Part of a well-thought-out and all-inclusive CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) disaster preparedness plan is equipping your family members–especially children–with the tools and knowledge to survive. While having respiratory protection for yourself gives you tremendous resilience in multiple disaster situations, children must also have the know-how to make it through a major crisis.

MIRA Safety has prepared a comprehensive guide that examines CBRN threats, why they exist, and how to create an effective response plan.  This breakdown goes deeper than just gas masks. We provide essential tips for crafting a pragmatic CBRN emergency plan, including information on how to select the right gas mask for a child, age-appropriate communication strategies for children, and the steps needed to enhance your family preparedness kit, not just for peace of mind, but also for added resilience. 

What are CBRN Threats - A Comprehensive Guide

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear threats encompass a wide range of materials and agents that can cause serious harm, either through accidental release or deliberate use. 

Chemical Threats

Chemical threats are varied and can range from agricultural/industrial to military, and include incidents that are the result of accidents, neglect, or even terror-related. The sheer volume of chemicals with toxic and combustible characteristics used and needed in everyday life–from our homes to manufacturing–is also fraught with the possibility of accidental spillage or release through fire or negligence. 

• Industrial Chemicals:  Leaks from storage tanks, transportation accidents (derailments), or explosions at industrial facilities can release hazardous chemicals like chlorine gas (respiratory failure), ammonia (burning of eyes, throat, and lungs), or benzene (carcinogen) into the environment.

• Everyday Chemicals: The improper storage or disposal of household cleaners, bleach, or pesticides can lead to accidental poisoning–especially for children.  Exposure or ingestion of these off-the-shelf items can cause countless health issues, including skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and even life-threatening poisoning.

Some of the most lethal incidents on record include:

Ohio Train Derailment Chemical Spill (2023): A train derailment carrying hazardous materials resulted in a major fire and the controlled release of several toxic chemicals, including vinyl chloride, to prevent a catastrophic explosion. The full extent of health repercussions on nearby residents is still unknown.

Lubrizol Chemical Plant (2019): A major industrial fire occurred at a Lubrizol chemical plant in Rouen, France, on September 26, 2019. This fire burned over 5,250 tonnes of chemicals, including oil, fuel additives, and other products, including dispersants, anti-freeze, and anti-friction additives.

Bhopal Gas Leak, India (1984): This disaster is the worst industrial accident in history. A leak of methyl isocyanate (MIC), a highly toxic gas, from a Union Carbide India Limited plant in Bhopal exposed hundreds of thousands of people. Estimates suggest between 3,700 and 16,000 immediate deaths, with many more suffering long-term health problems like respiratory illnesses and birth defects. 

Chemical accidents are among the most common CBRN threats. Due to the nature of chemicals and their reactions when released into the environment, the associated health threats to those who come in contact with them are vast. Even trace amounts of certain chemicals can have detrimental health effects.  If you live near a chemical treatment plant or an industrial zone, large quantities of chemicals are stored and used, so it's wise to have the right equipment in case something happens.

Beyond accidental releases, chemical threats can also be deliberate. Chemical warfare agents, designed to cause mass casualties through poisoning, blistering, or choking, are a terrifying prospect.

• Chemical Warfare Agents: International treaties, such as the Chemical Weapons Convention, aim to limit the production and stockpiling of chemical munitions and agents. In the Middle East, government forces have used chemical weapons in conflicts for over 60 years: Egypt used mustard gas against Yemeni tribesmen in the 1960s; Saddam Hussein’s Iraq used chemical weapons against the Iranians in the 8-year war fought between the two nations, and later against the Kurds; and the Syrian regime used chlorine, sarin, and sulfur mustard against anti-government forces in the civil war. 

The risk that rogue actors and terrorist organizations could acquire nerve agents (muscle paralysis), blister agents (severe burns), or blood agents (internal suffocation) remains an ever-present concern.

Biological Threats

Biological threats encompass a range of harmful organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and toxins, that can cause disease and death in humans, animals, and plants. These threats can arise naturally through outbreaks or be deliberately used in bioterrorism attacks.

Types of Biological Threats:

• Bacteria: These single-celled organisms can cause numerous illnesses, ranging from mild food poisoning to life-threatening diseases like anthrax.
• Viruses: Microscopic entities that can invade and hijack host cells to replicate, leading to illnesses like influenza, Ebola, and COVID-19.
• Toxins: Natural–or man-made–poisons produced by living organisms that can cause serious health problems like ricin (derived from castor beans).

