more trouble in the “triangle of evil” · 2010-01-12 · struck several al-qaeda training sites...

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More Trouble In The “Triangle Of Evil”

Yemeni officials recently announced that security forces had struck several al-Qaeda training sites in Yemen, killing 34 suspected militants, foiling a series of planned suicide bomb attacks at home and abroad. Points to consider: Yemen is one of the poorest countries in the Arab world. It is the ancestral home of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, in a strategic location, next door to some of the world's most important oil producing nations, like Saudi Arabia, and just across the Gulf of Aden from Somalia, an even more tumultuous nation where the U.S. has said al-Qaeda militants have been increasing their activity. It is a state that often appears on the verge of chaos, with a weak central government, a persistent insurgency, restive separatists, and a growing al-Qaeda presence. Yemen is under U.S. pressure to act more vigorously against the terror network on its territory. Consider that Yemen with its weak central government, has many areas virtually lawless, easy access to firearms and rampant poverty, and has little control over the nation's vast areas of mountains and deserts. Yemen has become a haven of choice for al-Qaeda operatives. Al-Qaeda militants, including fighters returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, have established sanctuaries among a number of Yemeni tribes, particularly ones in three provinces bordering Saudi Arabia known as the "triangle of evil". Al-Qaeda has been blamed for several attacks in Yemen, including the 2000 bombing of the USS Cole in the Gulf of Aden, which killed 17 American sailors. In September, an attack on the U.S. Embassy in San'a killed 16 people, and neighboring Saudi Arabia, fears instability in Yemen could allow this nation to become a launching pad for a revival of a 2003-2006 campaign by al-Qaeda militants to topple the ruling Al Saud family, a important U.S. ally in the area.

December 23, 2009

Yemen security forces carried out the raids in three separate locations, according to reports from Yemen. Opposition leaders said many of the dead were innocent civilians and Media reports of a U.S. role in the Yemeni attack on the al-Qaeda training sites, and mass civilian casualties resulting from the attacks, have sparked a public outcry and added to anti-American sentiments across the country. The attacks have the potential to be more of a boon than a bust for Yemen's al-Qaeda revival


Police Warn Of “Mumbai Style Attack” The UK’s Scotland Yard has intensified warnings telling businesses in the UK recently that an increase in “chatter” on prominent jihadist websites indicates that terrorists mat be planning to carry out a “Mumbai Style firearms attack on London.” Points to consider: The warning issued by the Metropolitan police counter-terrorism command through its network of “security forums”, providing business leaders, local government and the emergency services with counter-terrorism advice, has underlined an assessment that a terrorist cell may be preparing an attack on London. The warning anticipates a shooting and hostage-taking raid “involving a small number of gunmen with handguns and improvised explosive devices.” Consider that the "Mumbai blueprint" used by al-Qaeda linked groups using the "modus operandi" of attacking vulnerable civilian targets with no warning. We now we see different people, different groups in different parts of the world, copying it. Furthermore be aware that Donald N Van Duyn, a FBI intelligence officer had said when speaking about the attack on India’s financial capitol “The Mumbai attack was clearly successful and groups would look to emulate this model, and the principal lesson from the attacks reinforces the notion that a small number of trained and determined attackers with relatively unsophisticated weapons can do a great deal of damage.”

Recent Bust Highlights A Growing Alliance Three African men suspected of ties to al-Qaeda in North Africa were arrested in Ghana then shipped to New York where a criminal complaint was unsealed against the three narco-terrorists by a U.S. Attorney. These arrests further illustrate the growing alliance between terror chiefs and drug lords, portraying northwest Africa as a new danger zone. Points to consider: Terrorist groups require financial support in order to achieve their goals. They must have effective financial infrastructures, in order to succeed; the group must have the capacity to raise funds, the means to launder funds and the availability of funds to operate. Consider the findings of a November 2008 study by the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, in Washington, D.C. titled "The Money Trail: Finding, Following, and Freezing Terrorist Finances" which said in part said: “Al-Qaeda has changed the way it raises and delivers money for terrorist activities, relying more on private donations or criminal activities like the drug trade and using informal transfer methods outside of the global financial system.”

Cheap Software Used By Terrorist To Steal Video Feeds Senior defense and intelligence officials said Iranian-backed insurgents have used an off-the-shelf software program called “Sky-Grabber” to intercept live video feeds from U.S. Predator drones, taking advantage of an unprotected communications link in some of these remotely flown planes systems.

Points to consider: The security vulnerability was first discovered by US military personnel late last year, when copies of Predator video feeds were discovered on a laptop belonging to a Shiite militant, and again in July on other militants laptops. Sky-Grabber software developed by the Russian company Sky-Software intended to intercept music, photos, video, programs and other content that other users download from the Internet. The software is a simple data-leeching utility, so with a satellite dish and a few parameters you can tap into downstream data feeds, and essentially recording whatever data is transmitted to other users on a satellite network. Consider the potential that terrorists may be able to use similar software to obtain video feeds from security cameras here at home at secure installations providing them with critical information to assist in planning attacks.


Oil Pipeline Attacked Nigerian militants recently announced that they had carried out an attack on a Royal Dutch Shell or Chevron oil pipeline in Abonemma. Points to consider: The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (Mend) called the attack a "warning strike" because the Nigerian President Umaru Yar'Adua was delaying peace talks. Be aware that this is not an isolated incident; terrorists have frequently targeted pipelines (either gas or petroleum). More than 400 pipelines have been destroyed in Nigeria's oil rich Niger Delta region in the last two years. Consider that the US has an extensive network of pipelines for the transport of natural gas and petroleum that is vulnerable to both accidents and attack. The potential damage of a ruptured pipeline makes them appealing targets for extremists. Recent worldwide terrorist attacks have focused the attention on the security of critical infrastructure in particular the energy and transportation infrastructure systems. Pipeline security and safety has become a high profile, national concern.

Immigration Bust At NY Airport NY State Police arrested twelve workers at Empire Warehouse Solutions at Stewart International Airport 60 miles north of New York City, NY charging them with using forged immigration documents to get jobs. Points to consider: The workers from Mexico, Peru, Chile and El Salvador used forged Social Security and resident alien cards to get hired. Although they had access to airport operations areas, police say they didn't pose a threat to air travelers and weren't part of any larger criminal operation. Consider that according to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) inspector general Richard Skinner “air cargo is vulnerable to the introduction of explosives and other destructive items before it is loaded onto planes, placing passengers at risk from the flaws in screening air-cargo and a lack of background checks on freight handlers.”

Police Officers Killed In Border Town Recently in a series of attacks on patrol cars, gunmen killed four Mexican police officers in the city of Ciudad Juarez just across the border from El Paso, Texas. Points to consider: There have no immediate clams of responsibility or information on possible motives. Consider that nearly 2,500 people have died in drug-related violence this year in the northern state of Chihuahua. Mexico's deadliest drug cartels are said to have reached a combined force of 100,000 foot soldiers, wreaking havoc across Mexico and are threatening U.S. border-states. Mexico has become a hotbed of drug violence, claiming more than 11,000 lives since President Felipe Calderon deployed tens of thousands of soldiers and federal police nationwide to fight the cartels. Drug gangs have retaliated by stepping up attacks on police and government officials, often gunning them down in front of their homes. Their presence and ruthless tactics are largely unknown to most here but Mexican drug-trafficking organizations are said to be operating in 195 U.S. cities. The biggest worry for law enforcement groups in the US is that the cartels will bring with them the violent methods that have left about 5,000 dead since 2006.

Police Targeted In Suicide Attack Ten policemen were seriously wounded at a checkpoint in Nazran, Ingushetia, Russia recently. According to sources, police were checking vehicles with tinted windows, when a suicide bomber drove his car into the crowd of police and detonated his vehicle borne explosive device (VBIED).

Points to consider: Dubbed the “Trojan Horse” of terrorism, vehicle borne explosive devices (VBIED) have become a weapon of choice for terrorists worldwide. Terrorists have used cars, trucks or even bicycle bombs indiscriminately against many targets including first responders. Emergency personnel should always maintain a “situational awareness” of their surroundings, and if encountering a VBIED should remember that secondary devices are a favorite terrorist tactic, often planned to detonate shortly after emergency personnel arrive on scene, targeting the responders.


Washington Police Officers Targeted Again A gunman has taken aim at Police officers in Washington State the third in the last three months. Points to consider: This most recent attack occurred when two Pierce County sheriff's deputies responded to a domestic dispute in the town of Eatonville. Upon arrival at the residence the deputies were greeted at the door one brother, while another brother, the alleged shooter was in the house, laying in wait. Once the officers entered the house the alleged suspect opened fire, hitting one of the officers multiple times. The officers were seriously wounded but returned fire killing the gunman. The officers were rushed to nearby hospitals where they are reported to be in critical condition. Consider that this most recent comes three weeks after four Lakewood police officers were shot and killed at a coffee shop, and on Halloween night a Seattle Police Officer was killed as he sat in his patrol car.

Mass Transportation “Nightmare” Recently cold weather caused five trains to break down, in the Channel Tunnel linking France and Britain. More than 2,000 Euro-star passengers were trapped in four trains overnight without heat, or light for 10 hours. Points to consider: The Channel Tunnel known as “The Chunnel,” is a 31.4-mile undersea rail tunnel linking the UK with northern France beneath the English Channel. Consider the scope and extreme complexity of urban Mass Transportation emergencies. The railroad industry has long considered itself to be the safest and most secure mode of transportation, but public transit systems are open, dynamic and inherently vulnerable to accidents or attack. Train cars carry hundreds of passengers in an enclosed environment where the potential for mass casualty incidents must never be underestimated. Recognize that this incident highlights the potential for mass casualty incident that is present in our aging rail system. Prior to commencing operations, size-up is crucial in evaluating hazards, tactics, and available resources.

East Coast Hammered By Nor-Easter The first significant winter storm of the season dropped deep snow across the northeast, forcing many roadways to close, stranding motorists, and severely testing first responders. Points to consider: Consider that heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region and severely test first responders. Winter storms can result in flooding, storm surge, closed highways, blocked roads, downed power lines and hypothermia. During the winter months, residential fires are more prevalent, due in part to an increase in the number of cooking and heating fires

Police Hunt For Arsonists Police fear a blaze could turn into a major disaster in Victoria's north if the firebug responsible for a spate of arson attacks in the region is not caught. Victoria Police's Arson and Explosives Squad has been investigating at least 16 arson fires in and around Rochester, AU since October.

Points to consider: Arson is also a very difficult crime to solve; only 15% of arson cases are closed by arrest, and only 2% result in conviction. The biggest problem in solving arson is that evidence is destroyed immediately or altered significantly. Consider that the economic meltdown has taken a heavy toll worldwide. Historically, arson fires increase during times of economic crisis. Be aware that all first responders can contribute to arson investigations. Recognizing that any incident has the potential to be a crime scene, until otherwise determined, trying to preserve potential evidence that may be used by investigators.


Chemicals Storage Calls For Cautious Approach Recently Firefighters were called to an airplane fire in the Atlantic Aviation Hangar at Deer Valley Airport in Phoenix, AZ. Upon arrival firefighters were warned that chemicals were present inside a hangar that housed a plane, so the responders prudently took extra precautions before extinguishing the blaze. Points to consider: Aircraft hangars can present challenges to the fire service because they not only provide weather protection and shop space for aircraft storage, but also corrosion control (painting), and maintenance. Consider that aircraft maintenance activities necessitate the use of flammable materials, such as aviation fuels, hydraulic fluids, lubricants, cleaning solvents, and paints. Additionally, airports present special hazards to personnel. Emergencies on airport property should be responded to using considerable caution due to the airport operating environment and the hazards associated with it. Furthermore be aware of the importance of airport familiarization and coordination with airport personnel during emergencies to ensure that response procedures are carried out in a safe and efficient manner during an emergency.

Home Explosion Under Investigation An explosion turned a Delmar, PA house into a chemical-filled orange fireball recently, seriously injuring a teenage boy. The 15-year-old boy was severely burned doing unspecified work when the explosion occurred setting fire to his home Points to consider: Firefighters did not fight the blaze and instead focused efforts on ensuring that the fire did not spread to adjacent homes, because they feared that the hazardous chemicals present could cause more explosions.

Hazardous Dehumidifiers Home Depot Inc is recalling about 2,000 Chinese made dehumidifiers after numerous reports of the appliances causing fires due to a faulty internal component. Points to consider: Home Depot has received 18 reports of the dehumidifiers causing fires. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) an internal component can fail causing the "Hampton Bay" labeled dehumidifiers to overheat, posing fire and burn hazards.

