Radiation Detection App for iPhone / iPad

January 15th, 2012 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

While I am not normally a great fan of stuffing my phone full of apps that are entertaing but useless at best, here is one that I came across that can actually prove very useful for those that have the older Civil Defense survey meters that have and audio output that lets you hear the clicks as the Geiger tube is detecting hits. This will work with any meter that gives audible clicks for activity that is being detected by the Geiger tube, the app needs the external input through the microphone on the iPad / iPhone or a patch cable made to utilize direct input.

What’s more important about this app is the accuracy that can be attained with it. The CDV-700 that I used to test this was calibrated by a lab in the late 90’s so I have a fairly high confidence that its meter is reading correctly, all the readings that were taken with the application using the audio from the survey meter matched what it was showing on the analog meter.

iPhone version

The application is called Geiger Bot, and it is available on iTunes for free. Yes, you heard me right, free. Now if this app on an iPhone were to be coupled up with the compact Geiger Counter that is offered by GQ Electronics LLC for $95.00 you have a good handheld radiation detector that will even alert you if the background radiation rises above safe levels.

I will not detail out all of the functionality of the application, the author of it has already done a great job on his web site (http://sites.google.com/site/geigerbot/).

So for those that have an old CDV-700 meter and an iPhone or iPad, here is a way to bring it forward into the digital age for a minimum cost.

iPad Version

iPad Version


Preparedness in the Mainstream (Again)

January 1st, 2012 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

The mindset of preparedness has once again reared its head in the mainstream media in a positive light, this time in the form of educational television programming geared towards children. Yep, you heard me right, the mainstream media is preaching the positive aspects of preparedness to our children!

Mighty Kids Media’s Danger Rangers® animated edutainment series, which “SuperEmpowers” children ages 4-8 years-old with the knowledge to take on life’s challenges, will teach viewers the importance of emergency preparedness and paying attention to rules in this week’s episode.

It is good that the message of preparedness is being presented to our children, and I would really like to see more programming like this that is aimed at adult audiences as well. There are some public service type announcements that I have seen aired on the subject, but something more substantial is really needed to promote the preparedness lifestyle to the American public.

Incidents like the Fukushima disaster after the tsunami swamped the reactor complex really brought the reality of how one disaster can trigger another into sharp focus for many in the US and brought back the memories of the damage that Katrina did when it blew through the southeast US.

Perhaps you landed here because you are already one that pursues the preparedness lifestyle and are seeking more information, or perhaps you landed here and are reading this because you are curious about ‘that preparedness thing’. If it is the latter, we fully encourage you to learn as much as you can and make an educated decision about what is right for you and your family. I can tell you from our personal experiences in the past that living life with preparedness always in mind is one of the best things that we have ever done. When you are prepared there are not many surprises that you can’t navigate with minimal disruption to your normal routine.

For those that landed here while seeking more information, we will be posting more articles over the coming year to address specific preparedness issues. Be sure to check out the downloads area where there is a lot of additional information and utilities that can help you out.

Happy New Year to you and yours from us here at The Preparedness and Survival Site!


Upgrading Off The Shelf Personal Survival Kits

November 15th, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

I think that all but the most hardcore outdoorsman will agree that the Off the Shelf (OTS) survival kits have some merits, otherwise they would not still be offering them after so many years. Where the real goodness comes in is when you use one if these kits as a base to build upon.

For the purpose of this article I am going to focus on the Lifeline Ultralight Survival kit as a base. Stock off the shelf, these kits range from $9.99 to $14.99 depending where they are purchased (mine was $9.99), and they are usually stocked at most sporting goods stores or larger big box stores that have a camping/outdoors section.

Stock off the shelf the kit contains the following items in a thick plastic zipper bag, sorry for all caps as the contents list was copied from their site:

1          WEATHERPROOF CARRY CASE
1          SURVIVAL GUIDE
1          10′ EMERGENCY CORD
1          MAP COMPASS
1          EMERGENCY WHISTLE
1          SURVIVAL BLANKET
3          SAFETY PINS
1          36″ ROLL DUCT TAPE
1          18″ X 12″ SHEET ALUMINUM FOIL
1          8′ SNARE WIRE
1          BOX WATERPROOF MATCHES
4          FISHING HOOKS
4          FISHING SINKER WEIGHTS
1          50′ 10LB FISHING LINE
1          SURGICAL BLADE
1          REUSABLE ZIPPER-LOCK BAG
5          WOUND CLOSURE STRIPS

I realize that one of the selling points of their kit is to be “ultralight”, but for my purposes I used it as a base for a kit that fits in a Pelican 1040 waterproof micro series case. I wanted to add durability to the equation and add a little more space for storage in a hard case that is waterproof.

So, let’s look at the list again with the items that I removed from it upon unpacking its contents from the clear plastic zip container.

1          WEATHERPROOF CARRY CASE
1          SURVIVAL GUIDE
1          10′ EMERGENCY CORD
1          MAP COMPASS
1          EMERGENCY WHISTLE
1          SURVIVAL BLANKET
3          SAFETY PINS
1          36″ ROLL DUCT TAPE
1          18″ X 12″ SHEET ALUMINUM FOIL
1          8′ SNARE WIRE
1          BOX WATERPROOF MATCHES
4          FISHING HOOKS
4          FISHING SINKER WEIGHTS
1          50′ 10LB FISHING LINE
1          SURGICAL BLADE
1          REUSABLE ZIPPER-LOCK BAG
5          WOUND CLOSURE STRIPS

Weatherproof Carry Case:
This is the container for the whole kit, while it may have its uses, it was removed for more practical items.

Map Compass:
This was removed due to the fact that the one that came in the kit that I purchased was not functioning properly (not sure if it was originally supposed to be liquid filled or not, but it was in non-working condition out of the package), for a $9.99 kit I was not concerned with that one piece arriving DOA.

36” Roll Duct Tape:
Why settle for only 36” of the wonder tools that is only second to bailing wire?

Box Waterproof Matches:
These are basically your standard wooden match that has only the head coated with a substance to make the ‘resistant’ to water, I have a feeling that if the matches and the box containing them were to get drenched that you would be out of luck (more from a soggy striker than the matches themselves).

Ok, now that we have looked at the items that I removed from the OTS kit, lets have a look at the items that I replaced them with and added to the base kit.

Compass:
The dysfunctional map compass was replaced with a lensatic compass. Decent models that do not have all the bells and whistles, and actually work, can be had for as little as $10 if you shop around a little (metal cased, not plastic).

Duct Tape:
By using an old shopper’s loyalty card, used up gift card, etc. you can store a lot of tape in an area that is much easier to pack in a kit than a miniature roll of tape. In my case I was able to carefully wrap more than 60” of good quality duct tape onto the card off to one side leaving room for another addition.

Electrical Tape:
Using the same card that I used for the duct tape I was also able to add more than 60” of electrical tape. The card thickness with the tape wrapped around it is just over ¼ of an inch, a lot better way to store the tape if you ask me.

