Easy-To-Read Poster Tells How to Respond to a Biological, Chemical, or "Dirty Bomb" Attack, Says National Defense University 2/9/2004
From: Dave Thomas of National Defense University, 202-685-3140 or Thomasd@ndu.edu WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 -- A colorful, easy-to-read poster that describes steps to take before and after a biological, chemical, or 'dirty bomb' attack has been created by National Defense University (NDU) biologists, Patricia Coomber, PhD and Robert Armstrong, PhD. Both Coomber and Armstrong are senior research fellows at the university's Center for Technology and National Security Policy The poster, entitled "Coping with an Attack, A Quick Guide to Dealing with Biological, Chemical and 'Dirty Bomb' Attacks," also includes answers to frequently asked questions. The information is presented in a simple, non-technical, easily understood format and can be hung in offices and homes for quick reference. The information was developed from several sources and was reviewed by both government and private experts. It is available for free at http://www.ndu.edu/ctnsp/wmd_tipsheet.htm. Organizations, either governmental or private, interested in reproducing the poster can do so without prior permission and can place their own logos and names on it. By providing helpful recommendations for specific actions that all citizens can take, Coomber and Armstrong hope to limit the consequences of any attack. According to Armstrong, "One of the best ways to reduce fear and panic during a biological, chemical, or "dirty bomb" attack is to educate people about the actions they can take before and immediately after such an event." "In the event of an attack, a well-informed public can help limit the spread of contamination and significantly reduce the number of worried but unaffected citizens who otherwise might overwhelm emergency services," said Coomber. As the most recent ricin incident shows, while there may be the potential for these types of attacks, the likelihood of being involved in such an incident is extremely small. In fact, the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis rates the chances of being involved in a bioterrorism attack as one in 56,424,800 -- as compared to the chances of being involved in an automobile accident, which are 1 in 6,745. ------ NDU is the nation's premier center for joint professional military education. The University is an accredited graduate- level institution that provides an educational and research environment to prepare future leaders of the armed forces and other governmental agencies for high-level policy, command, and staff responsibilities. The Center for Technology and National Security Policy (CTNSP) examines the implications of technological innovation for U.S. national security policy and military planning. CTNSP combines scientific and technical assessments with analyses of current strategic and defense policy issues, taking on topics to bridge the gap. The Center has produced studies on proliferation and homeland security, military transformation, information technology, biotechnology, and social science modeling. NOTE: Media representatives wishing to contact the authors for interviews or more information on the poster should contact Dave Thomas, Assistant Vice President for University Relations, at 202- 685-3140, or Thomasd@ndu.edu |