• DHEC Home
• Health
• Environment
• Regulatory
• Disclaimer/Privacy
• Contact Us

South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control - www.scdhec.gov

• Public Health Preparedness Home

---

• Avian Influenza
• Bioterrorism FAQs
• Mass Casualty Response Plan
• Pandemic Influenza Preparedness
• Pandemic Influenza Resources
• Pandemic Summit
• Pandemic vs. Seasonal Inflenza
• Preparing for Disaster
• Special Needs
• Statewide Emergency Registry of Volunteers (SCSERV)
• Tactics
• Terrorism
• Weapons of Mass Destruction
• Links & Resources
• Contact Information

Terrorism

Terrorism is the use of force or violence against persons or property for the purpose of intimidation, coercion or even financial gain. The greatest tool that a terrorist possesses is the ability to generate fear by using threats and surprise attacks. They may attempt to convince the public that the government is powerless against them as part of their campaign to create publicity for their cause.

Terrorism ranges from mere threats to acts with tragic consequences, such as the attacks of September 11, 2001. Terrorists have carried out assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, bombings, attacks on computer networks, and incidents involving nuclear, biological and chemical weapons. Most often, the targets of these attacks are high-risk and/or high-profile persons or facilities in large cities. However, areas with smaller populations can also become targets of terrorist attacks during popular events, heavy traffic times at airports, or business gatherings.

You can make yourself less vulnerable to an incident of terrorism. Preparation is key:

• Be aware of your surroundings. Terrorists rely on the element of surprise.
• Take precautions when traveling. Watch for suspicious persons. At airports, never accept packages from strangers, and never leave your bags unattended.
• Learn where emergency exits are located. Also, pay close attention to stairways that may be used when elevators are unavailable.

The United States Department of Homeland Security offers three simple pieces of advice:

• Make a kit of emergency supplies - When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth.
• Make a plan for what you will do in the event of an emergency – Be prepared to assess the situation, use common sense and whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
• Be aware of what might happen - Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and can make a big difference when seconds count.