Emergency Management
Dealing with Terrorism
The recent rash of terrorist activity has raised many questions in the minds of the citizens of Bedford. As a result, we have compiled the following information to help answer some of these questions.
What is the City of Bedford doing to protect the water supply?
The City of Bedford has taken steps to ensure that all city well and water storage facilities are secure from intrusion and criminal acts which might endanger the water supply.
What can I do to protect my family and myself?
Unfortunately, there is very little an individual can do in advance to protect against exposure to a biological agent. You can assist by being observant at work and at home. Do not hesitate to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
Where can I find information about anthrax, smallpox and other biological agents?
The Center for Disease Control has a very informative website concerning biological and chemical agents.
Do I need a gas mask?
The City of Bedford does not recommend the purchase of a gas mask. It's important to know that a mask will offer protection only if the individual happens to be wearing it at the exact moment a bio-terrorism incident occurred. Because any release of a biological agent is likely to be done covertly, it is unlikely an individual would know when to put on the mask. In addition, to work effectively, the mask must be fitted to the particular user and the user must be trained in its proper use and maintenance. Used incorrectly, the masks can be dangerous; there have been reports of accidental suffocation resulting from improperly used masks.
Should I have my own supply of antibiotics?
News stories indicate some people are hoarding medicine in anticipation of a possible bio-terrorism or chemical attack. However, the Department of Health and federal health agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention DO NOT recommend that the public stockpile antibiotics.
Where should citizens turn for instructions in the event of a chemical or biological disaster?
The electronic and print media can be very useful sources of information, especially while events are developing at a rapid pace. Local, state, and national public health, public safety, and emergency management officials would be the most reliable sources of information. As soon as the circumstances are understood, these officials will call press conferences to convey accurate information and instructions to the public. Subsequent press conferences will be called as frequently as possible to update the public about the steps that local, state, and federal government organizations are taking to address the situation and what individuals can do to help themselves and their fellow citizens. In a genuine disaster, the Emergency Broadcast System would possibly be employed to give instructions to citizens.
Has the City of Bedford received any confirmed anthrax cases?
According to Texas officials, no confirmed anthrax cases have occurred in Texas.
What type of local, state and federal resources might be deployed in the event of a terrorist attack?
The City of Bedford Fire and Police Departments would be the first responders to a terrorist attack unless the attack is a biological agent. In this case the first notification would probably be by the medical community. The City of Bedford will work closely with the Texas Department of Emergency Management to obtain the necessary resources for responding to a terrorist attack.The Texas Department of Emergency Management is a division of the Texas Department of Public Safety and operates under the Governor’s Office. The State of Texas will allocate any and all resources within the State Government and Political Subdivisions to respond to a disaster.
If a Presidential Disaster Declaration has been made, the Federal Government will aid in the response with:
Specialized teams for damage assessment, emergency communications, medical assistance and support, urban search and rescue, emergency power restoration, and community relations. Equipment and supplies such as mobile kitchens, water purification units, portable toilets and showers, tents, Facilities including a Disaster Field Office, mobilization center, Disaster Recovery Centers
Where can I find additional facts about terrorism?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency updates their web site daily and is a good source for up-to-date information.