Empowering yourself against the unknown

By Ilana Freedman
Special to JTNews

What you can do to empower yourself and your family

Friday, September 1, 2006

Here are some simple things you can do to empower yourself and your family:

1. Be alert. If you see something suspicious, don't hesitate to call the police. In Israel, where terrorism is a constant threat, even the smallest child knows that an unattended package (which may be a bomb) or a man in an overcoat on a hot summer day (who may be wearing a suicide belt) is reason enough to call the police.

We too must adjust to this unfamiliar way of thinking. The police want your help because their resources are limited and they cannot be everywhere. They are trained and ready to respond. Don’t worry that your suspicions may prove to be unfounded. It is better to be wrong many times if it means being right only once.

2. Be prepared. When the next attack takes place, it will come as a shock. No matter how we may anticipate it, it will be traumatic. But you can help cushion the blow by being prepared. Here are some simple tips:

• Know how to reach every member of your family and arrange either how to be in contact or where to meet. Consider what you will do under extreme circumstances: if there is no phone service, or no public transportation, or if the roads are closed and you have to stay where you are for any length of time.
• Be prepared to evacuate your home with very little notice. A "go-bag" with essentials (small battery-powered radio, medications, meal replacement bars and small bottles of water, a flashlight, etc.) should be kept in an easy-to-find place.
• Keep at least three days' worth of food, water, and essential medications in your home and place of work, in case you cannot leave for some time after a terrorist attack. Even if your own town or city is not directly involved, there are many reasons why you may be instructed to stay in your home for an extended period.
• Talk to your neighbors and friends, and especially to your children, who may be hiding their fears and need to make a contribution so they, too, feel empowered. Share your concerns and brainstorm to find some solutions for your home and your community.

return to top — print view

Home | Services | Methodologies | About Terrorism | About GGi | Our Values | The GGi Team | Links | Contact GGi