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Being Prepared

At moderate to high exposure concentrations, cyanide can kill very quickly - within minutes to hours, depending on the route of exposure. However, if recognized and diagnosed in a timely manner, cyanide poisoning can be effectively treated. While there is no rapid acting diagnostic test for cyanide poisoning, well-trained first responders can diagnose cyanide poisoning presumptively on the scene.

In 2000, a Center for Disease Control (CDC) taskforce published strategic recommendations for preparedness for and response to biological and chemical terrorism. The recommendations identified five activities public health organizations should undertake to enhance preparedness:

Enhance epidemiologic capacity for detecting and responding to chemical attacks;
Enhance awareness of chemical terrorism among EMS personnel, police officers, firefighters, physicians and nurses;
Stockpile chemical antidotes;
Develop and provide bioassays for detection and diagnosis of chemical injuries; and
Prepare educational materials to inform the public during and after a chemical attack.

While progress has been made in many parts of the country on several of these steps, especially after September 11, 2001, there is still much that can be done by local, state and federal government agencies. Additionally, new legislation is changing the homeland security landscape at an extraordinarily rapid rate. The best way to keep track of these changes is by visiting the following government websites:

Protecting Yourself

There are several steps you can take to prepare for unexpected emergency. According to the American Red Cross, finding out what can happen is the first step. Once you have identified potential events in your community, it is important to discuss with your family or household.

Create an emergency plan
Establish a meeting place
Assemble a disaster suppy kit
Check on the school emergency plan of any school age children you may have

If Disaster Strikes:

Remain calm and be patient.
Follow the advice of local emergency officials
Listen to your radio or television for news and instructions.
If the disaster occurs near you, check for injuries. Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
If the disaster occurs near your home while you are there, check for damage using a flashlight. Do not light matches or candles or turn on electrical switches. Check for fires, fire hazards and other household hazards. Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside quickly.
Shut off any other damaged utilities.
Confine or secure your pets.
Call your family contact-do not use the telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
Check on your neighbors, especially thosewho are elderly or disabled.

For more information about the specific effects of chemical or biological agents, the following Web sites may be helpful: