Use This Activity to Motivate Students to Learn the Important Considerations That Affect

Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 1

Pre-Lecture I. You Are the Fire Fighter

Time: 5 Minutes Small Group Activity/Discussion

Use this activity to motivate students to learn the important considerations that affect their safety and operations when responding to an incident that involves potential terrorist actions.

Purpose To allow students an opportunity to explore the significance of developing and maintaining heightened awareness of the various considerations for responding to potential terrorist incidents in their community.

Instructor Directions 1. Direct students to read the “You Are the Fire Fighter” scenario found in the beginning of Chapter 34. 2. You may assign students to a partner or a group. Direct them to review the discussion questions at the end of the scenario and prepare a response to each question. Facilitate a class dialogue centered on the discussion questions. 3. You may also assign this as an individual activity and ask students to turn in their comments on a separate piece of paper.

Lecture I. What is Terrorism?

Time: 15 Minutes Slides: 1-11 Lecture/Discussion

A. Definition of Terrorism 1. Terrorism is the unlawful use of violence or threats of violence to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives. 2. The broad definition includes a wide range of acts committed by different groups for different purposes. 3. The FBI classifies terrorism as either domestic or international. a. Domestic terrorism refers to acts committed within the United States by individuals or groups that operate within the country without foreign influence. b. International terrorism includes any acts that transcend international boundaries. 4. Terrorism is a worldwide threat. a. Some 1,106 international terrorism incidents led to 2,494 innocent civilian deaths in 2000. b. Of the 864 terrorist incidents in 2001, the attack on the World Trade Center accounted for a majority of the 4,739 worldwide deaths. c. Within the United States, between 1994 and 1999, there were 24 terrorist incidents and three suspected crimes of a terrorist nature. i. During the same period, law enforcement agencies prevented 47 terrorist incidents. B. Fire Service Involvement in Terrorist Incidents Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 2

1. The role of the fire service in terrorism protection includes EMS, hazardous materials mitigation, technical rescue, and fire suppression. 2. The terrorism challenge is an unprecedented, unparalleled threat to fire fighters and emergency responders. a. Fire fighters must work closely with multiple agencies including: i. local, state and federal law enforcement agencies ii. emergency management agencies iii. allied health agencies iv. military b. Interagency coordination and cooperation is essential. c. Agencies must be prepared to face a wide range of potential situations. 3. The greatest threat posed by terrorists is the use of weapons of mass destruction (WMD). a. These devices are designed to cause maximum damage to property or people. b. Devices include conventional weapons and explosives, chemical, biologic, and radioactive agents. c. Thousands of casualties could result from a WMD attack in an urban area. d. An incident could overwhelm response agencies and the local health care system. 4. The fire service must adapt and prepare for threat of terrorist attacks by exploring new approaches and technologies to manage WMD incidents. 5. There is a priority need to improve the ability to identify and mitigate releases of chemical, biological, or radiological agents.

II. Potential Targets and Tactics

A. Terrorists are usually motivated by a cause. 1. Terrorists choose targets they believe will help achieve objectives. 2. The incidents are aimed to instill fear and panic, disrupt daily ways of life. 3. They may include symbolic targets like places of worship, a foreign embassy, or a monument or prominent government building. 4. The objective may be sabotage, with an attempt to destroy or disable a facility significant to the terrorist cause. 5. The ultimate goal is to cause economic turmoil and to interfere with transportation, trade, or commerce. 6. Terrorists chose an attack method to make desired statement or achieve maximum results. a. These methods may vary or change over time. b. Traditionally, explosive devices are the most commonly used. i. There has been a recent increase in suicide bombings. ii. The use of chemical and biologic agents is a new development to harm great numbers of people. 7. Terrorist incidents in 1980s involved hijackings with hostages that mostly affected aircraft and cruise ships. 8. The number of hostages ranged from a few to hundreds. a. Diplomats, journalists, and athletes were often targeted. b. Release of the hostages was offered in exchange for the release of imprisoned allies of the terrorist cause. c. Recent terrorist acts have endangered thousands of lives without the opportunity to bargain for release. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 3

