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[Photo Galleries ][Polls Discussion ] Posted by NukeML on February 13, 2003 at 05:14:54: People on this side of the pond are starting to get plain silly. Somehow it got into the minds of the public that if they stuck clear plastic film to their windows, it would render their homes impervious to chemical and biological attacks. As a result, hardware stores are crammed with the mindless hordes buying up all the plastic sheeting and duct-tape in sight. How thick is this plastic? About the same as the thickness of a sheet of cling film, which is just thick enough for chemical agents to soak through in seconds. In addition, sales of door sealer and caulk have gone through the roof in the panic. A big problem with this tactic is that American homes, being predominantly wooden, are designed so that air can flow freely through the attic and basement in order to prevent rot and mold from forming. To attempt to effectively block every stray draft is an exercise in futility. Also, since the two pathogens of choice for terrorist (namely smallpox and anthrax) are highly persistent, the most likely way that these agents would enter a home is by hitching a ride on the occupants clothing or on items that the homeowner brings inside the house. So what should the average person do? Heres a few things: 1. Wash all your fruit and vegetables thoroughly. Sabotage is an ideal way to dessiminate a CB agent. 2. Don't waste your time buying protective masks. It is unlikely that the filters are serviceable, so you would only die a few hundred dollars poorer. 3. Try to avoid hospital waiting rooms if possible. Terrorists with no concern for their own lives probably wouldn't have any qualms about sickening themselves then infecting a few hospitals. I'm posting this because I know that many regulars live stateside, and also to illustrate for the rest of you the state of panic felt by many Americans currently. How's everyone in Breaffy?
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