Storm Matches:
These were included to replace the matches that came with the kit. These are matches that will light in the pouring rain and burn a full 15 seconds before running out of the fuel that coats the tips.

Now we are moving into the items that were not replaced, but added over and above the original kit contents (technically the electrical tape also qualifies for this category, but I considered it part of the duct tape replacement).

Redundant Fire Starter #1 – Disposable Lighter ($.99 – $1.50):
Simple but effective if it does not get drenched, and even if it does, it will work again when it dries out.

Redundant Fire Starter #2 – Firesteel W/Striker ($5.99 – $15.00):
This is a tool that will produce hot sparks wet or dry, when coupled up with some good tinder it will start a fire under almost any conditions.

Redundant Fire Starter #3 – Magnesium Bar Fire Starter ($2.99 – $5.99):
Yes, it may be overkill, but when you are stuck somewhere fire rates right up there with water for survival. The cold will kill you faster than dehydration in most cases.

Survival Card/Multitool (.99 – $2.00):
This is a stainless steel tool that is the same size as a standard credit card, only thicker. It has various tools incorporated that can be very useful.
-         Can Opener
-         Screwdriver (flat head only)
-         Knife Edge
-         Bottle Opener
-         Ruler (2” I think)
-         Butterfly Screw Wrench
-         Saw Blade
-         Direction Indication
-         4 Position Wrench (Hex)
-         2 position Wrench (Smaller Hex)

Generally it is sold as a 11 function tool, but I fail to understand how the keychain hole counts in the list.

I know that there are many out there that are going to point out that there are things that are still missing from this kit, this is a true statement. There still needs to be the addition of water treatment tablets, para cord and a few other items that can be fit into the case. With all the items that have been added, there is still room to shoehorn in other items without a lot of effort.

The whole point is to prove that the OTS survival kits are not without their merits, they can be used on their own or expanded to construct a kit that is customized to your particular needs.


Planning Your End

November 13th, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

In the preparedness circles we spend all of out time planning for how to sustain life in adverse conditions that are beyond our control, but what about the opposite?

Yes, this is a subject that nobody really wants to face, let alone talk about. Unfortunately, it is something very important to consider. Whether or not we like the idea, we are all going to die sometime. Granted the idea of preparedness is to ensure that we can forestall that complication as long as possible, but, it is going to happen whether we like it or not.

Unfortunately this was tested when a close family member recently passed, I will not get into the details, but I will say that it was an unexpected death. These are the most difficult to deal with; let’s face it, today’s costs for dealing with one’s remains is not exactly inexpensive, and if you can spare your family the cost and grief trying to arrange the final disposition, it is a investment well made.

There are services out there like the Neptune Society that can make the whole process a whole lot easier in the case of a death that is unexpected, I am not happy to be touting the services of folks like Neptune because I would rather have the loved one still here, but they went out of their way to ensure that the process after death was transparent to the family.

Why is this on a preparedness site you may ask? The answer is simple, you are going to die whether it is before a major incident or after. It is one of the facts of life that you cannot avoid no matter how you try, the important part is dealing with it.

I know that as a prepper, the plans that I have look at much more than just the typical SHTF scenario, they encompass daily life as well. Planning for your retirement is one of the things that we all do on the assumption that we are going to reach that age and use the funds to support the ‘golden years’ that we have all earned the right to when we reach it.

But, one has to ask themselves ‘What if?’. What if you die early, or your spouse dies early? Have you planned for that?

Medical insurance covers exactly that, medical. Life insurance insures that those you leave behind have funds to continue their lives, but it does not cover the costs of a cremation or burial.

We were fortunate in the fact that the family member had thought ahead about this very thing. The death of a family member is a devastating thing in itself, having to claw and scratch to take care of the final arrangements when you are not prepared can be far worse.

No matter your preference for how your remains are to be treated after you depart this world, you need to plan that as well. Services like those from the Neptune Society may seem morbid at first, when they are needed, they are priceless. Unfortunately, I can speak from experience just how well services like this work.

It may sound morbid and all, but you need to plan your end as well as your continuance. Life can end at any moment, this is another thing that we all need to be prepared for, if not for ourselves, its for the family that we leave behind.


The Growing Prevalence of ‘Bump Keys’ and the Threat to Your Home’s Security – Part II

September 4th, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

In the last installment I pointed out the fundamental flaws of the big box store variety of locks that almost all people use to protect their homes, in this segment I am going to show some solutions to that problem that can help keep your family and your property safer from all but the most determined of thieves.

The first place to start is with the lock itself, which in itself is not always the weakest link in the system, but if it can easily be bypassed, it renders any other security measures that you may have taken pointless. Most commercially sold locksets seem only to be made to keep honest people honest, while more expensive locks that are not readily available on the shelves are made to resist even determined thieves.

In the first photo you can see a run of the mill deadbolt on the left that was purchased at the local home improvement big box store for roughly $20, on the right is a high security deadbolt that was purchased from a locksmith for around $125. The first obvious difference is the keyway, the high security lock takes a key that can only be made by an authorized dealer of the locks.


Click on Picture to Enlarge

Looking at the back of the deadbolt you can see the other obvious differences. The lock on the right is mostly hollow and the lockset itself is constructed cast metal that is not all that thick, this does not lend well to resisting attack by brute force like a hammer. The deadbolt on the right is much more solidly constructed with a solid outer housing that is around a half inch thick in most areas, the lockset itself is also much more robust.


Click on Picture to Enlarge

The next picture shows the locksets removed from their respective housings, the quality differences in the strength of the two locks becomes obvious. The lock on the left offers little protection towards an outright physical attack on the housing and the lockset itself. What is not shown in the pictures is that the lock on the right has a 1/8th inch thick steel shroud that goes inside the door that surrounds the bolt mechanism itself and interlocks the two locksets and the housings together to further strengthen the whole assembly, the lock on the left does not have any such protection.


Click on Picture to Enlarge

I did not have an extra bolt assembly to show in comparison to the one that came with the high security lock, but the bolt and striker assembly are much more robust than those that are commonly found on the shelves of the local big box home improvement stores. The entire bolt assembly is made mostly of heavy gauge steel that is formed rather than using cast parts for a majority of the construction, and the striker is constructed in the same manner with a solid pocket for the bolt rather than relying on the wood of the door frame to retain the bolt.


Click on Picture to Enlarge

The unique keyway and tumbler system of these locks makes them very resistant to picking and bumping. Notice that I only said ‘resistant’, any lock can be overcome by a determined enough person with the proper skills and time. The whole point is to make it as difficult as possible and encourage a potential thief to move on to an easier target.


