There are many concerns for a first responder when responding to an international terrorist event on US soil. Due to the vast amount of different types of terrorist attacks that could possibly occur on US soil it is hard to say for certain all the risks that a responder may encounter. These attacks may range from an explosive device in a single structure to the release of a chemical weapon on a city. However, there are some general risks that first responders may encounter in most cases. These risks can include hazards as they approach the scene, the rescue and recovery effort, and suspect apprehension.
While responding to a terrorist event the first responder may encounter many potential hazards. First and fore most the responder must get to the scene quickly and safely. That means they are most likely driving at a high rate of speed which can be risky especially in areas of high population. Since one of the goals of a terrorist is to “cause as much destruction and death as possible” the likelihood of the event occurring in a highly-populated area is great (Newman & Clarke, 36). …show more content…
The responder must create a barrier between the event and other structures or citizens. This barrier will be intended to keep unauthorized people out and create safe area where the wounded can be attended to. Depending on the type of attack the responder may have to assist in removing debris, repel down steep areas, or move in and out of areas containing smoke, fire, or chemicals in order to attempt to help people. The risk for personal injury is great during this phase as structures in the area may not yet be stable. During the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks “structures collapsed killing hundreds of responders from New York City Police, and Fire Department, and police officers and firefighters from Port Authority of New York and New Jersey”
While responding to a terrorist event the first responder may encounter many potential hazards. First and fore most the responder must get to the scene quickly and safely. That means they are most likely driving at a high rate of speed which can be risky especially in areas of high population. Since one of the goals of a terrorist is to “cause as much destruction and death as possible” the likelihood of the event occurring in a highly-populated area is great (Newman & Clarke, 36). …show more content…
The responder must create a barrier between the event and other structures or citizens. This barrier will be intended to keep unauthorized people out and create safe area where the wounded can be attended to. Depending on the type of attack the responder may have to assist in removing debris, repel down steep areas, or move in and out of areas containing smoke, fire, or chemicals in order to attempt to help people. The risk for personal injury is great during this phase as structures in the area may not yet be stable. During the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks “structures collapsed killing hundreds of responders from New York City Police, and Fire Department, and police officers and firefighters from Port Authority of New York and New Jersey”