TERRORISM PREPAREDNESS

While the possibility of a terrorist attack can be frightening, there are steps you can take to prepare yourself, your family, and your community.

Before an Attack

Build an Emergency Kit: Keep enough supplies to shelter in place or evacuate if necessary. Consider having a kit at home, at work, and in your vehicle. Include:

Water and nonperishable food
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Flashlights and extra batteries
Prescription medications and medical supplies
Clothing, blankets, and other personal necessities
Copies of important documents
Emergency contact information

Make an Emergency Plan: Your family may not be together when an emergency occurs. Plan ahead for how you will communicate and where you will meet.

Choose meeting places near your home and outside your neighborhood.
Designate an out-of-area contact who can help family members communicate.
Remember that text messages may work when phone service is limited.
Learn your workplace, school, and childcare facility emergency plans.
Know your community's warning systems and evacuation routes.
Include caregivers and babysitters in your emergency plan.
Make arrangements for pets.

If an Attack Occurs

Stay calm and follow instructions from emergency officials.

Monitor local news and official emergency alerts for information and instructions.
If you are near the incident, move to a safe location and avoid the affected area.
Check yourself and others for injuries. Provide first aid if you can do so safely.
Do not enter damaged buildings or areas restricted by emergency personnel.
If you are at home and there is damage, avoid matches, candles, and electrical switches until you know it is safe to do so.
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave the building immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
Keep pets secure and follow instructions regarding evacuation or sheltering.
Limit phone calls to emergencies so communication networks remain available.
Check on neighbors who may need additional assistance, if it is safe to do so.

After an Attack

A terrorist attack may result in injuries, damaged infrastructure, road closures, evacuations, and disruptions to schools, workplaces, utilities, and transportation.

Follow instructions from local, state, and federal authorities.
Avoid affected areas and allow emergency responders to work.
Be prepared for temporary closures, evacuations, and travel restrictions.
Rely on official sources for information and avoid spreading unverified reports.
Be aware that stress, fear, and anxiety are common following a traumatic event. Seek assistance if you or someone in your household needs emotional or mental health support.
Be prepared for recovery and cleanup efforts to continue for an extended period.