Click on Picture to Enlarge

Locks themselves are only a part of the overall strategy that should be used to protect the doors in your home, the other is to strengthen the integrity of the door itself to resist physical attacks. That nice new high security lock is going to do little for you if the door can still be kicked in due to the inherent weakness of the frame that holds it in place. In most common installations the door is only held in the rough opening by nails, or in some cases screws, that secure it to the framing of the house. The hinge mounting points are also another weakness that can be exploited using brute force (kicking in the door).

To address the other inherent weakness in household doors there is a product called Door Armor that is sold by Armor Concepts (http://www.armorconcepts.com). Their product reinforces the known weak points in doors that are relatively easy to exploit when the proper amount of force is applied. In one independent video test of their products a hole was punched in the fiberglass door itself with a battering ram like those used by police, and the jamb and hinge reinforcements still did not fail when they attempted to breach the door.

For doors that have glass panels in them, there are a variety of security films on the market that will keep the glass in the pane even if it is broken. Shatter Guard (http://shatterguard.com) is a good example of this technology that not only keeps glass that has broken in place, but it also significantly increases the resistance of glass to breakage in the first place.

All security precautions that a homeowner may take are only as strong as the weakest link in the system. It is important that you take a good critical look at all aspects of your home’s security. Start with strengthening the weakest points first, sometimes they will not always be apparent, but can be found if you look hard enough. The best way to do this is to put on the hat of a thief and look for ways that you would break into your own home if you had to, when you find the vulnerabilities you can address them effectively.


The Growing Prevalence of ‘Bump Keys’ and the Threat to Your Home’s Security

August 9th, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

In past I had seen some of the articles on the art of lock bumping in the media and on the net, until recently I really never paid them much attention. That was until I had the chance to actually use these things for myself, I can tell you it is not an ‘art’ by any means. Having never done it in my life, and never been formally instructed in how to do it, I was able to open a standard Schlage deadbolt on the third try (less than a minute) using a bump key and a bump hammer. Trying other various locks that were available, the technique worked on all of them with relative ease.

All it takes is a specially crafted key blank that just about anybody with some time and the most rudimentary tools can make, and something to smack it into the lock with (screwdriver, piece of wood or anything with enough mass). Even worse these special blanks are readily available on line already cut to the needed configuration for about $2 each.

Most, if not all, of the locks that you purchase for your doors at the local home improvement store are vulnerable to being bumped, as well as most padlocks. If the lock takes a traditional key, chances are that it can be opened using this method. It is also important to note that inexpensive combination padlocks are also vulnerable to shimming.

There are locks coming onto the market that are resistant to this method of opening, but that does not change the fact that 90% plus of the locks currently installed in residential settings are vulnerable to being bumped.

This is especially important for those that have rural properties that do not have someone living there all the time, I have read postings in several forums where folks have visited their remote properties only to find that all their tools and other goodies have been stolen and nobody around saw or heard a thing.

The good news is that there are many new high security residential locksets that are entering the market, the downside is the cost. Typically a good high security double cylinder deadbolt is going to run right around $200 per door on average. While no lock is invulnerable to being violated, using higher quality locksets that are resistant to picking and bumping can cause a thief to move on to a more attractive target.

This now brings me to lock selection, you may buy a really nice high security lockset but it can be easily bypassed if it is installed in a manner that it can be easily circumvented.

Entry doors with windows, or windows next to the door
If a standard single cylinder deadbolt is chosen for locations like these it can be as simple as the thief breaking the glass, reaching in and unlocking the door from the inside. Double cylinder deadbolts should always be used for locations like this. Another consideration is to add a security film to the windows that are in proximity to the doors that will keep the glass in place even when broken.

Solid entry doors with no windows and no windows near the door
Single cylinder deadbolts can be used in these applications and generally cannot be violated from the outside without the use of brute force (kicking in the door or hammering the lock), but they can easily be opened from the inside.

I am aware that for safety sake it is generally recommended that these types of locks are installed for egress purposes in the event of a fire or other emergency that requires you to vacate your residence quickly. While that is a good point, I still chose to install double cylinder locks on all exterior doors, the safety factor is put back in place by leaving the key in the inside lock at night or in an easy to reach location. The reason that I chose to go this route is that if someone does break in and does not get eaten by the dogs, I am not going to make it easy for them to open the doors and remove items from my home.

Bump Proof Lockset and Padlock Manufacturers:
Medeco
BiLock
Mul-T-Lock
Master BumpStop


Radiation and Human Safety

March 15th, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in Natural or Manmade Disasters | No Comments »

With the current state of Japan taking the triple blow of a major quake, the resulting tsunami and finally the woes from the damage to the cooling systems of several of its reactors at the Fukushima Dai-Ichi power station, there is a raised awareness of the effects of radiation exposure.

The most basic place to start is what is the normal amount of radiation that we are exposed to on a daily basis from natural background sources is versus abnormal exposure levels that one may experience as the result of exposure to artificial sources of radiation. But before that, a short primer on the measurements that are used for radioactive exposure will be touched on.

There are several different measurement units that are used in regards to exposure of humans to radiation. In past the standard in the US were rads for dose equivalent, and rems for absorbed dose equivalent. The measurement of rads has been replaced by ‘Grays’ (Gy) and rems have been replaced with ‘Sieverts’ (Sv). This information is important as most modern meters read in Sieverts (Sv) or Micro Sieverts (µSv).

1 rad is equal to the following equivalent measurements
-       1,000 mrad
-       .01 Gy
-       10 mGy
-       10,000 µGy

1 rem is equal to the following equivalent measurements
-       1,000 mrem
-       .01 Sv
-       10 mSv
-       10,000 µSv

With that said, the average dosage of radiation that a person absorbs in a given year is approximately 300 mrem[1], putting the tables above to use this equals the following:
-       .0062 Sv
-       6.2 mSv
-       6,200 µSv
Note: This figure excludes and exposure due to nuclear medical exposures (x-ray, CT Scans or Radiotherapy for cancer).

Radiation Effects on Humans[2]
This is the part that you are probably most interested in with the current situation in Japan.

5-20 REM (.05 – .2 Sv)
No directly observable physical symptoms. US annual Federal Limit for workers to radiation exposure is 5 REM (.05 Sv).

20-50 REM (.2-.5 Sv)
No noticeable symptoms by the exposed person. Red blood cell count decreases temporarily.

50-100 REM (.5-1 Sv)
Light radiation poisoning, 10% fatality after 30 days (LD 10/30). Typical symptoms include mild to moderate nausea (50% probability at 2 Sv), with occasional vomiting, beginning 3 to 6 hours after irradiation and lasting for up to one day. This is followed by a 10 to 14 day latent phase, after which light symptoms like general illness and fatigue appear (50% probability at 2 Sv). The immune system is depressed, with convalescence extended and increased risk of infection. Temporary male sterility is common. Spontaneous abortion or stillbirth will occur in pregnant women.