B. Terrorism can occur in any community. 1. Typical targets and perpetrators may include: a. A rural ski lodge with expansion plans targeted by an environmental group. b. A small fur coat retailer in upscale community targeted by an animal rights group. c. A community health clinic targeted for bombing by an anti-abortion group. 2. There are many causes with supporters ranging from peaceful, nonviolent organizations to fanatical fringe groups. C. It is possible to anticipate likely targets and potential attacks. 1. Law enforcement agencies routinely gather intelligence on groups and targets. a. The information can be shared with fire departments for preincident planning. b. Fire department plans should include potential terrorist attacks as well as accidental fires. 2. News accounts of international incidents can update fire fighters to current trends that may be potentially applicable to local jurisdictions. 3. Internet resources and e-mail list servers can help fire fighters stay aware of current threats. 4. Familiarity with potential targets and current tactics helps to plan appropriate strategies and tactics for potential attacks. D. Ecoterrorism 1. Ecoterrorism includes illegal acts committed by groups supporting environmental or related causes. 2. Examples includes spiking trees to sabotage logging operations, vandalizing a laboratory that is conducting experiments on animals, or firebombing a store that sells fur coats. 3. Domestic ecoterrorism incidents are usually attributed to special interest groups like the Earth Liberation Front (ELF) and the Animal Liberation Front (ALF). E. Infrastructure targets 1. Terrorists might strike bridges, tunnels, or subways to disrupt transportation venues and inflict large number of casualties. 2. They could also attack the public utilities and services such as the public water supply, electrical power distribution systems, or the community 9-1-1 notification system or public safety radio network. 3. Public safety targets may directly affect emergency response agencies. F. Symbolic Targets 1. Monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Mount Rushmore may be targeted by groups seeking to attack symbols of national pride and accomplishment. 2. Groups promoting revolution or protesting internal policies of the respective country may attack foreign embassies and institutions. 3. Religious institutions and visible icons are potential targets of hate groups. 4. The intent of targeting symbols is to increase awareness of demands and create a public sense of fear. G. Civilian Targets 1. Locations of mass assembly such as shopping malls, schools, and stadiums are targeted to kill the maximum number of potential victims. 2. The goal is to create pervasive fear and vulnerability during daily activities. 3. Letter bombs and letters containing biologic agents aim for similar effect. H. Cyberterrorism 1. Groups may engage in an electronic attack on government or private computer systems. 2. Attempts are made to disrupt the Internet, attack government computer systems and other critical networks. I. Agroterrorism could include the use of chemical or biologic agents to attack the agricultural industry or the food supply. 1. The introduction of disease to livestock populations could result in billions of dollars in financial loss.

III. Agents and Devices

Time: 120 Minutes Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 4

Slides: 27-54 Lecture/Discussion

A. Terrorists can use several different kinds of weapons in an attack. 1. Bombings are the most frequent terrorist acts. 2. Fire fighters need to be aware of other potential weapons. a. An automatic weapon discharged in large assembly by single terrorist can result in devastating carnage. b. The release of a microscopic biologic agent can afflict or kill thousands of victims. c. A computer virus attack on the financial industry can result in a serious economic loss. 3. Planning should consider a full range of possibilities. B. Explosives and Incendiary Devices 1. FBI Bomb Data Center reports a substantial increase in number of domestic bombings. a. In the 1987-1997 statistics: 23,613 bombing incidents, resulting in 448 deaths and 4,170 injuries b. Incendiary devices account for 20-25% of all U.S. bombing incidents. c. Groups or individuals use bombs to further causes; to intimidate co-workers or former spouses; to take revenge, and to experiment with bomb recipes found in books or on Internet. 2. There are thefts of thousands of pounds of explosives annually. a. Construction sites, mines, military facilities, and others are victims. b. It is unknown if materials are destined for terrorist or criminal activity. c. Terrorists can create blasting agents from commonly available materials such as ammonium nitrate and fuel oil (ANFO). 3. Improvised explosive device (IED) is any explosive device fabricated in an improvised manner, contained in any type of packaging from letter bomb to truckload of explosives. a. The Unabomber constructed at least 16 bombs delivered through the postal service. b. The World Trade Center (1993) and the Murrah Federal Building (1995) bombings involved vehicles loaded with ANFO, detonated by a simple timer. 4. Pipe bombs are the most common IED. a. It is a length of pipe filled with explosive substance and rigged with a detonator. b. Simple pipe bombs made from black powder or, smokeless powder, can be ignited by a hobby fuse. c. More sophisticated pipe bombs may use a variety of chemicals, incorporate electronic timers, mercury or vibration switches, photocells, or remote controlled detonators. d. Sometimes pipe bombs are packed with nails or other objects to inflict optimal injury. e. A chemical, biologic, or radiological agent could be added. f. Experts can only speculate as to the resulting number of casualties. 5. Secondary devices are intended to explode after the initial event. a. They are designed to injure or kill emergency responders, law enforcement personnel, spectators, or news reporters. b. The goal is to attack the best-trained, most experienced investigators and emergency responders and to increase the levels of fear and chaos following an initial attack. c. This is a common tactic abroad, and there have been several North American incidents. d. In 1998, a Georgia abortion clinic explosion was followed one hour later by a second explosion injuring seven people (including two emergency responders). e. A similar secondary device was discovered one month later at a bombing in a nearby community and was disabled before detonation. 6. Joint training with local, state, and federal agencies charged with handling explosives devices should occur on a regular basis. a. These agencies include the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), and military explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) units. 7. Training and necessary equipment must be provided for designated fire fighters in jurisdictions where fire departments are responsible for handling explosive devices. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 5

