In November 2002, when the Department of Homeland Security was created, it sought to have national preparedness that resonates down to the community levels. Some communities and organizations interested in safety have developed literature to help citizens be better prepared. Hanley J. Harding, Jr., Director of Operations and Development of the Aurora Protection Specialists, located in Boca Raton, Florida, has developed an educational book to help citizens be prepared for a possible attack, _C/B/R/N: Chemical/Biological/Radiological/Nuclear Disaster Familiarization and Overview Manual_.

During these troubled and fearful times, this manual is not only a must read, but a must have. The manual states that information presented “can also be of some help in preparing for - and coping with - naturally-occurring disasters.” At the time of hurricane Katrina, we most likely asked ourselves, “Would I have been prepared?”

The manual is very user-friendly. Designed for clarity, it begins with a helpful “Glossary of Terms.” Most of us have an intellectual understanding of the term biological warfare, but few have adequate knowledge of the term bioaccumulative. Chapters 1 through 5 provide overviews for each type of threat, chemical, biological, radiological contamination and nuclear.

Chapter 6, “Personal/Family Disaster Preparedness” addresses the necessity of families bearing the “major responsibility for undertaking pre-planning and preparation measures which will help ensure their survival and safety in the even of an attack.” The citizenry must understand “that it is not possible for any governmental entity to protect the safety of the general population” against an attack. Following this word of advice, Harding outlines the major factors involved in planning for survival and safety in the event of an attack.

Chapter 7, turns attention to “Organizational Disaster Preparedness,” who are by their nature are “capable of responding to disasters.” But they, too, need to devise and implement plans for a possible attack whether it be chemical, biological, radiological contamination or nuclear. The manual concludes with an addendum of a list of hazardous chemicals and substances.

I highly recommend that you add Hanley’s manual to your book shelf,. In these troubled times of international conflict and unpredictable natural disasters, don’t get caught unprepared. Be informed. Be ready. Click on the link below to learn more about the manual.