200-300 REM (2-3 Sv)
Moderate radiation poisoning, 35% fatality after 30 days (LD 35/30). Nausea is common (100% at 3 Sv), with 50% risk of vomiting at 2.8 Sv. Symptoms onset at 1 to 6 hours after irradiation and last for 1 to 2 days. After that, there is a 7 to 14 day latent phase, after which the following symptoms appear: loss of hair all over the body (50% probability at 3 Sv), fatigue and general illness. There is a massive loss of leukocytes (white blood cells), greatly increasing the risk of infection. Permanent female sterility is possible. Convalescence takes one to several months.

300-400 REM (3-4 Sv)
Severe radiation poisoning, 50% fatality after 30 days (LD 50/30). Other symptoms are similar to the 2–3 Sv dose, with uncontrollable bleeding in the mouth, under the skin and in the kidneys (50% probability at 4 Sv) after the latent phase.

400-600 REM (4-6 Sv)
Acute radiation poisoning, 60% fatality after 30 days (LD 60/30). Fatality increases from 60% at 4.5 Sv to 90% at 6 Sv (unless there is intense medical care). Symptoms start half an hour to two hours after irradiation and last for up to 2 days. After that, there is a 7 to 14 day latent phase, after which generally the same symptoms appear as with 3-4 Sv irradiation, with increased intensity. Female sterility is common at this point. Convalescence takes several months to a year. The primary causes of death (in general 2 to 12 weeks after irradiation) are infections and internal bleeding.

600-1,000 REM (6-10 Sv)
Acute radiation poisoning, near 100% fatality after 14 days (LD 100/14). Survival depends on intense medical care. Bone marrow is nearly or completely destroyed, so a bone marrow transplant is required. Gastric and intestinal tissue is severely damaged. Symptoms start 15 to 30 minutes after irradiation and last for up to 2 days. Subsequently, there is a 5 to 10 day latent phase, after which the person dies of infection or internal bleeding. Recovery would take several years and probably would never be complete.

1,000-5,000 REM (10-50 Sv)
Acute radiation poisoning, 100% fatality after 7 days (LD 100/7). An exposure this high leads to spontaneous symptoms after 5 to 30 minutes. After powerful fatigue and immediate nausea caused by direct activation of chemical receptors in the brain by the irradiation, there is a period of several days of comparative well-being, called the latent (or “walking ghost”) phase. After that, cell death in the gastric and intestinal tissue, causing massive diarrhea, intestinal bleeding and loss of water, leads to water-electrolyte imbalance. Death sets in with delirium and coma due to breakdown of circulation. Death is currently inevitable; the only treatment that can be offered is pain therapy.

>5,000 REM (>50 Sv)
100% Fatality. Death, typically within 48 hours.

What can be done to protect yourself?
Ultimately the best thing that we can hope for is that the Japanese are able to get the ailing reactors under control and safely disabled. If the worst happens, and the reactors go into a full meltdown there can be a significant release of radiation into the atmosphere.

While some of the maps that are floating around on the internet are alarmist at best, there is a very real possibility of radioactive materials reaching American shores. The major thing to remember is that if it all goes bad, it will not be the same type of release that resulted from the Chernobyl disaster. The reactor types that are employed by the Japanese are boiling water reactors that also use water as the neutron moderator whereas Chernobyl used graphite as a moderator. The vaporized graphite was responsible for carrying the contamination to such a wide area.

There are really only a few ways that you can protect yourself from hazardous exposure to manmade radiation. The first is shelter, even if the worst were to occur with the Japanese reactors it is not likely that radiation levels that would reach the US will be high enough to require shelter of residents on the west coast.

As with Chernobyl, the main risk factor is ingestion of foods that are tainted with radioactive materials from the fallout. During the Chernobyl disaster thousands of gallons of tainted milk were disposed of in the US to prevent exposure of the population to elevated radiation levels.

If you are going to be exposed to radioactive materials that result from a meltdown, potassium iodide is the only prophylactic measure that can be taken. This basically prevents your thyroid from taking up radioactive iodine by flooding it with good iodine.

Bottom Line
There are several different directions that the ongoing incident may take, and there is even more speculation out there. All that we can do is hope for the best, and prepare for the worst. Even if the plants in Japan do enter a full on meltdown mode, the release of radiation will not be able to be accurately measured unless it happens.

As with all things posted here, take your time, do the research, and make an informed decision on what is right for you and your family.



Requests from FEMA for Information on Large Amounts of Food, Blankets and Biohazard / Body Bags

March 1st, 2011 Citizen Zero Posted in Natural or Manmade Disasters, News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

There is a lot of speculation out there on just what these orders / info requests really mean, I guess that this is yet another one of them. The main thought that seems to be prevalent is “what do they know that we don’t?” maybe they know something, maybe they don’t. That much is really all that we know. Speculation is not hard fact.

Here is what we do know in regards to the three most talked about government requests for information:

-         1/20/2011 RFI for Pre-Packaged Commercial Meals (Sources Sought, not a purchase order)

  • Note: The information requested is for MRE’s, not dehydrated foods as others are reporting

-         1/20/2011 RFI – Blankets for Disaster Relief (Sources Sought, not a purchase order)

-         10/25/2010 Request for Information – Underwater Body Bags (again, a request for information, not a purchase order)

There also has been a lot of speculation based on the worry over the New Madrid fault letting go, that would be a major disaster indeed, that could literally affect millions of people that live in the affected areas. Since there real scientific evidence that the area is geologically unstable, perhaps this is an attempt by FEMA to avoid another fiasco like Hurricane Katrina, after all, it is their charter to be the first responders to any national level emergency.

It appears the FEMA is worried about the New Madrid Fault as well:

-         National Level Exercise 2011 (NLE 2011)

  • NLE 2011 will simulate the catastrophic nature of a major earthquake in the central United States region of the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ). The year 2011 is the bicentennial anniversary of the 1811 New Madrid earthquake, for which the NMSZ is named. NLE 2011 will be the first NLE to simulate a natural hazard.

No, I am not trying to downplay all the other speculation out there. I am just trying to approach this from a reasonable level on what it known versus what it not. There have been many that have pointed out that this may be part of the normal supply refresh cycle where they decided to up the ante at the same time.

Either way that you slice it, the US Government is doing exactly what all of us need to be doing, and that is preparing for the worst things that can happen to us and our families.

Personally, if FEMA wasn’t thinking about things like the New Madrid Fault letting go, I’d be pretty worried.


Free Disaster Preparedness Manual – It’s a Disaster, what are you gonna do about it?

February 8th, 2011 Tpass Staff Posted in Natural or Manmade Disasters, News and Other Preparedness Related Articles | No Comments »

Free 300+ page manual, It’s a Disaster, what are you gonna do about it.

Distributed by the District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency / FEMA & DHS.

