BENEFITS – Reducing fear, anxiety and minimizing the impact of disasters.

BEFORE – Know the risks and danger signs, purchase appropriate insurance (keep copy of it & vital documents elsewhere), develop a plan, assemble a disaster kit (Blankets, First Aid Kit, Battery operated radio, Fresh batteries, Whistle, sanitation, and 3-Day supply of Food and Water). Develop safety skills (First Aid, CPR, Fire Extinguisher). Develop an emergency communication plan (Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact" After a disaster). Have a plan for getting back together.

DURING – Plan into action / Follow written procedures, Follow guidance of officials. EVACUATION: Full tank of gas, $$$, e-Kit in car, Gather family (Who to contact), Notify others of plan. Know evacuation routes. SHELTER IN PLACE: Lock doors & windows. Shut-off gas? Leave freezer & refrigerator plugged in?

AFTER – Repair property, Take steps to prevent future loss.

National Next Of Kin Registry… http://nokr.org/nok/restricted/home.htm

http://www.ready.gov/index.html http://www.fema.gov/hazards/

http://www.weather.gov/nwr

NOAA Weather Radio (MHz): 162.4 162.5

http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/assemble_disaster_supplies_kit.shtm

Are you READY? to prepare

Preparation The facility is equipped with an automatic emergency electrical system (back-up generator). In

the event of a power failure, the system will automatically start and provide electricity to all necessary support systems.

During a power failure If the back-up generator does not automatically start, the nurse manager, or designee, shall

start the system manually. Ensure that critical medical/electrical equipment is on emergency power (RED outlets). Notify the power company immediately. Any case not already in progress will be delayed or canceled until NORMAL power is

restored. You must complete any case that is already in progress, as expeditiously as possible, and no

further case started. Cases will only be re-started when it is certain that NORMAL power has been returned and

the Medical director, or designee, has given the approval to resume operations.

Power Failure

Fires

Each Year: 4,000 Americans die and more than 25,000 are injured in fires (most of which could be prevented). 500,000 residential fires. Direct property loss over $ 9 billion.

Speed: A fire can double in size every 30 seconds. A wastebasket fire can consume a room in less than five minutes, and an entire house in less than 15 minutes.

Danger: Heat and smoke can be more dangerous than the flames. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

Smoke Alarms: It decreases your chances of dying in a fire by half. Place them in every level of your residence, in bedrooms (on the ceiling or on the walls – 4 to 12 inches from ceiling), at the top of stairways and near the kitchen. Test and clean them once/Mo. Replace batteries once/Yr. Replace them once/10 yrs.

Prevent: Clean out storage areas. Never use flammables indoors. Store flammable liquids in approved containers. Keep heat sources away from flammables & combustibles. Screened fireplace. Heating units inspected yearly by a certified specialist. Have electrical wiring inspected by an electrician. Sleep with door closed. Install fire extinguishers. Ask FD to inspect your house.

Escaping: Review escape routes with family. Practice escaping from each room. Keep halls, stairwells and doorways CLEAR to facilitate evacuation.

1906 – San Francisco, CA: 500 city blocks, from 500 to 3,000 deaths

Fires

 If You Discover A Fire Or Smoke: Warn others - Fire Alarm.

If You Hear A Fire Alarm: Immediately leave the building using the nearest safe exit.

Leave The Building Immediately: Do not stop for personal belongings Crawl low in smoke Use wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth Don’t use elevators If you catch fire, DON’T RUN! – Stop, Drop and Roll Don’t open a hot door (feel it with the back of your hand) - Close doors as you go.

Call Fire Department: (9-1-1) from a safe location and give ALL relevant information.

If fire is small and controllable, you have received fire extinguisher training; You may (voluntarily) try to stop the fire (if it is not blocking your exit route). Remember “PASS”.

Stop the source of the fire by using a fire extinguisher, water (do NOT use water on grease or oil), salt, or by covering the container. Once out, assemble in a pre-determined area.

Floods

Before: Buy Flood Insurance (take photos or videos of all of your important possessions. If your home is damaged in a flood, these documents will help you file a full flood insurance claim. Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects (such as photographs) where they won't get damaged. If major flooding is expected, consider putting them in a storage facility.

Buy and install sump pumps with back-up power. Have a licensed electrician raise electric components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring) at least 12" above your home's projected flood elevation. For drains, toilets, and other sewer connections, install backflow valves or plugs to prevent floodwaters from entering. Anchor fuel tanks. An unanchored tank in your basement can be torn free by flood waters, and the broken supply line can contaminate your basement. An unanchored tank outside can be swept downstream, where it can damage other houses. If your washer and dryer are in the basement, elevate them on masonry or pressure-treated lumber at least 12" above the projected flood elevation. Place the furnace and water heater on masonry blocks or concrete at least 12" above the projected flood elevation.

1889 – Johnstown, PA: 2,200 deaths

1931 – China: 3,700,000 deaths

1887 – China: 900,000 deaths

Floods

During: When a flood warning has been announced.

Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated. Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information. Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve. If told to evacuate your home, do so immediately. If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, the attic, and if necessary, the roof. Floodwaters may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other disease-spreading substances. If you've come in contact with floodwaters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water. Avoid walking in floodwaters. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Don't drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. A car can be carried away by just 2 feet of flood water. Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Look out for animals -- especially snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods, too.

Floods

After The Flood: Call the agent who handles your flood insurance to file a claim.

Check for structural damage before re-entering your home. Don't go in if there is a chance of the building collapsing. Upon re-entering your property, do not use matches, cigarette lighters or other open flames since gas may be trapped inside. If you smell gas or hear hissing, open a window, leave quickly, and call the gas company from a neighbor's home. Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety. Check for sewage and water line damage. If you suspect damage, avoid using the toilets and the tap and call a plumber. Throw away any food -- including canned goods -- that has come in contact with floodwaters. Until authorities declare your water supply to be safe, boil water for drinking and food preparation. To make filing your claim easier, take photos of any water in the house and save damaged personal property. An insurance adjuster will need to see what's been damaged in order to process your claim.

Salvage water-damaged books, heirlooms and photographs with restoration tips from: http://www.fema.gov/hazards/floods/coping.shtm

Winter Storms 

They are accompanied by strong winds creating blizzard conditions with blinding wind-driven snow, severe drifting, and dangerous wind chill. Strong winds can knock down trees, utility poles, and power lines. Storms near the coast can cause coastal flooding and beach erosion as well as sink ships at sea.

Before… Be familiar with winter storm warning messages. Service snow removal equipment and have rock salt on hand to melt ice on walkways and kitty litter to generate temporary traction. Make sure you have sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off. Winterize your home: Insulate walls and attic. Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside. Have safe emergency heating equipment available. Fireplace with ample supply of wood. Small, well-vented, wood, coal, or camp stove with fuel. Portable space heaters. Install and check smoke detectors. Keep pipes from freezing. Have disaster supplies on hand, in case the power goes out.

1993 – E. Coast USA: 500 deaths

Winter Storms

During… If indoors: Stay indoors and dress warmly. Conserve fuel (lower the thermostat and close off unused rooms). Food provides the body with energy for producing its own heat.

If outdoors: Dress warmly (wear loose-fitting, layered, light-weight clothing). Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellant. Mittens are warmer than gloves because fingers generate warmth when they touch each other.

Stretch before you go out. If you go out to shovel snow, do a few stretching exercises to warm up your body. Also take frequent breaks. Cover your mouth. Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors. Try not to speak unless absolutely necessary. Avoid overexertion. Cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Be aware of symptoms of dehydration. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Help your neighbors who may require special assistance. If no shelter: Prepare a wind-break, or snow cave for protection from the wind. Build a fire for heat and to attract attention. Place rocks around the fire to absorb and reflect heat. Do not eat snow: It will lower your body temperature. Melt it first.

