While much of the public's fear concerning radiation is exaggerated, we must be prepared for some quite real threats, whether intentional or accidental. Radiation Safety: Protection and Management for Homeland Security and Emergency Response provides a comprehensive safety guide on radiation protection. With a focus on homeland security but with advice applicable to a wide range of incidents (industrial and medical accidents, releases from fixed nuclear sources, and others), this up-to-date reference provides a detailed understanding of how to prevent and respond to a radiological event caused by accident or terrorism.

Author Larry Burchfield introduces the reader to the basics of radiation along with the nature of terrorism and nuclear terror, then homes in on practical instructions for dealing with a radiological event. He discusses procedures and techniques for managing a radiological incident not only from a first responder/emergency worker's point of view, but also from that of health care facilities and medical staff, including:

• Essential strategies and guidance for protecting ports

• How first responders and emergency workers should prepare for incidents

• How to detect radioactive materials being smuggled into the country by monitoring critical points in the supply chain, from entry at a port to transfer of materials to rail or truck

• The latest nuclear detection devices that can be deployed

• What to do if radioactive material is found

• The procedures laid out by FEMA in the National Incident Management System

Covering everything from action plans to medical treatment to post-event cleanup and decontamination, Radiation Safety: Protection and Management for Homeland Security and Emergency Response is required reading for everyone involved in homeland security and safety response.