARC 2200, English, or ARC 2200S, Spanish) Children & Disasters ages 3-10. "Adventures of the Disaster Dudes" (ARC 5024) video and Presenter's Guide for use by an adult with children in grades 4-6.

To get copies of American Red Cross Community Disaster Education materials, contact your local Red Cross chapter.

The text on this page is in the public domain. We request that attribution to this information be given as follows: From "Disaster Supplies Kit." developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross.

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001


Thanks, Deb. In fact, I think your info needs to be posted as several threads, split up into the various headings in the piece. I.e., PREPS - Food to store for an emergency. PREPS - Tools to have for an emergency. Could I prevail upon you to do that? I know it would be extremely useful and widely read.

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

OG,

Certainly - consider it done! (Please excuse the delay - at a birthday party/bonfire and just got back...)

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001


Hope you had a damn good time! Saw the results, good stuff, thanks.

-- Anonymous, October 20, 2001

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