Winter StormsDuring…

In a car: Stay in your car. Disorientation occurs quickly in wind-driven snow and cold. Run the motor about ten minutes each hour for heat. Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked. Make yourself visible to rescuers (turn on the dome light at night when running engine, tie a colored cloth (preferably red) to your antenna or door, raise the hood indicating trouble after snow stops falling). Exercise from time to time by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers, and toes to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.

Frostbite: It can permanently damage its victims. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, or nose and ear lobes are symptoms of frostbite.

Hypothermia: When the body temperature drops to less than 95 °F. Symptoms: uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, drowsiness, and exhaustion.

Help: begin warming the person slowly and seek immediate medical assistance. Warm the person's trunk first. Use your own body heat to help. Arms and legs should be warmed last because stimulation of the limbs can drive cold blood toward the heart and lead to heart failure. Put person in dry clothing and wrap their entire body in a blanket. Never give a frostbite or hypothermia victim something with caffeine in it (like coffee or tea) or alcohol.

Thunderstorms & Lightning 

Precautions… Get inside a home, building or car (not convertible). Rubber-sole shoes and rubber tires provide NO protection from lightning. You are protected if you are not touching metal. Secure outdoor objects. Shutter windows and unplug appliances. Avoid showering – Plumbing fixtures can conduct electricity. Use a corded telephone only for emergencies – Cellular phones are safe. 30/30 RULE: Go indoors (if you hear no thunder within 30 secs from lightning). Stay indoor for 30 min (after the thunderstorm appears to have passed). Lightning often strikes as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall. It can travel sideways and strike under blue skies.

If you are… In a forest – Seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. In an open area – Go to a low place (ravine or valley). Be alert for flash floods. On open water – Get to land and find shelter immediately. Anywhere you feel your hair stand on end – Squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. DO NOT lie flat on the ground.

Lightning: Avg. 67 deaths per year in USA

Earthquakes    

An earthquake is a sudden movement of the earth, caused by the abrupt release of strain that has accumulated over a long time. For hundreds of millions of years, the forces of plate tectonics have shaped the earth, as the huge plates that form the earth’s surface slowly move over, under, and past each other. Sometimes, the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release the accumulating energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free.

Before: Repair defective electrical wiring, leaky gas lines, and inflexible utility connections. Get appropriate professional help. Do not work with gas or electrical lines yourself.

Bolt down and secure to the wall studs your water heater, refrigerator, furnace, and gas appliances. Install an automatic gas shut-off valve that is triggered by strong vibrations. Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves. Fasten shelves, mirrors, and large picture frames to walls. Brace high and top-heavy objects. Store glass, china, and other breakables on low shelves or in cabinets that fasten shut. Anchor overhead lighting fixtures. Be sure the residence is firmly anchored to its foundation. Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Locate safe spots in each room, under a sturdy table or against an inside wall. Hold earthquake drills with your family members: Drop, cover, and hold on!

1906 – San Francisco, CA: 500 deaths

1556 – China: 830,000 deaths

Earthquakes

During: Minimize your movements during an earthquake to a few steps to a nearby safe place. Stay indoors until the shaking has stopped and you are sure exiting is safe.

Indoors: Take cover under a sturdy desk, table, or bench or against an inside wall, and hold on. If there isn’t a table or desk near you, cover your face and head with your arms and crouch in an inside corner of the building.

Stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture. Stay in bed - if you are there when the earthquake strikes - hold on and protect your head with a pillow, unless you are under a heavy light fixture that could fall. In that case, move to the nearest safe place. Use a doorway for shelter only if it is in close proximity to you and if you know it is a strongly supported, load-bearing doorway. Stay inside until shaking stops and it is safe to go outside. Most injuries during occur when people are hit by falling objects when entering into or exiting from buildings. Be aware that the electricity may go out or the sprinkler systems or fire alarms may turn on. DO NOT use the elevators.

Earthquakes

Outdoors: Stay there. Move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.