a. Fire fighters need to consult SOPs for specific policies on bombing incidents. b. A response to a potentially explosive device that has not yet exploded requires initial civilian evacuation and establishment of perimeter at safe distance. c. DO NOT HANDLE the explosive device. i. Only trained EOD personnel (law enforcement, military, bomb squad) should assess a device and render it inoperative. d. The fire department should establish an initial command post and staging area. i. Set the staging area at least 3,000' from incident site as precaution against secondary device detonation. ii. Establish a unified command to coordinate multi-agency actions. e. An emergency action plan must be developed for an on-site disarming. i. Precautions must be taken against an accidental detonation. ii. A safe staging area should be determined by the IC, in a joint command structure. f. A forward staging area may need to be established. i. It should be staffed by a rapid intervention team (RIT) to rescue bomb disposal team. ii. Additional responders should remain in the remote staging area. 8. For a high-rise building, the RIT may be staged several floors below for quick response, with other units staged several blocks away. There are actions to be taken following an explosion. a. Always consider that the explosive was detonated and not accidental unless proven otherwise. b. Scene safety is always a first priority. c. Consider the possibility of secondary device. i. Perform a quick survey for suspicious bags, packages, etc. ii. Immediately use monitoring equipment to detect potential contaminants. d. The initial size-up will include a hazard assessment. e. The structural stability must be confirmed before any entry is permitted. i. If entry is essential, confirm there is proper training and equipment. ii. Entering an unstable area without proper training and equipment may complicate the rescue and recovery efforts. C. Chemical Agents 1. Have the potential to kill and/or injure the greatest number of people 2. Chemical weapons such as phosgene, chlorine, and mustard agents were used in World War I, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries. 3. Chemical weapons were used in the 1980s during the Iran–Iraq war and the Kurdish conflict. 4. Although international agreements prohibit the use of chemical and biologic agents during wartime, potential exists for use by terrorists. a. In 1995, sarin gas was released into the Tokyo subway system by the Aum Shinrikyo religious cult and produced 12 deaths and more than 1,000 injuries. i. The relatively small number of casualties deemed the attack ineffective despite the exposure of thousands of subway riders. ii. It was effective in instilling fear in a large population. iii. A previous sarin attack in Matsumoto killed seven and injured 300. 5. The basic instructions for making chemical weapons are available through many sources, including books, the Internet, and other publications. a. Many require chemicals that are easily obtained. b. Many chemicals that are classified as weapons of mass destruction are routinely used in a legitimate industry. i. Chlorine is used in swimming pools and water treatment facilities but is classified as a choking agent due to its inhalation hazard and severe pulmonary damage. ii. Cyanide compounds are used in the production of paper and synthetic textiles, photography and printing processes, and are widely stored and transported in various sized containers using conventional transportation modes. 6. Chemical weapons can be disseminated in several ways. a. A simple release of chlorine gas from a storage tank in an unguarded rail yard could kill or injure thousands. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 6

b. Chemical agent can be added to an explosive device. c. Crop-dusting aircraft, truck-mounted spray units, or hand-operated pump tanks can disperse an agent over a wide area. 7. Protection from Chemical Agents a. Air flow is the most common dispersal method for chemical agents. i. Agents released outdoors will follow wind currents. ii. Agents released indoors will be dispersed through a building's air circulation system. b. If fire fighters detect an unusual or distinctive odor at an emergency scene, full PPE with SCBA is required. c. NEVER rely on your senses to detect the presence of a chemical agent; monitor with the appropriate detection devices. 8. Nerve agents are toxic substances that attack the central nervous system. a. They were first developed in Germany before World War II. b. Stockpiles are maintained today in several countries. c. Nerve agents are 100 to 1,000 times more toxic than similar pesticides. d. Exposure could result in injury or death within minutes. e. In their normal state, common nerve agents are liquids. i. The potential impact is low because direct contact is needed for contamination. ii. For effective contamination, the liquid must be aerosolized into fine droplets that can be inhaled or distributed on the skin. iii. Distribution in a liquid form may incite fear and panic. iv. The agent's effectiveness depends on how long it remains in a liquid state and how widely it is dispersed. f. Sarin is the most volatile nerve agent but since its evaporation rate is about the same as water and it is not considered persistent. g. V-agent or VX is the most stable nerve agent and is considered persistent because its evaporation takes several days. h. Nerve agent exposure symptoms are evident within minutes. i. Pinpoint pupils ii. Runny nose iii. Drooling iv. Difficulty breathing v. Tearing vi. Twitching vii. Diarrhea viii. Convulsions or seizures ix. Loss of consciousness i. A common fire service mnemonic (SLUDGE) helps fire fighters to remember the symptoms. i. S-salivation (drooling) ii. L-lacrimation (tearing) iii. U-urination iv. D-defecation v. G-gastric upset vi. E-emesis (vomiting) j. Mark 1 Nerve Agent Antidote Kit has been developed by the U.S. military. i. It contains atropine and pralidoxime chloride (2-PAM). ii. It is designed for quick injection to exposed personnel. iii. It is issued to some fire department hazardous materials teams. 9. Contact with either of the two common blister agents produces skin blisters. a. Sulfur mustard (H) is a clear, yellow or amber, oily liquid with faint sweet mustard or garlic odor that vaporizes slowly at temperate climates may be dispersed in an aerosol form. b. Lewisite(L) is an oily, colorless-to-dark-brown liquid that has an odor of geraniums. c. Both cause painful blisters. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 7

