CERT U8 TERROR STUDY GUIDE

Unit 8.1: Terrorism Overview and Response

Definition:

• Terrorism: The unlawful use of force or violence to intimidate or coerce a government or civilian population to achieve political or social objectives.

Terrorist Goals and Tactics:

• Goals: Influence government policy, undermine public safety, portray the government as weak.

• Tactics:

• Active Shooter: Immediate danger involving firearms.

• Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): Homemade bombs.

• Complex Coordinated Attacks: Multi-location incidents.

• Cyber Attacks: Disruptions to digital infrastructure.

• Cyber Risks: Security vulnerabilities in technology.

Signs of Terrorism:

• 8 Common Indicators:

1. Surveillance: Observing potential targets.

2. Elicitation: Gathering information through questioning.

3. Tests of Security: Probing responses to breaches.

4. Funding: Raising money for operations.

5. Acquiring Supplies: Obtaining materials for attacks.

6. Impersonation/Suspicious People: Posing as someone else.

7. Rehearsals/Dry Runs: Practicing attack scenarios.

8. Deployment: Positioning equipment or supplies.

• Potential Targets:

• Soft Targets: Public places like schools, parks, cafes, and venues.

• Hard Targets: Government and military buildings, critical infrastructure.

Active Shooter Response – Run, Hide, Fight:

• Run: Evacuate, call 9-1-1, help others.

• Hide: Out of the shooter’s view, block entry, remain quiet.

• Fight: As a last resort, act aggressively and commit to your actions.

• When Law Enforcement Arrives:

• Follow instructions, stay calm.

• Hands up, no sudden movements.

• Provide key information (e.g., number of shooters, weapons, description).

• Key Knowledge Points:

• Safety steps: Remain calm, visible hands, follow officers’ commands.

Knowledge Check Recap:

• Signs of terrorism: Impersonation, security tests, surveillance, supply acquisition.

• Active shooter response: Run, hide, fight is the recommended procedure.

Unit 8.2: CERT’s Role and Safety Protocols

CERT Limitations:

• CERT volunteers are not trained or equipped for direct response to terrorism but should assist until professional responders arrive.

• Personal safety is the top priority.

• Follow the direction of law enforcement.

Treating Others in Terror Situations:

• Find a safe place.

• Stop bleeding, maintain body temperature, open the airway, provide comfort.

• Recognize and manage stress.

Responding to HazMat Situations:

• Zone Establishment:

• Hot Zone: Immediate hazard area.

• Warm Zone: Decontamination area.

• Cold Zone: Safe area.

• Decontamination Procedures:

• Leave the contaminated area, remove clothing, wash hands, flush body, blot dry.

• Avoid scrubbing; act quickly.

CBRNE (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Explosive):

• Indicators: Vapor clouds, unusual odors, unscheduled spraying, leaking packages.

• Immediate Actions:

• Do not touch suspicious items.

• Move away and report to authorities.

• Protection Against Radioactive Fallout:

• Time, Distance, Shielding: Minimize exposure by staying indoors, deep inside a building, and staying informed.

Shelter-in-Place (S.I.P.):

• Preparation: Store plastic sheets, practice room sealing, have supplies ready.

• Response: Shut doors/windows, turn off ventilation, seal room, listen to the radio.

Unit Test Review:

1. CBRNE: Stands for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, explosive.

2. Treating Others: Includes stopping bleeding, maintaining temperature, finding a safe place.

3. False Statement: Do not remove CBRNE indicators; report instead.

4. Decontamination: Avoid scrubbing contaminants.

5. True/False: CERT members are not trained for terrorist response. (true)

6. Radioactive Protection: Go inside a building, stay put, stay tuned.