Forklift Accident Triggers Hazmat Response A forklift accident at the Medline building located in the Cabot Business Park in Mansfield, MA recently triggered a response by a hazardous materials team. The accident resulted in a spill of sulfuric acid from the forklifts battery, which the Hazmat team was able to contain and then “chemically neutralize the acid. Points to consider: Sulfuric acid (UN 1830) is a thick oily odorless liquid, but has a choking odor when hot. Considered highly corrosive, it will react with water to produce toxic and corrosive fumes. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect and stay in low areas. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook guide # 137.

Blaze Engulfs Century Old Boston Church A fire recently ravaged a South Boston beloved landmark: the 105-year-old St. Peter Lithuanian Church. Smoke poured out of the shattered stained glass windows of the church just before noon, which was once was slated for closure.

Points to consider: Consider that older gothic-style churches are characterized with high ceilings, and huge concealed spaces above the main body of the church. Because of the high ceiling a high rate of water flow is required, and once the fire reaches the structure supporting the roof, collapse is possible. For these reasons a thorough size-up should be conducted prior to commencement of operations, and if an advance fire is present, exterior/defensive tactics should be considered.


Workers Overcome By Chemical Cloud Eight people were hospitalized after being exposed to an ammonia cloud at Pro Pac Labs in Ogden, Utah recently. The employees were cleaning some equipment when fumes overcame them after mixing ammonia with bleach. Points to consider: Consider that mixing bleach and ammonia will result is a release of chlorine gas. As a rule of thumb, never mix any household cleaners together, as many of them have either a bleach or ammonia base. Additionally, chlorine gas is heavier than air, with strong irritating bleach like odor. It is a corrosive and irritating to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Chlorine is an oxidizer and may explode or accelerate combustion if in contact with reducing agents. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 124.

Propane Tanker Cars Derail Six BNSF tanker cars filled with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) derailed near Anacortes, WA recently. Hazmat teams checked the tankers for leaks and as a precaution, nearby houses were evacuated, prior to righting the cars. Points to consider: Propane/LPG (UN 1075) is odorless, tasteless, and colorless in its natural state; an odorant (ethyl mercapitan) is added similar to natural gas, so that leaks may be detected. Propane is easily ignited, heavier than air, therefore, it may collect in low areas or travel along the ground where an ignition source may be present. Be aware that pressure in a container can build up due to heat, and it may rupture (BLEVE) if pressure relief devices should fail to function. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 115.

Workers Are Overcome By Noxious Chemical Fumes Employees of the Garden Isle Recycling Center in Kauai, HI were treated at a local hospital following exposure to noxious fumes recently. First responders found liquid bubbling on the ground near a pile of empty or partially empty bottles of drain and glass cleaners and paint thinner in plastic containers to be recycled, taking samples of for testing. Points to consider: Consider the potential health or safety concerns at operations at these facilities. Although hazardous materials such as radioactive materials, biological/Medical waste, explosives, ammunition, and fireworks are generally not allowed, many household chemicals can pose serious health risks if not disposed of properly.

Chemical Spill Shuts Down Dixie Highway The driver of a tractor-trailer hauling four 3,200-pound containers of hydrofluofilic acid and a 26,880-pound cylinder of chlorine on Interstate 71/75 in Fort Mitchell, Ohio recently noticed a leak. He pulled over and found that the acid container had spilled and the substance was leaking onto the roadway. As a precautionary measure, police shut down Dixie Highway at the I-75 overpass while hazardous material teams contained and neutralized the acid spill.

Points to consider: Hydrofluoric acid (Hydrogen fluoride) UN: 1790 is a corrosive, poisonous liquid. It contains fluorine and has an acrid (Strong.) odor. It can exist as a colorless gas; a fuming liquid, or it can be dissolved in water. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 157.


Chemical Dump Hazmat teams suited up in Level 1 protective suits to check the contents of six drums bearing hazardous material markings abandoned in Aflex, Ky. The technicians tested the substance and identified it as tetrachloroethylene, a chemical used as a heavy degreaser in dry cleaning. Points to consider: Tetrachloroethylene (UN 1897) is a clear, colorless liquid with an ethereal odor. Stable under ordinary conditions of use and storage. Irritating to the upper respiratory tract causes irritation to skin. Not considered to be a fire hazard but becomes hazardous in a fire situation because of vapor generation and possible degradation to phosgene (highly toxic) and hydrogen chloride (corrosive). Vapors are heavier than air and collect in low-lying areas. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 160.

Helium Gas Suspected Of Causing Death A chambermaid recently found a dead man in a room at the Connaught Hotel in Prince George, B.C. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) called for a Hazardous Materials team who donned the proper level of personnel protective equipment then entered the room and discovering an unknown substance, which was later identified as helium gas. Points to consider: Helium UN1046 (gas); UN1963 (liquid refrigerated) is a gas at normal temperature and pressure. It is an asphyxiant; effects are due to lack of oxygen. Moderate concentrations may cause headache, drowsiness, dizziness, excitation, excess salivation, vomiting, and unconsciousness. Lack of oxygen can kill. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 121 (gas) # 120 (cryogenic liquid).

Hazmat Spill A truck was pulling a 500-gallon tank of anhydrous ammonia in Whitewater, KS recently when the tank rolled off of its axles and hit the ground, damaging the pressure relief valve allowing the anhydrous ammonia to leak. The Butler County Hazmat team responded stopped the leak then transferring the remaining chemical to another tank. Points to consider: Anhydrous ammonia (UN 1005) has a strong, pungent odor and may be shipped or stored as a compressed gas or cryogenic liquid. It produces a toxic, visible or invisible gas cloud that is lighter than air but may hug the ground when cool. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 125.

Explosive Rollover An Austin Powder Company semi-truck carrying an explosive shipment (18,000 lbs of ammonia nitrate & 1,000 lbs of blasting powder) veered off the road into a ditch rolling over, spilling diesel fuel, the fertilizer, and blasting powder near Spicer, Minn. The Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office responded to the accident, secured the scene, by closing the Minnesota Highway and evacuating residents from a one-mile radius.

Points to consider: An ammonium nitrate and urea mixture (UN 3370, or UN 1357) is said to be a basic solution. It reacts with acids, and can react with both oxidizing agents and reducing agent. It may be subject to detonation if allowed to dry out. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 113.


Tanker Truck Crash Shuts Down SR-167 A tanker truck carrying liquid carbon dioxide veered off the road and crashed into an Overpass, causing officials to close State Route 167 in Auburn, Washington recently. Structural engineers first inspected the overpass to make sure it is safe prior to the Hazmat crew dealing with the carbon dioxide that leaked from the truck. Points to consider: Carbon dioxide (UN 1013) is a nonflammable gas with a wide range of commercial uses. At room temperature, carbon dioxide takes the form of an odorless, colorless gas, which is incombustible in normal conditions. Carbon dioxide vapor is heavier than air and will accumulate in low areas. For general operating procedures refer the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 120.

Overturned Propane Tanker Closes I-40 A 9,000-gallon propane tanker was involved in a vehicular accident with a car on I-40 near Thoreau, NM recently, resulting in the tanker overturning and leaking an estimated 1,000 gallons of the compressed gas. Points to consider: New Mexico State Police closed the highway while the remainder of the propane was off-loaded to another tanker. Consider that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) (UN 1075) is a flammable gas, and may burn with an almost invisible flame in bright light. In concentrated amounts and in uncontrolled conditions, Liquefied petroleum gas has the potential to create a fire or an explosion. It is stored under pressure, is heavier than air, so any significant leak will move downwards and stay on the ground. LPG will accumulate in any low-lying area such as depressions in the ground, drains or pits. . Be aware that pressure in a container can build up due to heat, and it may rupture (BLEVE) if pressure relief devices should fail to function. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 115.

Oil Pipeline Ruptures A ConocoPhillips petroleum pipeline was shut recently after it spilled an estimated 1,200 barrels of petroleum products near Billings, Montana. Points to consider: Consider that the US has an extensive network of pipelines for the transport of refined petroleum that is vulnerable to both accidents and attack. The potential damage of a ruptured pipeline makes them appealing targets for extremists. Recent worldwide terrorist attacks have focused the attention on the security of critical infrastructure in particular the energy and transportation infrastructure systems. Pipeline security and safety has become a high profile, national concern. Consider that our nation’s sophisticated network comprises 2.3 million miles of mostly unguarded pipelines, varying in size from 2 inches to 60 inches in diameter. Be aware of potential targets and the procedures to be implemented in the event of an attack.