This is an excellent resource that should be in everyone that prepares library, the manual comes in .pdf format and can be downloaded here: http://newsroom.dc.gov/file.aspx/release/16957/dc_disaster_bk_4th_ed_2008.pdf


Preparing for Biological and Chemical Terrorism: A Practical Guide to Antibiotics and Their Usage for Survival

January 24th, 2011 Tpass Staff Posted in Natural or Manmade Disasters, News and Other Preparedness Related Articles, Shelter and Protection Articles | No Comments »

This Article comes from another site, the information that it contains is for educational uses only. This site is NOT responsible for how you choose to use this information. Original Source: http://www.tetrahedron.org/articles/apocalypse/bio_chem_guide.html



Preparing for Biological and Chemical Terrorism:
A Practical Guide to Antibiotics and
Their Usage for Survival

by
Leonard G. Horowitz, D.M.D., M.A., M.P.H.
Tetrahedron, LLC
Sandpoint, Idaho

Disclaimer and Background

This information is for educational purposes only. It is intended to help in the event of biological and chemical weapons attacks on civilian populations. It is not provided in order to diagnose or treat any disease, illness, or injury of the body, mind, or spirit.

The author, publisher, and distributors of this work accept no responsibility for people using or misusing the potentially life-saving information in this text.

Individuals suffering from any disease, illness, or injury should, as Hippocrates prescribed, “learn to derive benefit from the illness.” In this sense, in the context of “America’s New War” on terrorism, diagnosing the root causes of contemporary threats best derives “benefit”. That is, comprehend the evil bringing on such illness and distress. The macroscopic–political, social, moral, and personal forces, beside the microscopic agents, are best identified to provide appropriate treatments.

The antibiotic applications against germ warfare discussed herein are not well-established medical practices. They are best considered speculative, but reasonable, given the urgent and widespread risks of biological attack for which there is no precedent, nor adequate scientific research. Discussions herein are intended to provide self-help strategies under emergency circumstances in which professional care is unavailable, as is anticipated following large-scale exposures of unprotected populations to lethal biologicals.

It must be stressed that the unsupervised lay use of antibiotics is dangerous for several reasons: 1) antibiotics may cause potentially fatal reactions (e.g., allergy, asthma, and death); 2) antibiotics can prompt greater growth, development, and spread of resistant pathogens such as fungi and Mycoplasma prompting more severe or alternative infections; 3) antibiotic usage can make it more difficult for physicians to diagnose life-threatening infectious illnesses. Thus, self-medication is not advised under normal circumstances of medical personnel availability.

Furthermore, though certain antibiotics are customarily prescribed to kill certain strains of bacteria, germ warfare presents unique challenges. Biological weapons developers have routinely developed germ strains, such as anthrax, smallpox, influenza, Mycoplasma, Brucella, and more, that are antibiotic resistant. At the same time, vaccines and vaccine manufacturers have proven themselves to be highly untrustworthy.

Moreover, in the event of a biological attack, the initial benefits of antibiotic prophylaxis and treatment may be jeopardized by a second wave of infection of the same microbe, or secondary infections with other germs. These are expected due to subsequent disease transmission by infected insects, such as flies, fleas, and ticks, and immune compromised victims in which secondary infections are common.

Typically, bacteria are classified either “Gram-positive” or “Gram-negative” due to their structure and staining characteristics, which reflect their susceptibility to certain antibiotics. The Penicillin family of antibiotics has been effective against Gram-positive infections. Alternatively, the Tetracyclines have been used successfully to combat Gram-negative agents. These will be discussed in more detail later.

Near the beginning of a widespread biological attack, it may be extremely difficult to determine precisely the causative agent, and thereby select the proper antibiotic. This is due to: 1) the latency, or slow growth period of the germ within exposed individuals, and 2) biological weapons specialists often mix microbes to be used in such a manner as to confuse diagnosis and delay effective treatment.

For instance, a consensus of authorities predicts inhalation anthrax is among the likeliest biological weapons to be used by terrorists. This is due to its relative ease of manufacture, durability of spores, and difficulty of delayed treatment. Anthrax is a Gram-positive rod-shaped Bacillus. To be more effective in killing large populations, authorities suggest that Gram-negative bacteria, such as Pasteurella tularensis, may accompany such attacks. This germ is likewise rod-shaped to confuse accurate diagnosis and delay time-critical treatment.

For the above reasons a “combination therapy” may be indicated and most useful in saving lives following a biological weapons attack.

Weights and Measurements

Safe and effective antibiotic dosages depend on accurate weights and measurements. For this reason, the following recommendations and basic knowledge is provided for lay civilians under emergency situations:

To accurately weigh antibiotics in an emergency, use the chart below. Begin by placing a ceramic cup on a postal scale. Weigh it. Next, add the powder you wish to weigh to the desired amount. For instance, if the cup alone weighs four ounces, and you require one ounce of powdered antibiotic (where, according to the chart, one ounce equals approximately thirty (30) grams, that is, thirty 1,000 milligram [mg.] doses), set (or tip) the scale at five ounces with the desired antibiotic.

The same method may be used for measuring liquid doses. However, one ounce of liquid antibiotic may weigh less than once ounce on a scale. For this reason it is wise to use a graduated measuring containing, if possible, for measuring liquids.

Weights, Measures and Conversions

Solid Weights and Measures
1 ounce (oz.) of solid = nearly 30 grams (Gm.)
1 pound (lb.) = 454 grams (Gm.)
1 kilogram (kg.) = 2.2 pounds (lb.)
1 gram (Gm.) = 1,000 milligrams (mg.)
1 grain (gr.) = 64.8 mg.

Liquid Weights and Measures
1 ounce (oz.) of liquid = nearly 30 milliliters (ml.)
1 pint = 473 ml. (sometimes rounded up to 480 ml.)
1 teaspoon (tsp.) = 5 ml.
1 tablespoon = 15 ml. (that is, half [.5] an ounce)
1 milliliter (common droppers held upright) = approximately 20 drops of liquid

Antibiotic Conversions
400,000 units of penicillin = 250 milligrams (mg.)

Antibiotic Usage and Duration of Treatment

Under normal circumstances, antibiotics are intended to be used for approximately one to two weeks. This duration is prescribed in order to kill more slowly growing germs, such as those initially in spore forms that require incubation for disease expression.

Emergency situations may require less careful treatment durations. This is particularly true if antibiotic shortages occur as expected following a biological weapons attack. In this case, rationing may be necessary and helpful in saving more lives. The shortest duration of antibiotic coverage recommended following a biological attack is from the onset of symptoms to at least 72 hours after the person’s symptoms completely disappear.

Ideally, antibiotic prophylaxis (for prevention of disease) should begin as soon as a biological weapons attack is confirmed for individuals at risk of exposure. In other words, it is best to leave risky environments in advance of possible exposures. Certainly, urban populations are at greatest risk for biological and chemical weapons attacks.