Sources of Biological Threats:

There are generally only two types of biological threats, with the latter being extremely rare:

• Natural Outbreaks occur when a pathogen (disease-causing organism) jumps from animals to humans, spreads through a population, or re-emerges due to environmental changes.
• Bioterrorism is the deliberate release of biological agents with the intent to cause harm or fear.

Examples of Biological Threats:

As many of us vividly remember the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the threat of biological contamination remains a risk. When such an event occurs, it will likely be difficult to source a quality respirator, and protective equipment might become scarce due to stockpiling.

Biological threats can severely disrupt cities, countries, and even the world. Some of the most recent incidents include:

• COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-Present): This ongoing pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is a stark reminder of the global impact of biological threats.
• Anthrax Attacks (2001): The use of anthrax spores sent through the mail in the United States highlighted the potential for bioterrorism.
• Ebola Outbreaks: Several outbreaks of the Ebola virus in Africa have caused significant mortality and highlighted the need for rapid response efforts.

Radiological 

Radiological threats encompass the dangers associated with exposure to ionizing radiation.  This invisible form of energy can damage living cells and cause serious health problems, including radiation sickness and an increased risk of cancer.  Radiological threats can arise from accidents, deliberate attacks, and the misuse of radioactive materials.

Types of Radiological Threats:

• Dirty Bombs: Conventional explosives are used to disperse radioactive material over a wide area, contaminating the environment and exposing people to radiation.
• Accidents: Leaks from nuclear power plants or research facilities can release radioactive materials into the environment. 
• Lost or Stolen Radioactive Sources: These sources, used in medicine, industry, or research, can pose a threat if not properly secured.

Effects of Radiological Threats:

Image courtesy of Envato

High levels of radiation exposure can cause radiation sickness, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and organ damage. Acute exposure can be fatal. Long-term health damage includes an increased risk of cancer, birth defects, and genetic mutations. Unlike the other threats listed, radiation can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, contaminating water, soil, and food sources.

Examples of Radiological Threats:

While radiological threats are the rarest form of a CBRN threat, they have tragically occurred. When such an event happens, the contamination and consequences are severe, as irradiated particles could spread through the air, water, and soil.

• Chernobyl Disaster (1986): A reactor explosion at the No. 4 nuclear power plant in Chernobyl, near the town of Pripyat, Ukraine, in the former Soviet Union, resulted in the worst nuclear accident in history, causing widespread radioactive contamination.
• Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster (2011): An earthquake and tsunami triggered a series of meltdowns at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan, causing radioactive materials to be released into the environment.
• Goiânia Accident (1987): A scavenged Cesium-137 source in Goiânia, Brazil, led to several deaths and widespread radiation sickness due to improper handling.

Nuclear Threats

Nuclear threats differ from radiological threats in their immense destructive power.  Nuclear detonation (fission) unleashes a devastating combination of dangerous results: a massive explosion causing widespread blast damage, intense heat generating severe burns, and the release of large amounts of radiation.  

Surviving a direct nuclear attack in the immediate aftermath depends heavily on factors like proximity to the blast, available shelter, and warning time (if any). The strategies for surviving in the aftermath of a nuclear war are highly speculative, and for our preparedness purposes, we'll focus on the more common radiological threats and mitigation strategies.

How to Integrate CBRN Threat Preparedness for Your Family

As outlined in the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment guide by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, there are five key goals to strive for when dealing with any CBRN threat:

1. Prevention: Focuses on stopping imminent, threatened, or actual acts of terrorism.
2. Protection: Aims to safeguard citizens, residents, visitors, and assets from major threats and hazards, ensuring a thriving society.
3. Mitigation: Aims to reduce future disaster impact, minimizing loss of life and property.
4. Response: Prioritizes a swift response to save lives, protect property and the environment, and meet essential human needs after an incident.
5. Recovery: Emphasizes a timely restoration, strengthening, and revitalization of infrastructure, housing, and a sustainable economy. Additionally, it focuses on restoring the health, social, cultural, historic, and environmental fabric of affected communities.

Step 1 of creating a CBRN Plan - Identify Threats and Hazards of Concern.

