Before the 9/11 attack in New York Americans had not experienced what it is like to live in a country where terrorism reigns. In South Africa and other countries terrorism had been experienced for many years. The success of terrorist tactics in some countries may have encouraged the use of bombs and chemicals as a way of achieving political ends, even in America.
Terrorism can strike at any time and anywhere. In fact the success of the tactic depends on shock and awe. The best defence is to be always alert and ready. Having an emergency kit close to hand is one of the best defences.
Terrorism can take many forms and have many consequences. Suitable kits should cater for many different types of emergency. Terrorists might poison food and water supplies so a supply of these essential life sustaining things should be included. Emergency kits need to be constantly checked and replenished regularly. There should also be provision for worst case scenarios. For many people across the world that has meant relocating to another country.
In confines spaces a tactic might be to contaminate the air. This was attempted in Japan when an underground railway was attacked. For such emergencies a gas mask needs t be available. It should be checked to see that it fits and ideally will be available whenever one enters a danger zone such as a crowded space like a church, shop or train. Terrorism emergency kits should be available to children too and in cases where prolonged terrorist attacks occur over periods of many months it could be necessary to have protective suits available to all.
The acts of terrorists have succeeded in many parts of the world. In some countries they have taken over the government and achieved their ends. Because of this there is a wealth of information on the subject and much equipment is available that should be kept ready to hand in case of ongoing attacks. It is important to communicate with those people in the community who are not terrorists and who may be able to form a helpful alliance. For this reason a radio that does not require batteries, such as a crank radio should become a tool that you are familiar with. Part of communication is education. Family members should all know what to do when an attack comes. For that reason it may be a good idea to search web pages that have information about how to cope with emergencies and what what equipment is available.