Common Allergic Reactions to Antibiotics

Again, under normal circumstances, individuals who are hypersensitive, or allergic, to antibiotics should avoid taking them. However, following a biological weapons attack, it may warrant the risk of allergic reaction, particularly if antihistamines (such as Benadryl) are available, rather than contracting the infectious disease which is often more life-threatening. In this case, individuals who develop symptoms of allergy, including skin rashes, should ideally be under the care of a physician or hospital staff. Careful monitoring of even seemingly benign skin rashes is advised because of more urgent conditions that may result from simple allergic reactions.

Individuals with known allergies to specific antibiotics should, obviously, try to avoid taking these antibiotics. Alternative antibiotics, in this case, should be sought and used. For example, people allergic to penicillin may be able to effectively substitute erythromycin.

As detailed below, there are several types of penicillin, all of which may cause severe allergies and fatal reactions. Penicillin G and penicillin V have been known to cause more severe reactions than ampicillin. Similarly, penicillin injections have been known to cause more severe reactions than similar doses taken orally.

Approximately ten percent of people allergic to penicillin are also allergic to the cephalosporin antibiotics. The good news is that the incidence of deadly reactions to the entire class of cephalosporin antibiotics is very low.

In some liquid penicillins, manufacturers mix the anesthetic procaine (i.e., Novocain) into their formulas. Therefore, persons allergic to this commonly used dental anesthetic should avoid taking liquid penicillin suspensions.

The antibiotics suggested below for use in case of bioterrorism or biowarfare do not contain sulfur or “sulfa” drugs to which many people are allergic.

Preventive Foresight Regarding Pharmaceutical Supplies

The likeliest source of breaking news concerning a biological or chemical attack, launched by terrorists or other foes, is the mainstream media. By the time you hear such reports, it is likely that hospital emergency rooms, and doctor’s offices, will be full of ailing victims. It typically takes a day or longer for symptoms of infectious diseases to manifest. The first signs and symptoms of a covert attack include inexplicable headaches and flu-like symptoms.

Such is the case with anthrax. The first indication of an anthrax attack, providing the strain had not been modified, is cattle becoming sick and dying. This can happen in a matter of hours. Moreover, this is an indication to begin antibiotic prophylaxis.

Under such trying circumstances, you can expect there to be tremendous demand for medical supplies and pharmaceuticals in the wake of a terrorist attack. It is, therefore, highly advisable to consider beforehand what medical supplies might be essential for your survival and the protection of your loved ones.

Obviously, people on a regimen of prescription drugs should stock, perhaps, a three months supply in a cool, dark, and dry closet or basement.

Antibiotics can be purchased in bulk from pharmacists or livestock and veterinarian supply stores.

In case you need to leave your home or workplace in an emergency, try to plan, in advance, transporting your antibiotics and other medicinal requirements with you. Maintain access to standard emergency kits, particularly during times of possible trouble. Keeping one in your car is a good idea, providing the car doesn’t overheat.

Given these constraints, diabetics, on the move in an emergency, should try to keep their insulin at room temperature until they are resettled. Above 80 degrees and while freezing insulin will begin to degrade.

In general, when traveling or storing antibiotics and medications in your car, be aware of extreme temperatures. Extreme heat and cold often inactivates, like insulin, many medicines.

A Simplified Guide to Antibiotics and Their Uses

Penicillins

The original penicillin-G (Pen G), along with more the common penicillin-V (Pen V), are used to fight gram-positive bacteria, such as anthrax. Pentids, the brand name for penicillin-G, come in 400 and 800mg pills. Brand names for penicillin-V include V-Cillin-K and Pen Vee K. The basic Pen G may be purchased from farm and veterinary stores for far less expense than through pharmacies, though make sure you only buy the refrigerated brand. The active ingredients in the unrefrigerated variety are far lower and potentially inadequate.

Pen G must be taken on an empty stomach. This is not as critical for Pen V. A dose of 250mg (i.e., 400,000 units), for people weighing 50 pounds or more, is taken four times daily. A rule of thumb for children weighing less than 50 pounds, the dosage should be reduced by 20% for every 10 pounds of less body weight.

These penicillins are more likely to cause allergic reactions, and fatalities, than synthetic penicillins such as ampicillin. Some of the allergic reactions are caused by procaine (Novocain) that is added in some Pen G formulas.

Ampicillin

Brand names of this synthetic penicillin include Principen, Omnipen, Polycillin and Totacillin. These are also affective against gram-positive microbes such as anthrax.

Dosages of ampicillin are the same prescribed for penicillin. This antibiotic should be taken, ideally, on an empty stomach.

Strains of anthrax that resist penicillin may be more susceptible to destruction by ampicillin. Also, ampicillin may be more helpful than penicillin for killing a broader spectrum of infections.

Cephalosporins

These are also effective against anthrax. One gram of Cephalexin taken every six hours is recommended. Brand names for this are Keflex, Keflet and Keftab. One gram of the related Cefadroxil, brand named Duricef, should be taken every twelve hours.

Erythromycin (Macrolide family of antibiotics)

Erythromycin and its relatives provide a broader spectrum of coverage than penicillins. Brand names of Erythromycin Pediamycin, Erythrocin, Eryc, EES, Ery-Tab, PCE, Ilosone, and E-Mycin. Other related antibiotics, such as clarithromycin (Biaxin) and azithromycin (Z-pak or Zithromax) may also be effective. A liquid form of erythromycin, called Gallimycin, is available for injection. The oral dose of this injectable product is the same.

Taken on an empty stomach, this may be used to treat more difficult cases of anthrax. If upset stomach occurs, it should be consumed with a bit of food. Avoid eating citrus fruits or products, which deactivate these antibiotics during digestion. Note: Fatal heart attacks may result from taking these antibiotics in combination with Seldane (terfenadine), Hismanal, or Seldane-D.

For individuals weighing 150 pounds or more, a 500mg dose is recommended. People weighing less should reduce their dosage proportionately.

Aminoglycosides

These antibiotics that are effective against anthrax, tularemia, and the Bubonic plague, include: Streptomycin, Gentamycin, and Neomycin. They can all be extremely toxic. Primary organs at risk for destruction by the aminoglycosides include the kidneys and inner ears.

Each of the aminoglycosides must be injected, and cannot be taken orally. The oral dosage forms of these antibiotics are effective only against gastrointestinal (GI) tract infections of the stomach and intestines.

Gentamycin (Garacin) powder can be purchased in bulk. It cannot be absorbed when taken orally, but it can be effective against certain biologicals striking the GI tract such as botulism.

Streptomycin, taken two to four times daily, in one to four gram doses, equally spaced throughout the day. It can be used in combination with tetracycline until the person’s fever breaks. Then the tetracycline can be continued alone. Otherwise, streptomycin should be used consistently for a week to ten days.

Gentamycin, is effective against tularemia and the plague. It should be injected intramuscularly or intravenously every eight hours in emergency measures of 1.7mg per kilogram body weight. As soon as symptoms of disease disappear, the dose should be reduced to 1.0mg per kilogram of body weight for the remaining 7-10 day period.