In a moving vehicle: Stop as quickly as safety permits and stay in the vehicle. Avoid stopping near or under buildings, trees, overpasses, and utility wires. Proceed cautiously once the earthquake has stopped, watching for road and bridge damage.

Trapped under debris: Do not light a match.· Do not move about or kick up dust. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing. Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can locate you. Use a whistle if one is available. Shout only as a last resort - shouting can cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

After: Be prepared for aftershocks. These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent, but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures.

Open cabinets cautiously. Beware of objects that can fall off shelves. Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested. Be aware of possible tsunamis if you live in coastal areas. These are also known as seismic sea waves (mistakenly called “tidal waves”). When local authorities issue a tsunami warning, assume that a series of dangerous waves is on the way. Stay away from the beach.

Tornados / Hurricanes

Signs: Dark (often greenish sky), large hail, dark low-lying cloud (particularly if rotating), loud roar (similar to a freight train).

If A Tornado / Hurricane Warning Is Issued…

SECURE FILES, and lock up confidential documents.

TURN OFF ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT – And all other utilities (propane).

SECURE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

PROTECT EQUIPMENT, in order to minimize damage.

SECURE MATERIALS, which must be left outside.

PROTECT WINDOWS – Permanent storm shutters or board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood (cut to fit and ready to install).

SECURE ROOFS – Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten the roof to the main structure.

1900 – Gavelston, TX: Hurricane results in 6,000 to 12,000 deaths

Hurricanes

Atlantic Hurricane Season: June to November, peaking from August to October.

Beware: Widespread torrential rains (deadly floods), landslides, storm surges (a dome of water pushed onshore that can reach 25 feet high and be 50-100 miles wide, and storm tides (that can reach 20 feet high).

CAT 1: 74-95 mph winds, storm surge from 4 to 5 feet, minimal damage.

CAT 2: 96-110 mph winds, storm surge from 6 to 8 feet, moderate damage.

CAT 3: 111-130 mph winds, storm surge from 9 to 12 feet, extensive damage.

CAT 4: 131-155 mph winds, storm surge from 13 to 18 feet, extreme damage.

CAT 5: More than 155 mph winds, storm surge greater than 18 feet, catastrophic damage.

Number of Category 4 and 5 Hurricanes Has Doubled Over the Past 35 Years to 10 per year

Tornados

Spawned From Powerful Thunderstorms: Rotating, funnel-shaped cloud that extends from a thunderstorm to the ground with whirling winds that can reach 300 mph causing fatalities and devastating neighborhoods in seconds.

Facts… They generally occur near the trailing edge of the thunderstorm They may strike quickly, with little or no warning The average forward speed is 30 mph, varying from stationary to 70 mph. Waterspouts are tornadoes that form over water Peak tornado season is March through May They are more likely to occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

1925 – IN, IL, MO: Tornado results in 695 deaths,

Tornados / Hurricanes

 During The Tornado / Hurricane…

If You Are Inside: Stay indoors, away from windows and glass doors. Go to lowest floor (winds are stronger at higher elevations. Get under a heavy desk, table or proceed to the corner of the room and lie flat and put your arms over your head. If possible cover your body with a blanket or rug.

If You Are On The Road: Take shelter in a nearby steel-framed or concrete building, if possible. If no building is available, park your car and seek shelter away from the car in a nearby ditch or ravine. Protect your body and head with anything available (from flying debris). Don't go into a grove of trees or under a vehicle.

Tornados: Avg. 800 deaths per year in USA (1,500 injuries)

Tornados / Hurricanes

 After The Tornado / Hurricane…

DON'T RE-ENTER THE BUILDING, until instructed.

STAY AWAY FROM DOWNED ELECTRICAL WIRES AND UTILITY SERVICES.

LISTEN TO THE RADIO FOR WEATHER UPDATES.

DON'T USE THE TELEPHONE, unless necessary to report an injury or fire.

WHEN RE-ENTERING BUILDING, be alert to gas and water leaks, broken electrical wiring and ruptured sewer lines. Do not use a match or candle to check for leaking gas pipes - check for leaks on a gas line.

Terrorism   

Acts of terrorism include: assassinations; kidnappings; hijackings; bomb scares and bombings; cyber attacks (computer-based); and the use of chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological weapons.

High-risk targets: military and civilian government facilities, international airports, large cities, and high-profile landmarks. Terrorists might also target large public gatherings, water and food supplies, utilities, and corporate centers. Further, terrorists are capable of spreading fear by sending explosives or chemical and biological agents through the mail.

Guidelines: Be aware of your surroundings. Move or leave if you feel uncomfortable or if something does not seem right. Take precautions when traveling. Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Don’t leave luggage unattended. Promptly report unusual behavior, suspicious or unattended packages/devices to the police or security personnel. Learn where emergency exits are located in buildings you frequent. Plan how to get out in the event of an emergency. Be prepared to do without services you normally depend on: electricity, telephone, natural gas, gasoline pumps, cash registers, ATMs, and Internet transactions.

Chemical Threat  

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids, and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals, or plants (Sarin, Mustard Gas, Cyanide Gas, Phosgene, etc.). They can be released by bombs or sprayed from aircraft, boats, and vehicles. They can have an immediate effect (a few seconds to a few minutes) or a delayed effect (2 to 48 hours). A chemical attack could come without warning. Signs of a chemical release include people having difficulty breathing; experiencing eye irritation; losing coordination; becoming nauseated; or having a burning sensation in the nose, throat, and lungs. Also, the presence of many dead insects or birds may indicate a chemical agent release.

Watch For Signs: People having difficulty breathing; experiencing eye irritation; losing coordination; becoming nauseated; or having a burning sensation in the nose, throat, and lungs. Also, the presence of many dead insects or birds may indicate a chemical agent release.

ESCAPE THE AREA (where is the chemical coming from?), Leave the building or shelter-in-place?

IF SHELTER-IN-PLACE, Internal room (preferably with no windows and on the highest floor). Seal room with duct tape and plastic sheeting (pre-cut it). Listen to radio for instructions from

authorities.

Chemical Threat

Decontamination Guidelines… Use extreme caution when helping others who have been exposed to chemical agents. Remove all clothing and other items in contact with the body. Contaminated clothing normally removed over the head should be cut off to avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth. Put contaminated clothing and items into a plastic bag and seal it. Decontaminate hands using soap and water. Remove eyeglasses or contact lenses. Put glasses in a pan of household bleach to decontaminate them, and then rinse and dry. Flush eyes with water. Gently wash face and hair with soap and water before thoroughly rinsing with water. Decontaminate other body areas likely to have been contaminated. Blot (do not swab or scrape) with a cloth soaked in soapy water and rinse with clear water. Change into uncontaminated clothes. Clothing stored in drawers or closets is likely to be

uncontaminated.

MEDICAL ATTENTION: Proceed to a medical facility for screening and professional treatment.

Biological Threat 

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or incapacitate people, livestock, and crops. The three basic groups of biological agents that would likely be used as weapons are bacteria, viruses, and toxins (Anthrax, Botulism, Plague, Smallpox, Ebola, Ricin, etc.). Delivery methods include: Aerosols (dispersed into the air), Insects and Animals, Food and Water, and by Person-to-person contamination.

Before: Ensure all required or suggested immunizations are up to date. Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to biological agents.

A High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter removes particles in the 0.3 to 10 micron range and will filter out most biological agents that may enter your house.

During: If you become aware of an unusual and suspicious substance nearby: Move away quickly. Wash with soap and water. Contact authorities. Listen to the media for official instructions. Seek medical attention if you become sick.

If you are exposed to a biological agent:: Remove/bag your clothes and personal items (contaminated). Wash yourself with soap and water and put on clean clothes. Seek medical assistance. You may be quarantined.

2006

"The H5N1 virus could kill Up to one billion people around the whole

world in six months.... We are half a step away from

a worldwide pandemic catastrophe."

