What you should do during a biological warfare attack

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A bioterror attack employs the use of biological agents. The government explains biological agents as "organisms or toxins that can kill or incapacitate people, livestock and crops." This kind of attack has been designed to make its victims sick through germs, bacteria, and virus that spread infection and disease. Since the dispersal of a biochemical agent can be sudden or stealthy, you’ll need to understand the signs of an attack and react in an informed manner, to prevent harm to yourself and your loved ones, says public health professional Martin Sanders.

In case you were given adequate time to prepare for the attack, you should prepare your disaster kits and formulate a family emergency escape plan.

You should visit your doctor and check immunization records for each of your family members and get yourselves vaccinated for shots you’re missing. You should prepare your home by installing HEPA filter kits on your ventilation or furnace return ducts.

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During the attack itself, you should find information about the disease, where supply drops are being made, and where vaccinations are being given. You will need to remove yourself from any area you suspect is the attack site. You and your family members should wear face masks or at least cover your nose and mouth with three layers of clean cloth. Isolate and decontaminate yourself if you believe you've been infected. If that is the case, avoid crowds, approach emergency medical responders, and undergo quarantine. Do not infect others by sharing utensils or staying with them in close quarters.

After the attack, you will need medical checkup in order to see if you’re well, advises Martin Sanders. Should the attack be widespread, it’s possible doctors and responders in your area will be busy. You can wait and listen to any announcements about the nature of the agent and follow instructions from your local government. You can also seek information about the agents in the Center for Disease Control website. Of course, you should still actively seek the attention of medical and emergency personnel as much as possible.

Capt. Ph.D., has completed all requirements needed to obtain a certification as an Associate Safety Professional (ASP) and a Certified Safety Professional (CSP). For more insightful reads on public safety, visit this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.

How to lower your chances of contracting airborne diseases

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In a world where a trip to the emergency room can bury you in debt, staying healthy should be everyone’s priority. Prevention is better than expensive treatment, especially if the diseases one can get are avoidable. According to Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, airborne diseases are very common and at the same time, quite preventable. Here are some ways on how to lower your chances of contracting airborne diseases like influenza, the common cold, measles, and mumps.

If you know that a person is sick with a disease that can be transferred, avoid close contact with them. The same goes for people who show symptoms of the disease like coughing, sneezing, having a runny nose, or have a sore throat.

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to spot people who display these types of symptoms, especially when one is in transit. It can also be possible that avoiding people who show these symptoms is not something you can do. It could be a co-worker that came in ill or a sick customer ordering coffee. In these cases, you can wear a face mask to prevent breathing in germs.

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While you could be safe from inhaling germs, your hands can be the vehicle to which they enter your body. According to Capt. Martin Sanders, one must wash their hands thoroughly and as often as possible. Also, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.

Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, is a scientist officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service. He has more than 10 years of service in the field of epidemiology and occupational safety and health, with extensive experience in biological defense activities and infectious disease outbreak investigation. For more articles like this, visit thisblog.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.

What to do during a powerful earthquake

An earthquake is one of the most unpredictable natural phenomena that occurs almost every day in various degrees of intensity and in different locations around the world. While weaker earthquakes can easily be shrugged off, powerful earthquakes can decimate towns and cities in mere seconds. According to public safety expert Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, it is important to know what to do during a powerful earthquake. How you react in the first few seconds of the earthquake can determine your survival. Here are actions you must do to ensure your safety during a powerful earthquake.

If you are indoors, quickly go under a table or any other sturdy piece of furniture to shield you from falling debris. Stick to the side closest to the legs of the table instead of the middle. This is because a heavy object could fall on the table and split the table in half. If there aren’t any covers available, drop down and cover your face and head with your arms. Also, remember to quickly move away from windows or any glass fixtures.

Wait until the shaking stops before heading outside. Research has shown that most injuries occur when people try to exit buildings while the earthquake is still ongoing. Once the shaking stops, use emergency stairs instead of elevators. If you feel that a hallway is unsafe to pass due to loose debris, find an alternate route to the exit.

If you are outside when the earthquake occurs, quickly move away from buildings with windows that may shatter and fall on you. Likewise, distance yourself from nearby power lines or other structures like scaffolding which may buckle. According to Martin Sanders, everyone should know how to properly react during a powerful earthquake. Remember not to panic and keep a level head.

Capt. Martin Sanders, Ph.D., has years of experience in the field of occupational safety and health. He recently obtained a certification as a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) awarded by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals. For more reads on public safety, visit this page.
Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department

Tips to protect your eyes at work

Eye-related injuries in the workplace aren’t a rare occurrence.  According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), around 2,000 U.S. workers every day sustain job-related eye injuries that require medical attention.  Safety experts, however, believe that 90 percent of these injuries can be lessened in severity or entirely prevented with proper eye protection.  Here are some tips to consider.

Know eye hazards at work

Every company should identify eye hazards and properly communicate them to workers.  Look for safety measures in place and observe them at all times while at work.  Complete an eye hazard assessment, too.


Identify the red flags

Increasing the risk of eye injury in the workplace includes the lack of eye protection, workers not wearing eye protection even if it’s available, insufficient knowledge of properly operating tools and equipment, and work involving the use of metal.  Seek to address and discuss these concerns with management.


Select the right type of eye protection

Safety glasses, while they resemble regular dress eyewear, have lenses and frames that are much stronger than regular eyeglasses.  They protect against dust, chips, or flying particles when one is working.  Goggles shield against dust, impact, and chemical splash, while face shields and helmets protect those exposed to chemicals, heat, or blood-borne pathogens.


Apply proper first aid or seek medical attention

Seek medical help as soon as possible after an injury, especially if there’s eye pain, blurred vision, or vision loss.  Apply proper first aid for chemicals or particles in the eye, as well as for bows or cuts and punctures.

Captain Martin Sanders is an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) where the Surgeon General had appointed him as Chief Scientist. He has had nearly two decades of service in the field of occupational safety and health. For more articles like this, visit this page.

Frederick County: Setting an example in emergency planning and management

In this day and age, the wealth of information and technology should be used to ensure the safety of communities especially in times of disasters and emergencies. In Frederick County, Maryland, having a countywide emergency notification system serves as the first step toward assisting citizens when these unwanted situations arise. 

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Along with an information system, drafting an emergency plan is also important. Sharing knowledge on how to keep people, property, pets, and other valuables safe can prevent devastating loss in times of disasters. Through the county's Emergency Preparedness, Emergency Management, and Emergency Communications departments, the community is encouraged to be aware of what they should prepare for and what they can do in times of need. The Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) systems can further reinforce the steps citizens can take to ensure their safety as well as provide information on where they can find shelter and assistance. 

Before establishing a reliable emergency planning and management system, Frederick County has also been known for having an outstanding emergency medical system in place. This year, the county’s EMS system was named the outstanding emergency medical services agency in the state of Maryland. The recognition was given by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems. In the past year, the Frederick EMS earned national accreditation for their paramedic training. In partnership with the Division of Fire and Rescue Services, the Health Department, and the Regional Health System, they have also launched a mobile integrated health program that will reach more citizens especially those with major health concerns but unable to visit the hospital regularly. 

The continued cooperation of different sectors will ensure the whole county’s safety. By bringing together their skills and excellence, citizens can trust in authorities that will come to their rescue when emergencies happen. 

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Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., is the former Chief of Safety for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), responsible for the HHS regulatory oversight related to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Visit this page for more information on public safety and emergency preparedness.

Can Stainless Steel Straws Create a Difference?

Climate change has been a global concern these days. Plastic is one of the culprits for marine wildlife death and environmental decay, and it’s just about time people switch to eco-friendly alternatives. Using plastic straws alone leave a significant strain on the environment.

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Plastic straws have BPA, a harmful chemical that copies the activities of hormones like estrogen. Exposure to this chemical can lead to reproductive disorders as well as diabetes and heart disease. If a person uses a plastic straw every day, there would be 365 straws put to waste in a year. This is why it is important to look for a better alternative, like stainless steel straws. Here are advantages of using one.

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Reusable: Unlike plastic straws that can only be used once, stainless steel straws can be reused for years if properly cleaned. It also does not interact with what is being consumed.

Great for travel: Stainless steel straws can be used anywhere. It is perfect for travelers, fitness buffs, and people who are always thirsty. Most stainless steel straws come with a holder and a brush, so it’s easy to clean and bring wherever.

Safe for children: Unlike glass or plastic straws, stainless steel straws are durable and safe for young children. It does not easily break and is safe for handling.

For more articles like this, visit this Martin Sanders blog.

The Ebola Virus Is Still a Global Threat

Just recently, another outbreak of the dreaded Ebola virus has been declared in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The disease manifests in hemorrhagic fever and, from 21 suspected cases, has led to 17 deaths since March of this year, according to the World Health Organization.

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Ebola virus has been one of the most dangerous diseases in the world since its discovery in the latter half of the ‘70s, jumping to people from wild animals such as chimpanzees and monkeys. Ebola has been seen to have five strains that can spread through human-to-human transmission, with an average fatality rate of about 50 percent. 

This is the ninth outbreak of the Ebola virus in the Congo, and epidemiologists have named as country as the most prevalent setting for the appearance and contraction of the virus. The last outbreak happened only last year, but thankfully, was immediately contained by the WHO, the government, and other health affiliates like Doctors Without Borders. 

It’s important that the WHO is working closely on dealing with the deadly virus, releasing the needed funds and initiating its Incident Management System with dedicated staff and resources. Still, the chances of Ebola moving to neighboring countries like Liberia is high. Indeed, there’s no reason to downplay the disease even in the late 2010s. Without established measures and health organizations fully dedicated to containing Ebola, a global outbreak is more than just possible. 

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Captain Martin Sanders has more than 12 years of service in the field of epidemiology and occupational safety and health, with extensive experience in biological defense activities and infectious disease outbreak investigation. Click here for related reads.