d. Lewisite causes pain immediately upon contact with skin but mustard gas symptoms may not appear for several hours. e. Both produce pain at the exposure site, reddened skin, and blisters. f. Patients also exhibit itchy, burning, and red eyes. g. Inhalation of mustard gas produces significant lung damage. 10. Two common choking agents are phosgene (CG) and chlorine (CL). a. Both were used extensively as weapons in World War I. b. Both have industrial applications as well. c. Both cause severe pulmonary damage and asphyxia. d. Choking agents are heavier than air and tend to settle in low areas such as subways, basements, and sewers. i. Fire fighters wearing full PPE with SCBA should evacuate people from low areas when there is a possibility of choking agents. e. Exposure to high concentrations of choking agents immediately irritate the eyes, nose, and upper airway and causes pulmonary edema to develop within hours. f. Exposure to low concentrations may not produce initial symptoms but patients can experience lung damage. g. Both choking agents will cause skin burns on contact, although absorption is unlikely. h. To decontaminate a contact exposure, remove the exposed individuals from the area and flush the affected skin with water. 11. Blood agents are highly toxic agents that can cause death within minutes of exposure. a. The most common agents are cyanide compounds such as Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and Cyanogen chloride (CK) which are found in industry. b. Blood agents can be inhaled or ingested. c. Cyanide gas is typically associated with the death penalty and the gas chamber. d. In 1978, liquid cyanide was mixed with fruit punch and caused the mass suicide of 913 religious cult members in Guyana. e. When exposed, symptoms occur quickly and include the gasping for air and if the exposure is significant, the skin may appear red. i. Seizures are also possible. f. Complete and rapid evacuation of the area is the best action for an exposure. D. Biologic Agents 1. Biologic agents are organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins that cause diseases and attack the body. 2. Some live in the ground for years (anthrax) while others are rendered harmless when exposed to sunlight for a short time. 3. The highest potential for infection is by inhalation, but injection, ingestion, and absorption are also possible. 4. The effects depend on the specific organism or toxin, the dose and the route of entry. a. Some biologic agents (such as smallpox) are contagious. 5. Physicians are very concerned about contagious diseases that may be used as weapons. a. The resulting epidemics could overwhelm the health care systems. 6. There is a growing concern that terrorists will use biologic weapons against a civilian population. 7. Anthrax is an infectious disease that is caused by the Bacillus anthracis bacteria found in farm animals and livestock. a. When cultured into anthrax spores it can be used as a weapon and dispersed in variety of ways. b. 8,000 to 10,000 spores are typically required to cause an anthrax infection. c. Spores that infect the skin cause cutaneous anthrax. d. Ingested spores cause gastrointestinal anthrax. e. Inhaled spores cause inhalational anthrax. f. In 2001, four letters containing anthrax were mailed to East Coast locations. i. Five deaths resulted, including two postal workers who were exposed as letters passed through their postal sorting center worksites. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 8