Dmitry K. Lvov, Director, D.I. Ivanovsky Institute of Virology,

Russian Academy of Medical Sciences

1918 – H5N1 killed 50 million people. (world population: 1.8 billion) - http://www.survivetheflu.com/

1347 – Bubonic Plague killed 25 million people just in Europe . (world population: 440 million)

Radiological Accident

 

It can occur wherever radioactive materials are used, stored or transported. In addition to nuclear power plants, hospitals, universities, research laboratories, industries, major highways, railroads or shipping yards.

Radioactive materials are composed of atoms that are unstable. An unstable atom gives off its excess energy until it becomes stable. The energy emitted is radiation.

People receive some radiation exposure each day from the sun, radioactive elements in the soil and rocks, household appliances like television sets and microwave ovens, and medical and dental x-rays. Radiation cannot be detected by sight, smell, or any other sense. There are three factors that minimize radiation exposure to your body:

Shielding: The thicker and harder material between yourself and the radioactive material, the less exposed you are (thick walls, concrete, bricks, books and earth). Fall-out shelter or Basement will protect you from the immediate effects of the blast and the pressure wave.

Distance: The further away you are from the radiation source, the lower your exposure.

Time: Minimizing the time spent exposed will also reduce your risk.

Radiological Accident

 

Before: Be prepared to evacuate or shelter in your home. Develop an emergency communication plan. have a plan for getting back together. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster.

During: Go to a basement or other underground area, if possible. Seal room with duct tape and plastic sheeting (pre-cut it). Listen to radio for instructions from authorities. DECONTAMINATE YOURSELF, by washing with soap and water and getting rid of all contaminated clothing (Put items worn outdoors in a plastic bag and seal it).

After: When the immediate danger has passed, avoid using foods from your garden or milk from your cows or goats until these can be inspected by a local emergency official. Contamination could affect areas as far as 50 miles from accident site. Stay inside until authorities say it is safe.

Note: A nuclear power plant accident would not cause the same widespread destruction as a nuclear weapon. Although radioactive materials could be released in a cloud or plume, no fallout is produced to endanger people.

Radiological Dispersion Device

 

Terrorist use of an RDD - often called “dirty nuke” or “dirty bomb” - is considered far more likely than use of a nuclear explosive device. An RDD combines a conventional explosive device with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. They require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a nuclear device. Radioactive materials in RDDs are widely used in medicine, agriculture, industry, and research, easier to obtain than weapons grade uranium or plutonium.

Purpose: To cause psychological fear and economic disruption. the number of deaths and injuries from an RDD might not be substantially greater than from a conventional bomb explosion.

Affected Area: The size of the affected area and the level of destruction caused by an RDD would depend on the sophistication and size of the conventional bomb, the type of radioactive material used, the quality and quantity of the radioactive material, and the local meteorological conditions - primarily wind and precipitation. The area affected could be placed off-limits to the public for several months during cleanup efforts.

Nuclear Blast 

A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, a damaging pressure wave, and widespread radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water, and ground surfaces for miles around. A nuclear device can range from a weapon carried by an intercontinental missile launched by a hostile nation or terrorist organization, to a small portable nuclear devise transported by an individual. All nuclear devices cause deadly effects when exploded, including blinding light, intense heat (thermal radiation), initial nuclear radiation, blast, fires started by the heat pulse, and secondary fires caused by the destruction.

Hazards: Size of the device: A more powerful bomb will produce more distant effects. Height above the ground the device was detonated: Extent of blast effects. Nature of the surface beneath the explosion: Some materials are more likely to become radioactive and airborne than others. Flat areas are more susceptible to blast effects. Existing meteorological conditions: Wind speed and direction will affect arrival time of fallout; precipitation may wash fallout from the atmosphere.