Gas Leak Capped Police shut down Interstate 70 in Kansas City MO after construction crews struck a gas line while tearing down a building. Hazardous materials crews responded checking exposed buildings then assisted Missouri Gas Energy in capping the leak

Points to consider: Natural gas (UN 1971) is extremely flammable and forms flammable mixtures with air. It will burn in the open or be explosive in confined spaces. Its vapors are lighter than air and will disperse. It has no color, odor, or taste, leaks are usually detected due to the additive mercaptan, which gives it a distinctive “rotten egg” odor, but the additive can be filtered out by the soil. Responders should be aware that natural gas leaking up through soil may-be scrubbed of the mercaptan odor, leaving the gas odorless and undetectable without a combustible gas meter. Always use meters to test for natural gas


Heater Said To Be Source Of Deadly CO Firefighters responded to the Pine Valley Trailer Park in Sissonville, WV recently, finding two adults and two children suffering from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The victims were taken to a nearby hospital, and the responders located the source of the deadly CO, a kerosene heater. Points to consider: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly, colorless, odorless, poisonous gas, produced by the incomplete burning of various fuels. At lower levels of exposure, CO causes mild effects that are often mistaken for the flu. These symptoms include headaches, dizziness, disorientation, nausea and fatigue. The effects of CO exposure can vary greatly from person to person depending on age, overall health and the concentration and length of exposure. Consider that Statistics show, on average, about 170 people in the United States die every year from CO, and with winter approaching responders should be aware to its hazards.

Workers Sickened By Chlorine Gas Four employees at Boston Sports Club in Wellesley, MA were hospitalized recently after a pool worker inadvertently added a gallon of muriatic acid to a 150-gallon drum of chlorine, producing noxious fumes. Points to consider: To dispose of the toxic mixture the Hazmat team poured the chlorine solution containing the muriatic acid into an 88,000-gallon swimming pool. Furthermore, be aware that when chlorine bleach is mixed with an acid, produces chlorine gas. Chlorine gas and water combine to make hydrochloric and hypochlorous acids. Chlorine gas exposure, even at low levels, almost always irritates the mucous membranes (eyes, throat, and nose), and causes breathing problems, higher levels of exposure can cause chest pain, more severe breathing difficulties. Very high levels can cause death.

Gasoline Tank Explosion Two workers suffered minor injuries while inspecting an underground gasoline tank at the Exxon Short Shop in Lakeview, NC when it suddenly exploded creating a 25-foot fireball. The men had been using a power grinder while inspecting the underground tank when gasoline vapors apparently ignited. Points to consider: Gasoline (UN 1203) is highly flammable colorless to yellow liquid which may be dyed to a range of colors. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Initial operations may include, removal of all ignition sources, and the application of foam to large areas of spilled liquid to control vapors. For general operating procedures, refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide #128.

Explosions Level Gas Plant Building Recently two large explosions preceded a fire that leveled a maintenance building adjacent to Fairbanks Natural Gas plant north of Anchorage, Alaska.

Points to consider: When the first responders arrived, they found the building totally collapsed and on fire. Fairbanks Natural Gas employees shut off the gas to the plant, and officials decided to use defensive tactics letting the fire burn itself out and have firefighters protect exposed property spraying water on several nearby buildings and tanker cars to cool them.

Salt Lake City Arson Attack The bomb squad was called to the Mi Ranchito restaurant in Salt Lake City, Utah after a Molotov cocktail was thrown through the window. Fortunately the bottle did not break, and only a chair cushion burned. Points to consider: A Molotov cocktail (or petrol bomb) is a crude incendiary weapon consisting of a glass bottle semi-filled with flammable liquid, usually gasoline or alcohol. The mouth of the bottle has a cork or other type of airtight bung, and a cloth rag fixed securely around the mouth. The weapon is used by first soaking the rag in a flammable liquid immediately prior to using it, lighting the rag and throwing the bottle at the target. The bottle shatters on impact, spilling the flammable liquid, which is then ignited by the burning rag.