ii. Several major government buildings required decontamination and were shut down for weeks. iii. The proximity to September 11, 2001 caused public concern, and resulted in thousands of suspicious package incidents requiring an emergency response and evaluation. g. The World Health Organization publication (1970), used as a reference on anthrax dangers, found that 110 lbs. of anthrax sprayed over an urban area with 500,000 residents could cause 220,000 deaths. 8. Smallpox is a highly infectious disease caused by the virus Variola, which kills approximately 30% of those infected. a. By 1980, smallpox was successfully eradicated as a health threat, through the use of an extremely effective vaccine. b. Some nations maintained smallpox cultures for research, which could be used to develop biologic weapons. c. There is concern that international terrorist groups may have acquired the virus. d. Smallpox can be dispersed in aerosol form over a wide area. e. Due to its highly contagious nature, a small number of infected persons could lead to rapid spread of the virus. f. It is easily spread by direct contact, droplet, and through airborne transmission. g. Infected patients require quarantine until the last scab falls off. h. The worldwide vaccination program was discontinued in 1980. i. Currently, there are millions of non-vaccinated persons in the world. ii. There are millions more with reduced immunity because their last immunization was decades ago. 9. Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and is commonly found in rodents. a. There are three forms: bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic b. The bacterium is most easily transmitted to humans by fleas that feed on infected animals and then bite humans. i. Those who are bitten usually become infected with the bubonic plague, which affects the lymph nodes. c. Inhalation of the bacterium results in pneumonic plague. d. The plague bacteria can survive for weeks in water, soil, or grains. e. It has been cultured as a weapon in an aerosol form that would put target populations at risk from pneumonic plague. 10. Dealing with Biologic Agents a. It is unlikely that responders will recognize the release of a biologic agent in the community. b. The incubation period is the time period between the actual infection and the appearance of symptoms. i. Typically, symptoms would manifest over a period of days after an exposure. ii. If left untreated, these diseases would cause death in a large proportion of the infected population. c. Typically, the first recognition will be by the CDC and area hospitals because a large number of individuals with similar symptoms are present at the hospitals. i. Multiple medical calls to patients with similar symptoms are a clue for emergency responders, especially if the location is considered a potential terrorist target. d. Experts anticipate a crop-dusting plane or a garden sprayer will spread a biologic weapon. i. Residents may develop flu-like symptoms after a release. ii. The symptoms may not appear for two to ten days after the agent is released. e. Fire fighters are urged to follow department guidelines for universal precautions and body substance isolation, including the use of appropriate PPE. f. Emergency responders who are experiencing flu-like symptoms after a potential terrorist incident should seek immediate medical care and report any possible exposure to department officials. g. Post-incident actions may include medical screening, testing or vaccinations. E. Radiological Agents 1. Detonation of a nuclear bomb is unlikely but should not be ignored. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 9

a. There is a limited ability to acquire the weapons-grade fuel needed to cause a nuclear explosion. b. Terrorists could obtain and detonate a suitcase nuclear weapon small enough to fit into a small package. c. More probable and a much different scenario is the use of radiological agents, dispersed in a variety of ways to contaminate an area with radioactive materials. d. A radiation dispersal device (RDD), also known as a “dirty bomb,” is described as "any device that causes the purposeful dissemination of radioactive material across an area without a nuclear detonation.” i. Packing radioactive material around a conventional explosive could contaminate a wide area. ii. The size of the area depends on the amount of radioactive material and the power of the explosive device. e. To limit the threat, even small amounts of radioactive material must be kept secure and protected. i. The material is common in industry and in health care (X-Ray). ii. The necessary materials could be obtained from medical clinics, nuclear power plants, university research labs, or some industrial complexes. f. Materials are routinely transported in small containers and if stolen, terrorists could construct a bomb with a small quantity of radioactive material. g. Security experts are also concerned that a large explosive device could be detonated near a nuclear power plant. i. The explosion of a truck bomb could damage the reactor containment vessel sufficiently to release the radioactive material. ii. A large aircraft could also be used to damage a nuclear reactor. F. Radiation 1. Radioactive materials release energy in the form of electromagnetic waves or energy particles. 2. Radiation does not glow and has no smell or taste. 3. Several instruments can detect the presence of radiation and measure the dose rates. a. Fire fighters need to become familiar with their department's radiological detection equipment. 4. There are three types of radiation: Alpha particles; Beta particles; Gamma rays. a. Alpha particles quickly lose energy and travel only 1" to 2" from the source. i. They can be stopped by clothing or a sheet of paper. ii. If ingested or inhaled, they can damage a number of internal organs. b. Beta particles are more powerful and are capable of traveling 10' to 15' from the source. i. They can be stopped by metal, glass, or plastic. ii. They are harmful to both the skin and the eyes, and ingestion or inhalation can damage internal organs. c. Gamma rays travel significant distances, can penetrate most materials, and will pass through the body. i. They are the most destructive to the human body. ii. They can be stopped only by dense materials such as concrete, earth, or lead. G. Effects of Radiation 1. The symptoms of low-level radiation exposure include nausea and vomiting. 2. An exposure to high-level radiation causes bone marrow destruction, nerve and digestive system damage, and radiation skin burns. 3. An extreme exposure may cause death rapidly, however a considerable time usually passes before radiation poisoning symptoms become obvious. a. As the effects progress over the years, a prolonged death due to leukemia or carcinoma is likely. 4. A contaminated person has radioactive material on exposed skin and clothing. 5. In severe cases, contamination could penetrate to the internal organs. 6. Decontamination is required to remove the particles. a. Inadequate decontamination could spread contamination to ambulances, hospitals, and other locations where individuals or equipment are transported. 7. Due to the potential for exposure, rescuers must be protected by the appropriate PPE and shielding depending on a particular contaminant. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 10