Nuclear Blast 

Radioactive Fallout: Any nuclear blast results in some fallout. Blasts that occur near the earth’s surface create much greater amounts of fallout than blasts that occur at higher altitudes. This is because the tremendous heat produced from a nuclear blast causes an up-draft of air that forms the familiar mushroom cloud. As the heat diminishes, radioactive materials that have vaporized condense on the particles and fall back to Earth. The phenomenon is called radioactive fallout. Radioactive fallout poses the greatest threat to people during the first two weeks, by which time it has declined to about 1 percent of its initial radiation level.

Electro Magnetic Pulse (EMP): A nuclear weapon detonated in or above the earth’s atmosphere can create an electro magnetic pulse (EMP), a high-density electrical field. An EMP can seriously damage electronic devices connected to power sources or antennas. This includes communication systems, computers, electrical appliances, and automobile or aircraft ignition systems. The damage could range from a minor interruption to actual burnout of components. Most electronic equipment within 1,000 miles of a high-altitude nuclear detonation could be affected. Battery-powered radios with short antennas generally would not be affected. Although an EMP is unlikely to harm most people, it could harm those with pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices.

Nuclear Blast 

Before: Make a list of potential shelters near your home, workplace, and school. During periods of increased threat increase your disaster supplies to be adequate for up to two weeks.

During: Take cover, below ground if possible, and stay there until instructed to do otherwise. Do not look at the flash or fireball - it can blind you. Take cover behind anything that might offer protection. Lie flat on the ground and cover your head. If the explosion is some distance away, it could take 30 seconds or more for the blast wave to hit. Take shelter as soon as you can, even if you are many miles from ground zero where the attack occurred - radioactive fallout can be carried by the winds for hundreds of miles.

After: Decay rates of the radioactive fallout are the same for any size nuclear device. However, the amount of fallout will vary based on the size of the device and its proximity to the ground. It might be necessary for those in the areas with highest radiation levels to shelter for up to a month.

People in most of the areas that would be affected could be allowed to come out of shelter within a few days and, if necessary, evacuate to unaffected areas.

Recovering from Disaster

  Health: Exhaustion, Drink plenty of water, eat well, wash hands often.

Safety: Watch for gas leak, broken glass, electrical hazards and slippery floors.

Emotional Stress: IF: difficulty sleeping, communicating, concentrating; frustration, depression, guilty, fear, headaches, tunnel vision, muffled hearing, etc. DO: seek help from professional counselors

and religious institutions, talk to others about your feeling, maintain a normal routine, spend time with family and friend, promote your own physical health.

Help Others: Volunteer! Helping others deal with their problems will improve you emotionally,

psychologically and physically.

Get Ready! Accepting the fact that disasters do happen. Opportunity to identify and collect

resources needed during and after a disaster. When people feel prepared, they cope better and so do children.

Workplace Violence 

1.7 million cases reported annually.Homicide is now second only to motor vehicles as a cause of work-related deaths.Over 5,000+ homicides at work over the past five years. (See high risk jobs)Corporate America spends about U$ 6.5 billion per year in the aftermath of workplace violence.Homicides and suicides continue to be one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities.UNDER REACTION TO VIOLENCE – “Violence is random and unpredictable”Warning Signs: Substance abuse, Severe Stress, Violent history, Decreased productivity, Social

isolation and poor peer relationships, Poor personal hygiene, Drastic changes in personality.

STAGE 1: Objectifying and dehumanizing others, Challenging authority, Regularly becoming augmentative, Alienating customers or clients, Originating and spreading lies about others, Swearing excessively (using sexually explicit language), Abusing others verbally, sexually harassing others. STAGE 2: Arguing frequently and intensely, Blatantly disregarding organizational policies and procedures, Setting traps for others, Stealing from the company or from co-workers, Making verbal threats, Conveying unwanted sexual or violent intensions (by letter, voice mail or e-mail), Blaming others for problems or difficulties. STAGE 3: Getting involved in physical confrontations, Displaying weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray, etc.), Attempting to or committing assault, sexual assault, homicide, arson or suicide.