This antibiotic is available in bulk through veterinary stores. It is likely that this less expensive product may be successfully used orally to defend against the plague or tularemia germs infecting the gut.

Neomycin, when given in doses of 500mg, four times daily, may be helpful against anthrax, plague, and tularemia, though it has not been traditionally prescribed for these. Use this only if the other aminoglycoside antibiotics are unavailable.

Fluoroquinolones

In daily doses of 300mg per kg. of body weight (i.e., 65mg. per pound), Ciproflavoxin (Cipro) is effective against tularemia and anthrax. The daily dose should be divided into four doses taken every six hours for two weeks. Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 on the Pentagon and World Trade Center, this extremely expensive drug has been in high demand as the FDA’s antibiotic of choice against anthrax. Disturbing politics regarding this selection and its manufacturer-Bayer-may be found at http://www.tetrahedron.org.

Chloramphenicol

Effective against anthrax, tularemia and plague, Chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin) has a relatively high rate of lethal side effects. Thus, persons allergic to safer antibiotics should only use it, or in the event other medications are unavailable. More expensive than other antibiotics, this injectable product can also be consumed orally and absorbed effectively into the bloodstream. Ideally, taken on an empty stomach, it may be consumed with food to reduce stomach upsets.

Chloramphenicol has the same spectrum of activity as erythromycin. Thus, it should never be given with erythromycin unless under emergency conditions at the first sign of biowarfare-induced illness. It may, however, be taken with Tetracycline for a broader spectrum of effectiveness. This combination may be wise if it is unclear which biological weapon is causing illness, and if rationing is not in effect.

The injectable form of chloramphenicol tastes awful! For people weighing 200 pounds or more, 2,500mg doses recommended.

Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines (brand named Sumycin and Achromycin-V) are broad-spectrum antibiotics available from farm supply shops and veterinary stores in the form of oxytetracycline. These can be used effectively against all most strains of anthrax, plague, and tularemia.

Oxytetracycline comes in bulk powder form under the brand name Terramycin-343. It also comes in combination with livestock feed (Advance Calf Medic). This could be used in a pinch if other antibiotics were unavailable. There are 3 grams of active antibiotic in each pound of feed. A low dose could be provided by consuming almost 1.5 ounces; a high dose twice that could be measured and eaten.

Two newer classes of tetracycline are Doxycycline and Minocycline . Brand names for these tetracyclines include the Doxycyclines-Vibramycin, Vibra-tabs, Monodox and Doryx; and the Minocyclines called Minocin.

Tetracycline is typically taken four times a day, doxycyclines once per day or twice per day when taken with Minocycline. The two newer cyclines can be taken with food, not the older tetracycline. They, thus, tend to cause fewer stomach upsets. Doxycycline is typically less costly than traditional tetracycline, and Doxycycline and Minocycline provide a broader spectrum of antibiotic effectiveness than the old standard. Stains of biological weapons the may have been manufactured to resist tetracycline might be more susceptible to the newer cyclones.

As a rule of thumb, four 250mg doses of tetracycline are prescribed daily, that is, one dose every six hours for your typical 100-pound person. For persons weighing less than 100 pound, reduce this dose accordingly. For instance, if a 100-pound person receives 1,000mg per day, then a 50-pound person would receive 500mg per day, or four 125mg doses q. 6 hours. The Doxycycline dosage is typically 200mg the first day, and 100mg doses following for up to ten days. The oxytetracycline (Terramycin) dose is the same as standard tetracycline. Another alternative tetracycline, called demeclocycline (Declomycin), may be substituted for standard tetracycline employing the same dose schedule as well.

Preserving and Administering Your Antibiotics

Most antibiotics and drugs can be preserved by refrigeration, so long as they are kept dry. If traveling through extreme temperatures, antibiotics should be encased in Styrofoam containers, at best, and efforts should be made to avoid heat or freezing cold.

Warning: No drug should be consumed beyond its expiration date, especially Tetracycline antibiotics. Severe reactions may result from this expired antibiotic. However, when faced with a life-or-death situation, as might be presented with biological warfare or bioterrorism, such chances might have to be taken.

Antibiotics are typically administered orally or by injection. However, if the patient is comatose, the oral route may be circumvented rectally by using a plastic oral syringe available in most drugstores. This should be inserted as deeply into the rectum as possible. Use of a few drops of water, then larger amounts of cocoa butter, for dissolving the antibiotic. Cocoa butter is available in most drugstores in sticks that are melted in a jar placed in hot water. The butter is commonly used for suppositories and will hold the antibiotic for absorption better than water. Water may run out of the rectum and thereby precious antibiotic may be lost. So if water is all you have, use as little as possible to dissolve and inject the measured amount of powdered antibiotic.

Antibiotic tablets can be crushed and powdered by placing them between two napkins on a hard surface and pounding them with another flat hard object or instrument.

The absorption of active antibiotic is less, given the rectal route of administration. For this reason, the dosages should be increased to compensate.

Maintaining Healthy Gut Flora and Immunity

Three primary factors determine the outcome of a biological attack on any one individual: 1) the quantity of germs to which the person has been exposed, 2) the “pathogenicity” or power of the germs to cause disease, which depends on the unique strain, and 3) the “host resistance.” This depends on the vitality of the individual’s immune system.

Obviously, in the event of a biological or chemical attack, the first two factors are largely, if not entirely, beyond the control of individuals. It is upon this liability that terrorists act. But people can make a profound difference affecting the third factor-human immunity-by making a few simple choices. The first is, maintaining a healthy gut flora.

According to scientific literature, the bacteria in the large and small intestine help digest foods, support nutrient assimilation from foods, are critical in preventing infectious diseases for a number of reasons. For instance, Lactobacilli, commonly found in healthy guts, helps prevent infections from eating foods contaminated with biologicals such as Botulism. A healthy gut micro flora also helps with the elimination of harmful cholesterol, toxic chemicals, and cancer-causing compounds, both natural and man-made. More than 90% of human immunity is, in fact, tied to lymphatic activity around the gut. Consequently, a healthy immune system is largely dependant on the intestinal flora.

Ideally, soil-based microbes, typically found on organically grown foods, should be consumed for boosting natural immunity against infectious diseases, including anthrax and other potential biological weapons. Far more effective than eating yogurt that contains Lactobacilli, there are several products available in good health food stores that supply a full pro-biotic spectrum of soil-based microbes that many alternative health professionals have been prescribing with very favorable results. One such product is called GI Flora Pro (http://www.healingcelebrations.com; 1-888-508-4787), which sells for about $29 for a 30-day supply.
A five-step protocol for boosting natural immunity to help fight biological attacks is available from a non-profit publishing company, Tetrahedron, LLC (http://www.tetrahedron.org/; 1-800-336-9266). Their information includes how to: 1) detoxify your body, 2) deacidify your body, 3) boost natural immunity, 4) oxygenate the blood and other body tissues, and 5) bioelectrically manage infectious diseases and recoveries. The material is presented in a 225 page hardcover book titled, Healing Celebrations: Miraculous Recoveries Through Ancient Scriptures, Natural Medicine and Modern Science. The book sells for $22.85, and the advice may be life saving.

