Stockpiles of antibiotics, vaccines, anti-viral drugs, and chemical antidotes are in place. If there was a chemical, biological, or radiological attack, the most important thing to remember is to minimise your exposure to these agents, then listen to radio broadcasts or watch your television for emergency services instructions.

It is not possible to give specific instructions for all chemical, biological, or radiological incidents, as what to do will depend on the agent used and how it has been released.

If there is a public alert about an incident, it is likely that you will be advised to stay inside, close all windows and doors, and turn off air conditioners. Alternatively, you may be told to evacuate the area. Is so, follow the advice of emergency services.

What to do if you need to shelter-in-place or evacuate

Shelter-in-place

If a terrorist incident occurs, a "shelter-in-place" direction given by the State Disaster Coordinator, the police, or emergency services in attendance. If your are advised to shelter-in-place, you should take the following protective measures:

• Go directly indoors and close all windows and doors;
• Turn off all air conditioners, ventilation fans or others sources of outside air;
• Remain inside until notified that it is safe to go outside;
• Stay tuned to local radio or television station to receive official advice;
• Limit the use of telephone so that emergency calls can get through. This is to prevent the telephone lines from being overloaded with non-emergency calls.

Evacuate

If you are directed to evacuate by the State Disaster Coordinator, the police, or emergency services in attendance, you should take the following protective measures:

• Pack only what you need most (for example, clothes, prescription medication, baby supplies, battery operated radio, cash, cheque book and credit cards;
• Lock your house, turn off all lights and household appliances;
• Monitor radio and television broadcasts for updates;
• Follow all instructions given by emergency services personnel;

An evacuation might last only a few hours, or it might last several days. Plan to take personal necessities for at least 72 hours.