First response to terrorist bombings

This paper highlights considerations for a successful response to an incident involving a terrorist bombing. First, it describes the characteristics of bombing as a tactic that make the threat of a bombing highly relevant in a world where the emphasis has shifted to other weapons of mass destruction, such as chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons. It then identifies the roles and responsibilities of the various agencies that respond to a bombing incident, and how they relate to each other. Further it describes the hazards commonly associated with response to a bombing incident, and identifies the priorities associated with such a response. The paper then summarizes actions to be taken as part of the initial incident response. Finally, the keys to a successful response are discussed, based on lessons learned from such incidents as the Murrah Building bombing and the tragic attacks of 9-11. The paper emphasizes that a truly successful response includes the achievement of the goals of all the agencies involved.