Preparedness For Hazardous Releases

Introduction

The terrorist attacks against our country and the anthrax-laced letters that followed have awakened the conscience of the general public to the realities of terrorism.

Dangers

The information provided on this site is not only applicable to terrorism. Illinois is home to many chemical, biological, and manufacturing plants that store and use a large amount of hazardous materials. It is also a nuclear state, with six operating nuclear reactors dispersed throughout the state. Additionally, large amounts of potentially hazardous materials are shipped daily on highways, railroads, waterways, and pipelines. For example a train derailment in Baltimore involving hazardous materials released harmful vapors into the air and required an extended evacuation of part of the city. Even household chemicals, if improperly mixed or stored can cause dangerous releases that can spread into the community. These events can be as or more severe that any terrorist attacks.

Preparation

This information is designed to give guidance on what can be done to enhance survival in event of a nuclear, chemical, or biological release. Experts feel that individuals must be prepared to be on their own for a minimum of three days in case of a disaster. In any type of emergency, the chance for survival is increased if people are prepared for the disaster and know what actions to take. Developing a comprehensive emergency survival plan is important for survival. Be sure to involve all members of your family in the development of your plan. A plan will only work if everyone knows and agrees to follow it.