HAGÅTÑA, Guam — In the wake of North Korea’s threat to launch a missile attack against Guam, the territory’s Homeland Security department issued new guidelines to prepare for an imminent missile threat.
The two-page fact sheet includes tips such as: “Do not look at the flash or fireball – It can blind you” and “Take cover behind anything that might offer protection.”
“Lie flat on the ground and cover your head. If the explosion is some distance away, it could take 30 seconds or more for the blast wave to hit,” the sheet states.
During a news conference late Friday afternoon, Gov. Eddie Calvo said the threat level remains the same and that the island is “safe and sound.”
“There are no changes,” said Calvo. “Everyone should continue to live their lives.”
While the governor said there’s no imminent threat to the island, he said families should still be prepared for any situation, including inclement weather, and establish a family emergency plan.
Homeland Security said residents should prepare an emergency supply kit and a family emergency plan. During an imminent missile threat, authorities recommend taking cover as quickly as possible under a concrete structure or below ground after an attack warning is issued.
People also should avoid going outside for at least 24 hours to avoid any possible radioactive material, unless otherwise told by authorities.
If possible, take a shower with lots of soap and water, shampoo but avoid using conditioner that will bind to any radioactive material in your hair, the fact sheet states.
After the explosion, people are encouraged to keep an eye and an ear out for official information so they know where to go, what to do and places to avoid.
Schools are safe buildings and teachers and staff should have detailed plans for emergencies. If children are in school, parents are advised to listen to the news, avoid calling the school and wait for instructions to pick up your child, the fact sheet states.
Guam Homeland Security spokeswoman Jenna Gaminde said the information from the fact sheet was gathered from the federal Department of Homeland Security website, www.ready.gov.
In the event of an imminent missile threat, Guam Homeland Security will use all forms of mass communication to alert the public, Gaminde said. This includes sounding all 15 All Hazards Alert Warning System sirens located in low-lying areas through the island. Emergency information also will be published on television and broadcast in emergency radio announcements.
The department will send alerts to local media and village mayors and publish information on its website and social media sites if there is an imminent threat.
“We recognize these are all separate forms of communication and rely on all during emergencies,” Gaminde said.
Follow Jasmine Stole on Twitter: @StoleJasmine
I guess they have to be prepared. The US and/or China may let this happen and will be exactly the provocation needed for their war….