Biological Weapons
The following chart presents the biological weapons most likely to be used during a terrorist attack, and details concerning its diagnosis and treatment:

Agent Gram Staining First Symptoms
and Treatment
Anthrax positive Headache, fever,
coughing, confusion, rash, joint andjoint and muscle pain. Tx: Tetracyclines, Pen G, ampicillin and
erythromycin.

Botulism positive Weakness, blurred
vision, difficulty in speaking and swallowing, dry mouth, nausea,
vomiting, spreaking weakness, Tx: Horse antitoxin
Bubonic plague negative Fever, headache,
abdominal distress, inability to sit or stand, swollen glands particularly
in the groin, Tx: Hydration and Tetracycline
Cholera negative Watery diarrhea,
vomiting, abdominal cramping, Tx: Hydration and Tetracycline
Dengue fever parasite Intense aching in
head, muscles and joints, and fever. Second bout is accompanied by a
destructive rash . Tx: none but symptom managmt.
Ebola virus headache, fever,
malaise, cough, rash, and bleeding out. Tx: palliative
Enterotoxin B positive Staphylococcus
causes headache, nausea, fever and weakness Tx:Tetracycline, Doxycycline or broad spectrum antibiotics.

Encephalitis virus Fever and headache,
meningeal irritation, swollen parotid glands like mumps, skin rash with
some, seizures, brain dysfunction. Tx: palliative
Smallpox variola virus Severe headache,
high fever, skin rashes with vesicular and pustular stages of lesions.
Death by secondary infections. Tx: palliative.
Tularemia negative Fever, malaise,
headache, liver swelling, ulcerating skin lesions, possible lung
involvement with coughing. Tx: Streptomycin, Tetracycline and
chloramphenicol.

Chemical Weapons

The following chart presents the chemical weapons most likely to be used during
a terrorist attack, and details concerning diagnosis and self aid:

Agent Type Smell Symptoms and Self
Aid
Tubun ‘GA’ Nerve Fruity Tightness in chest.
Difficulty breathing. Runny nose. Eyepain and blurred vision. Nausea,
seating, salivation, elevated pulse, heartburn, vomiting, giddiness,
muscle spasms, involuntary urination, paralysis and respiratory arrest. Tx:
Wash off immediately and completely. Inject 2mg atropine into thigh,
followed by 4gm. Shot of parlidoxine mesylate (oxime). If symptoms
persist, give atropine again-two more 2mg doses at 15 minute intervals.
Apply emergency first aid, including CPR for artificial respiration for
approximately 2 hours if breathing stops. Atropine can cause serious side
effects and must not be used unless there is certainty that nerve gas has
caused the poisoning.
Sarin ‘GB’ Nerve Little Same as above.
Soman ‘GD’ Nerve Camphor Same as above.
VX Nerve Unknown Same as above.
Mustard Blister Garlic Eye and skin
irritant causes blistering of skin and lung damage. High risk of
developing pneumonia. Symptoms delayed for up to 48 hours. Can be fatal.
Tx: Wash off contamination immediately and completely with water. Later
washes will cause worse pain. Use mydriatics, antibiotics, and local
anesthetics to reduce pain. Treat blisters palliatively as burns. Bed
rest.
Phosgene Choking ? Lung damage. Causes
victim to drown in own mucous. Tx: Same as above.
“CN” Incapacitating Blossom Eye and skin
irritant. Tearing with breathing difficulty. Nausea and headache common.
Tx: Codeine for cough and plenty of warmth, oxygen and bed rest.
“CS” Incapacitating Pepper Severe eye
irritant. Causes coughing, tearing, flu-like symptoms, nausea, and
breathing problems. Tx: Wash eyes thoroughly with warm soap and water.
Breath lots of fresh air. Bed rest.
“BZ” Incapacitating ? Skin flushes. Heart
pounds irregularly with hastened pulse. Hallucination, giddiness and
maniacal behavior. Tx: Restrain victim. Quiet bedrest.

Clean Water and Adequate Hydration
Having a pure water source following a biological or chemical weapons attack is critical for two main reasons: 1) Victims frequently become dehydrated, and 2) Purified, or distilled, water is needed for detoxification of blood, liver, and kidneys. Following a biological or even chemical weapons attack, water supplies may be contaminated. Water distillers may be purchased, but most require electric power to run. The best transportable, non-electric, water filtration system available is the British Berkefeld�. It typically sells for $279 (http://www.prophecyandpreparedness.com/; 1-208-265-2575) and is the ideal hardware to have on hand to filter potentially contaminated water supplies in emergency or survival situations.

Healthy Food Intake and Supplies
Consider what could happen to food supplies in the wake of an anthrax attact. Cattle herds would likely need to be slaughtered causing a run on remaining beef and dairy supplies. Prices for these commodities would skyrocket. Contaminated grains might also need to be burned to prevent further spreading of the anthrax spores during harvesting and transport. Prices would likely rise here as well. There may be greatly increased demand for flour, grains, dried cereal, and probably other baking supplies as well. This is why many people have begun to stockpile some of these resources as well.

You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” If you decide to stock up on essential food supplies for survival, it’s wise to think of boosting your immunity along with receiving the greatest value for what you spend. The first and finest grain you might want to stockpile for these concerns is called amaranth. Its cost is reasonable, you can use if for baking, and best of all, it contains all of the amino acids and enzymes you need for life. The Aztec and Mayan civilizations depended mainly on amaranth and good pure water for their strength and survival.

Ideally, for immunity, you want to be eating organically grown foods. One product that contains a hefty amount of organic amaranth, and other nutritionally wholesome and immunologically supportive ingredients is called Green Harvest. Most people, under emergency conditions, could live off of this good tasting powdered food formula, mixed with water or organic juice(s). Green Harvest is available in select health-food stores, and from the manufacturer (http://www.healingcelebrations.com/; 1-888-508-4787). It costs less than $35 for a one month supply. The manufacturer supplies this product by the case at large discounts for families that wish to stock up. Their website also provides a host of other products and educational resources for boosting natural immunity for preventive health care and improved recovery rates from infectious diseases and cancers.

This document was written and posted
courtesy of Dr. Leonard G. Horowitz
and Tetrahedron, LLC
206 North 4th Avenue, Suite 147
Sandpoint, Idaho 83864

http://www.tetrahedron.org

Toll free order line: 888-508-4787;
Office telephone: 208-265-2575;
FAX: 208-265-2775
E-mail: tetra@tetrahedron.org

Due to the urgency of getting this information to the general public, all copyrights on this text have been waved by Dr. Horowitz, October 1, 2000. Please feel free to distribute this information in any form.