As we have seen, domestic and international terrorist can strike at any time. To combat the threat, emergency services officials representing all levels of government are working together to develop and implement effective strategies for deterring, preventing and responding to incidents. To assist individuals in preparing for emergencies, the Copiah County Emergency Management Agency, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, American Red Cross, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have provided information on what to do during emergencies.

The Copiah County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan specifically addresses response to terrorist attacks. In addition, federal, state and local emergency management, law enforcement, fire and emergency medical officials meet on a regular basis to plan and evaluate preparedness activities throughout the county. The public also has a role in reducing the impact of terrorism on their lives.

BEFORE AN ATTACK

Prepare for the possibility of a terrorist incident in your area:

• Learn about the nature of terrorism.

° Terrorist look for visible targets where they can avoid detection be fore or after an attack such as international airports, large cities, major international events, resorts and high profile landmarks.

° Report any suspicious activities to the Jackson FBI office at 601-948-5000 or 866-728-9930.

• Adapt, as appropriate, the same techniques used to prepare for tornados, fires and other emergencies.

° Be prepared and observe your environment. Terrorists most often strike with little or no warning.

° Use caution when you travel. Observe and report unusual activity. Keep your packages with you at all times. Do not accept packages from strangers.

° Locate stairways and emergency exits and develop plans for evacuating buildings,  subways and crowded public areas.

• If you live or work in multi-level buildings:

° Identify the location of fire exits and review emergency evacuations procedures.

° Locate and maintain fire extinguishers in working order. Train responsible personnel how to use them.

° Obtain training in first aid and CPR.

• Assemble and maintain an emergency supply kit for each floor that includes those items referenced on this website.  Also compile essential emergency preparedness items in a back pack for emergency response team members.

DURING AN ATTACK

• If there’s an explosion:

° Remain calm. Take cover under a desk or sturdy table. If ceiling tiles, bookshelves, their contents, etc. begin to fall, then,

° Exit the building as quickly as possible.

• If there’s a fire:

° Stay low to the floor at all times and exit the building as quickly as possible. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect near the ceiling first.

° Use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth.

° Use the back of your hand to feel closed doors. If the door is not hot, brace yourself against the door and open it slowly. Do not open the door if is hot. Seek another escape route.

° Use appropriate fire exits, not elevators.

AFTER AN ATTACK

• If you are trapped in debris:

° If possible, use a flashlight or whistle to signal rescuers regarding your location.

°Stay in your area so that you don’t kick up dust. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing.

° Tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are.

° Use a whistle if available. Shout only as a last resort shouting can cause a person to inhale dangerous amounts of dust.

PROTECTIVE ACTIONS

Protective actions are actions we take to safeguard our family members and ourselves from harm. The most common emergency protective actions are evacuation and  shelter-in-place.

• Evacuation means to leave the area of actual or potential hazard.

• Shelter-in-place means to stay indoors. This includes additional precautions such as turning off air-conditioning, ventilation systems and closing all windows and doors.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

• Remain calm.

• Be aware of your surroundings.

• Have a Family Preparedness Plan.

• Stay informed.

• If an evacuation is ordered, follow the instructions of local officials regarding  evacuation routes and the location of shelters.

• If shelter-in-place is recommended, local officials will provide instructions on necessary actions.

• Do not leave your shelter location or return to the evacuation area until it is deemed safe to do by local officials.