Hazardous Material Freight Train Derails In WA A BNSF freight train traveling from Chicago to Seattle derailed recently near Gold Bar, Washington. One flat car carrying six cargo containers containing a mixed freight load including some hazardous materials which included aerosol sprays and bug repellants. Fortunately none of the materials spilled. Points to consider: Rail cars filled with hazardous material may be the single biggest threat from a derailment or act of sabotage related to the nation's railroads, and once again illustrates the vulnerability of our transportation system. An estimated 110,000 carloads of toxic chemicals, and 1.6 million carloads of other hazardous materials are transported by rail each year. First responders should be aware that bulk containers transporting hazardous materials are required have placards, as per the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, providing an information source of material carried. Prior to commencement of operations the identification of cargo is paramount either by the manifests carried by the trains engineer or hazard warning placards. Be aware this railroad's cargo is indicative of the potential safety threats posed by trains carrying hazardous cargo

Anhydrous Ammonia Spills on US-30 A passenger car on U.S. 30 in Warsaw, IN hit a semi tanker truck hauling anhydrous ammonia recently. The vehicle slammed into the side of a semi-tanker, causing the tanker to jack-knife and eventually rollover causing its hazardous cargo to leak. Points to consider: A HAZMAT crew was called to the scene, and after donning the proper level of personnel protective equipment, transferred the anhydrous ammonia to another tanker. Consider that anhydrous ammonia (UN1005) is classified by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as a Class 2.2 Non-flammable Gas. Unfortunately, this classification leaves two important hazards of anhydrous ammonia unidentified by the DOT labeling system. Not only will anhydrous ammonia burn under certain conditions, it is classified as a corrosive liquid and poison gas in other parts of the world Responders to incidents involving anhydrous ammonia will require Level A chemical protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) to protect them or to perform rescue. Gas is lighter then air, produces a toxic, visible or invisible gas cloud, which may hug the ground when cool. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 125.

Ammonia Leak Prompts Evacuation Employees from the Cook's Ham plant in South Kansas City, MO were evacuated recently because of an anhydrous ammonia leak from the buildings refrigeration system. One person was transported to a hospital for treatment and seven others treated at the scene. Points to consider: Anhydrous ammonia (UN 1005) has a strong, pungent odor and may be shipped or stored as a compressed gas or cryogenic liquid. It produces a toxic, visible or invisible gas cloud that is lighter than air but may hug the ground when cool. For general operating procedures refer to the Emergency Response Guidebook, guide # 125.

Old And Unstable Explosives Found The Oregon State Police bomb squad was called recently to dispose of old explosives after a man found the explosives while cleaning out his father’s residence in Gold Beach, Oregon.

Points to consider: The bomb squad technicians safely removed the explosives describing them as “old and unstable,” then swept the house to ensure that no additional explosives were present. As first responder we should, be aware the most important rule with explosives remains: Do not disturb it. Evacuate the area immediately and ensure that no one reenters the area. Establish an initial "exclusion area". You can adjust the size of the area, if needed, considering the type of explosive, the physical size of the package and the surrounding area. Remember that upon the discovery of explosives devices at any operation the appropriate agencies shall be notified promptly.


Terrorism Havens: Yemen http://www.cfr.org/publication/9369/

Mumbai attack differs from past terror strikes http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/analysis_mumbai_atta.php

A Drug Smuggling and Terrorism Hub http://www.africanexecutive.com/modules/magazine/articles.php?article=4288

Oil Pipelines http://www.pipeline101.com/Overview/crude-pl.html

Mexico's Drug Cartels http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/row/RL34215.pdf

The IED and VBIED Threat Smart Card http://www.fas.org/irp/doddir/army/ied‐smartcard.pdf

Training for Railroad Emergencies http://www.fireengineering.com/display_article/364394/25/none/none/Depar/Training-for-Railroad-Emergencies

NIOSH Pocket Guide: Tetrachloroethylene http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg/npgd0599.html

AMMONIA http://scifun.chem.wisc.edu/chemweek/pdf/ammonia.pdf

Chlorine Gas Exposure http://deploymenthealthlibrary.fhp.osd.mil/products/Chlorine%20Gas%20(300).pdf

Carbon Monoxide – The Silent Killer http://www.charmeck.org/Departments/Carbon+Monoxide/Facts/Home.htm

Security Solutions International, Kendall Tamiami Executive Airport,

14300 S.W. 129th Street, Suite 204, Miami, Fl. 33186 866-573-3999 Office, 866-573-2090 Fax http://www.homelandsecurityssi.com/

more trouble in the “triangle of evil” · 2010-01-12 · struck several al-qaeda training sites...

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