Explosion

Explosions

An explosion of some type is the terrorists most common weapon.

Terrorists do not have to look far to find out how to make explosive devices; the information and supplies are readily available in books and other information sources and in most stores.

Explosive devices are highly portable using vehicles and humans as a means of transport and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers.

Conventional bombs have been used to damage and destroy financial, political, social, and religious institutions. Attacks have occurred in public places and on city streets with thousands of people around the world injured and killed.

How to Respond

Get under a sturdy table or desk if things are falling around you. When they stop falling, leave quickly, watching for obviously weakened floors and stairways. As you exit from the building, be especially watchful of falling debris.
Leave the building as quickly as possible. Do not stop to retrieve personal possessions or make phone calls.
Do not use elevators.

Once you are out

Do not stand in front of windows, glass doors, or other potentially hazardous areas.
Move away from sidewalks or streets to be used by emergency officials or others still exiting the building.

If you are trapped in debris

If possible, use a flashlight to signal your location to rescuers.
Avoid unnecessary movement so you don’t kick up dust.
Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand. (Dense-weave cotton material can act as a good filter. Try to breathe through the material.)
Tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are.
If possible, use a whistle to signal rescuers.
Shout only as a last resort. Shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.