a. Rescuers must be decontaminated after contact with a contaminated individual. 8. Radiation exposure can occur without direct contact with radioactive material. a. Common routes of radiation exposure include inhalation, absorption, or ingestion. b. Person can be injured by radiation exposure without contamination from the material itself. 9. Exposure without contamination requires no special handling. 10. There are three ways to limit exposure to radioactivity. a. Keep the time of the exposure as short as possible. b. Stay as far away from the radiation source as possible. c. Use shielding to limit the amount of radiation absorbed by the body. i. Firefighting PPE generally provides an adequate shielding from Alpha particles. ii. SCBA is needed to protect against Beta particles. iii. Heavy shielding is needed for Gamma rays. 11. Fire fighter entry into areas of potential radioactive contamination requires the use of a personal dosimeter to measure the amount of radioactive exposure. 12. Rescue attempts should be made as quickly as possible to reduce the exposure time.

IV. Operations

A. Emergency response to a terrorist incident puts all responders at an additional risk. 1. The terrorist objective is to cause as much harm as possible. 2. Responders are just as likely to be targets as civilians. 3. Initial dispatch could be for an explosion, hazmat, single individual with difficulty breathing, or multiple patients with similar symptoms. a. Evidence of terrorist incident may not immediately be known. b. Observations and information from witnesses may point to a terrorist possibility. 4. It is important to take all precautions, stay alert for factors that suggest possibility of terrorist act, and implement appropriate procedures. a. Always consider the possibility when dispatched to a potential terrorist target area. b. The true nature of an incident could be difficult to determine until a size- up is conducted. B. Initial Actions 1. Approach known or potential terrorist incident as if it is a hazardous materials scene. a. Do not rule out potential chemical, biologic, or radiological agents until the hazardous materials team checks the area with detection and monitoring instruments. b. Approach from uphill and upwind. c. Don full PPE and SCBA. d. Stage arriving units at an appropriate distance from the incident. 2. The first arriving units should establish an outer perimeter to control access to and from the scene. a. Deny access to all but authorized emergency responders. b. Deny egress of potentially contaminated individuals until decontaminated. c. Ensure that the perimeter completely surrounds an affected area to minimize additional victims. 3. Incident Command should be established in a safe location as much as 3,000' from the incident. a. The command post must be outside the area of possible contamination. b. The command post must be beyond the distance where a secondary device could be planted. 4. The initial priority is to determine the nature of the situation, types of potential hazards, and the magnitude of problems to be faced. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 11

a. Deploy the initial reconnaissance ("recon") team to determine the number of affected people, the nature and severity of injuries, and any structural damage. b. The recon team must wear full PPE and SCBA. c. Conduct the initial survey very cautiously, but as rapidly as possible. d. Use instruments and monitors to rule out chemical, biologic, or radiological agents. e. Responders must not touch liquids or solids or walk through pools of liquid. f. Any responders who may have been contaminated must not leave area until decontaminated. g. A process of elimination may be needed to determine the nature of incident. h. Survey occupants and witnesses for observation of any unusual packages, strange odors, mists, or sprays. i. Large number of casualties with no outward trauma could indicate possible chemical agent exposure. j. Check for symptoms of breathing difficulty, skin irritations, or seizures. k. Check for a visible vapor cloud, a strong indicator of chemical release, which could be an accident or terrorist attack. l. Check for dead or dying animals, insects or plant life as indicators of a chemical agent release. m. Consider the possibility of a terrorist bombing incident, and the potential for a secondary explosive device when approaching the scene of an explosion. i. Note any suspicious packages and notify the IC. ii. NEVER touch or move suspicious object unless properly trained. iii. Explosive ordinance personnel should examine and disable suspicious articles. C. Interagency Coordination 1. If a terrorist incident is suspected, the IC should consult with local law enforcement officials immediately. 2. If it is a mass-casualty incident, the IC should notify the area hospitals and activate the local medical response system. 3. Request the local technical rescue teams to evaluate structural damage and initiate rescue operations. 4. Notify the state emergency management officials as soon as possible. a. This helps ensure a quick response by both state and federal resources to a major incident. 5. A large scale search-and-rescue incident could require the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) task forces available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). a. Medical response teams, such as Disaster Medical Assistance Teams (DMAT), may be needed for incidents involving large numbers of people. 6. An Emergency Operations Center (EOC) can coordinate actions of the involved agencies, particularly if terrorism is involved. a. It is typically set up in a predetermined remote location and staffed by highly experienced command and staff personnel. b. The IC should provide detailed situation reports to the EOC and request additional resources as needed. 7. Fire fighters must remember that a terrorist incident is a crime scene. a. To preserve evidence, do not disturb scenes any more than necessary to assist with the treatment and removal of injured parties or to extinguish a fire. b. Where possible consult law enforcement prior to overhaul or the removal of any material from scene. c. One or more terrorists could be among the injured. i. Stay alert for threatening behavior. ii. Be aware of anyone who seems determined to leave the scene. D. Decontamination 1. Everyone exposed to chemical, biologic, or radiological agents must be decontaminated to remove or neutralize the substances on their bodies or clothing. 2. Decontamination should occur as soon as possible to prevent further absorption and spreading of contaminant. 3. Equipment must be decontaminated before it leaves the scene. 4. A designated perimeter must fully surround the area of known or suspected contamination. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 12

