Terrorism AwarenessQuestion 192 of 200

Which set of observations would most strongly suggest a possible chemical attack rather than a routine incident?

a.A single person with a routine illness
b.Multiple unexplained casualties clustered in one area, unusual odors (almonds, garlic, freshly cut grass), dead vegetation or animals in the same area, and witnesses reporting eye/respiratory irritation
c.A standard delivery truck unloading at a posted dock
d.Normal HVAC system operation with no reports of distress

Explanation

Chemical-attack indicators taught in CDC and DHS modules include sudden clustered casualties with similar symptoms, unusual odors (almonds may suggest cyanide, garlic may suggest mustard agent, freshly cut grass may suggest phosgene — although many agents are odorless), dead vegetation or animals in proximity, and witnesses reporting eye/skin/respiratory irritation. Single illness (a) is generally not a chemical attack signal; routine deliveries (c) and normal HVAC (d) do not suggest attack. Response: move upwind/uphill, deny entry, call 911 specifying possible chemical incident.

Law Reference: DHS CBRNE indicator training; CDC chemical-event recognition

Practice all 200 questions free — no signup required.

Related questions on this topic

Last reviewed: · editorial process

PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California BSIS Guard Card Exam · How we review
Report