Workplace Violence

 

Employers: Boost security with guards, locks, cameras, silent alarms, etc. Restrict entry with coded cards, name tags, and sign-in procedures Improve lighting, especially in hallways and parking areas Screen potential employees for violent criminal histories Ban weapons, harassment, assaults, and threats on the premises Prevent former employees from returning to the workplace Set up an employee hotline to report threats or bizarre behaviors Respond quick and firmly to workplace fights and threats Train employees to resolve conflicts peacefully Offer counseling to employees in distress

Employees: Follow your company’s security procedures Take extra care in stairways or elevators (if attacked on an elevator, punch all floor buttons and yell for help when the door opens) Avoid working late (have someone walk with you to your car, park in well-lit areas, check your car before unlocking it)

Violent Acts – Dangerous Intruder

Employees:

PERSONAL THREATS, HARASSING PHONE CALLS, FIGHTING, ROBBERY, MURDER… YOUR GOAL = Prevent anyone from being injured or killed. Calmness is contagious.

COOPERATE: Assailant will not harm anyone as long as he/she perceives that his/her objectives are being met. Remain calm and courteous (show respect for the person).

SHOOTING: Do NOT run! He/she believes you will call the police and jeopardize his/her objectives.

BE A GOOD WITNESS: Remember, write notes immediately. Who does he/she look like?

Traits: General built, Skin color, Eye color, Hair color/style, Mustache color/style, Glasses color/style, Clothes, Smell, Shoes, Speech type. Vehicle: Make, color, 2/4door, hatchback, truck, wheels, plate number.

CALL 9-1-1 and provide name of company, site's address and telephone number.

Civil Unrests

 

Employees:

ALL EMPLOYEES MUST USE ONE ENTRANCE: Designated by the Facility Coordinator.

EACH EMPLOYEE MUST DISPLAY A VALID PHOTO ID: To gain access to the facility.

ALL VISITORS MUST BE CLEARED: 24 hours prior to their arrival. The employee who the visitor is seeing will be responsible for obtaining the appropriate clearances.

ANY INDIVIDUAL WHO RECEIVES A THREAT: Or harassing behavior from demonstrators must immediately report it to the Facility Coordinator, through their supervisor.

EMPLOYEES SHOULD NOT ENGAGE IN DISPUTES WITH DEMONSTRATORS: The Facility Coordinator shall arrange protected parking lots, which will allow personnel to park and enter the building without walking through demonstrators.

ALL EXTERIOR DOORS MUST BE KEPT CLOSED: Exiting should be through the designated entrance point of the facility.

Bomb Threats

   

Employees:

DOCUMENT ALL THE INFORMATION THE CALLER GAVE: As precisely as possible.

NOTIFY THE FACILITY COORDINATOR: Manager or Supervisor.

EVACUATE: Once informed to do so.

NOTIFY SUPERVISORS OF UNUSUAL PACKAGES: Objects that do not belong in the work area.

NOTIFY SUPERVISORS OF ANY INDIVIDUALS: Vehicles in the area of the building, which appear to be suspicious in nature.

IF AN EXPLOSION OCCURS: Follow the fire emergency procedure.

Communication With The Media   

Employer:

DESIGNATE A MEDIA EMERGENCY SPOKESPERSON. No one should speak with the media other than the designated individual.

INITIALLY, THE MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE MUST DECLINE PROVIDING SPECIFIC COMMENTS TO THE PRESS UNTIL THE SITUATION HAS BEEN VERIFIED WITH ACCURATE INFORMATION. It is preferable to decline comments to the press until the situation is controlled. If no comments are provided, the media will still provide a news story. Providing information is a delicate issue and providing some type of information is less damaging than providing NO information.

THE DESIGNATED EMERGENCY SPOKESPERSON SHOULD BE TRAINED TO:

Release only information that is verified.

To respond honestly and briefly to media questions.

To provide information as quickly possible to meet press deadlines.

Be Safe! 

Tony Soares, Safety Director

Compensation Solutions, Inc.

tsoares@compsolutionsinc.comTel: 1-888-201-5680 Ext. 192