a. Make every effort to avoid contaminating additional areas, particularly hospitals and medical facilities. b. Qualified personnel must monitor the perimeter with instruments or detection devices to ensure against the spread of contaminants. 5. A standard decontamination involves a series of stations. a. At each station clothing and PPE are removed, and the individual is cleaned. i. Some contaminants require soap and water. ii. Chemical and biologic agents may require special neutralizing solutions. b. A terrorist incident with a large number of casualties may require a different decontamination process. 6. Special procedures for mass decontamination have been devised for incidents involving hundreds or thousands of people. a. High volume, low-pressure showers of water from master stream devices allow for rapid decontamination of large numbers of people. b. Master streams are typically deployed from engine companies and aerial apparatus. 7. Emergency responders who enter a contaminated area must be decontaminated before leaving the area. a. Contaminated clothing and equipment must remain inside the perimeter. b. The perimeter may be maintained for an extended period of time until the entire incident scene has been decontaminated. 8. The decontamination period could take weeks or months depending on the incident. E. Mass-Casualties 1. A terrorist or WMD incident may result in a large number (hundreds or thousands) of casualties. 2. Special mass-casualty plans are essential. a. The capabilities of the normal emergency response systems can be overwhelmed. b. Plans will usually involve resources from multiple agencies to efficiently handle large numbers of patients. c. The basics of mass-casualty operations are described in Chapter 24, Emergency Medical Care. d. A plan must expand to cover additional complications and considerations, including contamination by chemical, biologic, or radiological agents. e. If contamination is suspected, a plan must ensure it does not spread beyond the perimeter. f. To keep areas clear of contaminants, patients may need to be decontaminated as they are moved to triage and treatment areas. i. Triage and treatment areas may be considered contaminated zones. ii. Patients are to be decontaminated before transported from the scene. 3. Initially it may be difficult to determine the agent(s) used so that appropriate treatment and decontamination can be instituted. a. It may be necessary to quarantine exposed individuals until laboratory test results are evaluated. 4. A strategic plan must assume the contamination of any personnel providing patient assistance or treatment and the equipment or vehicles used in the contaminated area. F. Additional Resources 1. A terrorist incident is likely to result in a massive response from local, state, and federal agencies. a. The FBI is the lead agency for crisis management. b. FEMA is the lead agency for consequence management. c. Several federal agencies have specific responsibilities at terrorist incidents. 2. Funding for programs to train and equip local emergency responders has increased significantly since September 11, 2001. 3. Department of Homeland Security coordinates the funding to train and equip local responders. a. It is established as a Cabinet-level department. 4. The Homeland Security Advisory System provides quick, comprehensive information about potential threat of terrorist attacks or threat levels. a. Low Condition (Green): Low risk of terrorist attacks b. Guarded Condition (Blue): General risk of terrorist attacks c. Elevated Condition (Yellow): Significant risk of terrorist attacks d. High Condition (Orange): High risk of terrorist attacks Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 13

e. Severe Condition (Red): Severe risk of terrorist attacks 5. Internet resources provide additional information and training materials. a. U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense (http://chemdef.apgea.army.mil/) b. U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (http://www.usamriid.army.mil) c. National Homeland Security Knowledgebase (http://www.twotigersonline.com/resources.html)

V. Summary

A. Fire service is responsible for response to the consequences of terrorist acts. 1. Responding fire fighters must follow standard operating procedures and take safety precautions. 2. Additional training on terrorism and WMD available from several sources 3. Fire fighters should become familiar with potential terrorist targets in the local area, the tactics, devices and characteristics of agents used by terrorists, and the signs and symptoms of exposure. B. Fire fighters must take special safety precautions at terrorist incidents. 1. Anticipate the release of a chemical, biologic, or radiological device. 2. Maintain a safe distance, uphill and upwind until the situation is evaluated. 3. Complete PPE with SCBA are required for anyone with potential agent contact. 4. Improper use of PPE can result in serious health effects. C. Responders must remember that terrorists intend to cause as much harm as possible. 1. Be aware of the potential for secondary devices at terrorist incidents. 2. Devices may be planted to kill or injure emergency responders and law enforcement personnel. D. A terrorist incident involving chemical, biologic, or radiological agents requires decontamination procedures. 1. All contaminated people, equipment, and vehicles must be decontaminated before leaving the scene. 2. Decontamination may be complicated by the large numbers of exposed individuals. E. Terrorist incidents have the potential for massive numbers of casualties. 1. Mass casualty plans must be implemented to assemble the necessary resources and assure the appropriate direction of care. 2. Multiple federal, state, and local agencies will perform designated functions and provide services to reinforce the local resources.

Post-Lecture I. Wrap-Up Activities

Time: 40 Minutes Small Group Activity/Individual Activity/Discussion

A. Fire Fighter in Action Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 14

This activity is designed to assist the student in gaining a further understanding of terrorism awareness. The activity incorporates both critical thinking and the application of fire fighter knowledge.

Purpose This activity allows students an opportunity to analyze a firefighting scenario and develop responses to critical thinking questions.

Instructor Directions 1. Direct students to read the “Fire Fighter in Action” scenario located in the Wrap-Up section at the end of Chapter 34. 2. Direct students to read and individually answer the quiz questions at the end of the scenario. Allow approximately 10 minutes for this part of the activity. Facilitate a class review and dialogue of the answers, allowing students to correct responses as needed. Use the answers noted below to assist in building this review. Allow approximately 10 minutes for this part of the activity. 3. You may also assign these as individual activities and ask students to turn in their comments on a separate piece of paper.

Answers to Multiple Choice Questions 1. Answer E: All of these factors are potential indicators of a terrorist incident. 2. Answer C: Several concerns will have to be addressed at this incident to evaluate the situation and develop an appropriate action plan. The most immediate concern is to prevent additional persons from being exposed to a potential agent and to limit the area of potential contamination. 3. Answer E: All of these actions should be initiated as soon as possible. Incident command must be established to manage the incident and additional resources will be required to begin taking action. The cause of the problem cannot be determined until there are sufficient resources on the scene to conduct a complete size-up. In the meantime efforts should be directed toward containing the problem and preventing the exposure of additional patients. Moving the patients away from the entrance to a treatment area should reduce the possibility that they will continue to be exposed to a contaminant that could be in the air in the subway station. 4. Answer B: The incident commander will have to carefully evaluate the situation to determine the appropriate level of protective clothing and equipment. The information provided up to this point suggests that firefighting PPE and self- contained breathing apparatus should provide adequate protection for members entering to evacuate any remaining occupants. Any indication of more critical symptoms might cause the incident commander to wait until personnel with Level A hazardous materials ensembles are available to enter the station. 5. Answer D: At this point the hazardous materials team should be able to enter the subway station and attempt to identify the substance. If the substance can be identified quickly the best course of action can be determined.

B. Technology Resources This activity requires students to have access to the Internet. This may be accomplished through personal access, employer access, or through a local educational institution. Some community colleges, universities, or adult education centers may have classrooms with Internet capability that will allow for this activity to be completed in class. Check out local access points and encourage students to complete this activity as part of their ongoing reinforcement of firefighting knowledge and skills.

Purpose To provide students an opportunity to reinforce chapter material through use of online Internet activities.

Instructor Directions 1. Use the Internet and go to www.FireFighter.jbpub.com. Follow the directions on the web site to access the exercises for Chapter 34. 2. Review the chapter activities and take note of desired or correct student responses. 3. As time allows, conduct an in-class review of the Internet activities and provide feedback to students as needed. 4. Be sure to check the web site before assigning these activities, as specific chapter-related activities may change from time to time. Chapter 34: Terrorism Awareness 15

II. Lesson Review

Time: 15 Minutes Discussion Note: Facilitate the review of this lesson’s major topics using the review questions as direct questions or overhead transparencies. Answers are found throughout this lesson plan.

A. How do you define terrorism and its two major classifications? B. What are the basic roles and functions of the fire service in protecting communities from terrorism? C. What is considered to be the greatest threat posed by terrorists? Why? D. What is said to motivate most terrorist attacks? E. What are the potential targets for terrorist actions? How do they support terrorist goals? F. What can fire fighters do to anticipate likely targets and potential terrorist attacks? G. What are the three basic types of terrorist acts described in this chapter? What are some of their potential targets? H. What types of explosive devices are commonly associated with terrorist attacks? I. What types of chemical agents are associated with terrorist attacks? J. What types of biologic agents are associated with terrorist attacks? K. What types of radiological agents are associated with terrorist attacks? L. What initial actions should be taken in the event of a response to a potential terrorist incident? M. What decontamination procedures are necessary for exposure to chemical, biologic, and radiological agents resulting from a terrorist attack? N. What resources and policies are to be considered when responding to a terrorist incident involving large numbers of casualties? O. What additional resources are available to responding departments in the event of a terrorist attack?

III. Assignments

Time: 5 Minutes Lecture

A. Advise students to review materials for a quiz (determine date/time) B. Direct students to read the next chapter in Fundamentals of Fire Fighter Skills as listed in your syllabus (or reading assignment sheet) to prepare for the next class session.