Knowing the probabilities of a CBRN occurrence is important when budgeting for the resources that need to be prepared. Hazard maps can help you identify potential threats in your area, such as railways, chemical plants, or nuclear reactors. Based on this preliminary search, you can familiarize yourself with warning signs and symptoms associated with each type of CBRN incident.

By taking a look at the examples from Table 1 provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, we can see how some of the most common CBRN threats are listed into different categories:

An important takeaway from industrial accidents, train derailments, and radiological or chemical events is that even if they don't occur in your exact area or state they can spread downwind or downriver, and become regional rather than localized events.

Step 2 - Give Threats and Hazards Context 

Understanding the impact of a CBRN incident–including  the immediate and long-term effectsis critical. For example, industrial accidents could require the government to implement far-reaching evacuation and relocation protocols. An epidemic might lead to a societal breakdown, necessitating an entirely different survival and preparedness approach.

You might also have to consider how a large chemical incident could overwhelm emergency services, and you will have to factor in the capability of planning and administering first aid to injured family members.

CBRN events are complex, so we have created a visual table based on FEMA and Homeland Security sources to help you better understand how these threats might impact you, your family, and your community.

Disclaimer: The specific impacts of a threat or hazard will depend on various factors, such as the severity of the event, your location, and your level of preparedness.

Step 3 - Know What to Look Out For, and Stay Vigilant!

A rapid response time is key to surviving a CBRN event—every second counts. Knowing what to look out for can be the difference between getting you and your family out of harm's way and becoming a victim and a statistic.

This FEMA document outlines various indicators that might suggest a chemical spill or biological attack but emphasizes the importance of awareness due to the possibility of some agents being imperceptible. 

Here's a breakdown based on the document:

Warning Signs of Chemical Spills:

• Strong odors (fruity, flowery, sharp/pungent, garlic/horseradish, bitter almonds)
• Physical symptoms in exposed individuals (watery blisters, wheezing, rashes)
• Dead animals, birds, fish (especially in unusual numbers)
• Lack of insect activity
• Discolored or withered vegetation
• Unusual liquids or oily films on surfaces
• Low-lying fog or clouds

Symptoms of  Chemical Poisoning

• Symptoms may appear rapidly (minutes to hours)
• Casualties might follow a pattern linked to the dissemination method (e.g., higher rates outdoors if the agent spread through air)

• Individuals who come into contact with the substance commonly experience respiratory issues (if the delivery was through the surrounding air) or unexplained skin issues like blisters.

Biological Attacks:

No Warning Properties - Biological agents are generally invisible.

Symptoms:

• Delayed onset (days to weeks) makes detection difficult.
• Symptoms can be similar to common illnesses (fever, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues).

Tip: First responders must check with local hospitals for a potential CBRN incident, looking for a cluster of casualties with similar symptoms.

Radiological or Nuclear Threats:

Unlike biological threats, radiological and nuclear incidents can present with some warning signs. Early detection and a quick response time are critical for minimizing harm.

Warning Signs of a Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD) or "Dirty Bomb":

• Sudden and unexplained rise in radiation levels detected by monitoring stations.
• A loud explosion followed by the presence of dust or debris.
• Emergency responders in hazmat suits.

Signs of Potential Exposure to Radiation:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (within a few hours of exposure to high radiation levels).
• The onset of quick and unexplained weakness or fatigue.
• Loss of hair (days to weeks after exposure).

Equipping Yourself and Children with MIRA Safety CBRN Kits

MIRA Safety specializes in CBRN kits that provide a critical first line of defense in such emergencies: gas masks that create a physical barrier and prevent harmful contaminants from entering the respiratory system and specialized CBRN filters that remove hazardous particles, gases, and vapors from the inhaled air.

The kits include potassium iodide tablets that help protect the thyroid gland from the harmful effects of radioactive iodine (a potential threat in nuclear emergencies).

CBRN kits for both adults and children:

MIRA Safety Military Gas Mask & Nuclear Survival Kit for Adults

MIRA Safety Military Gas Mask & Nuclear Survival Kit

This comprehensive kit equips you with everything you need for immediate CBRN protection and includes the following:

• CM-6M Military Grade Gas Mask: Offers a secure fit and 20-year shelf life.
• NBC-77 SOF CBRN Filter: Protects against radioactive particles, biological agents, and chemical toxins.
• Potassium Iodide Tablets: Helps prevent thyroid damage from radiation exposure.
• Durable Leg Mount Pouch: Keeps your kit readily accessible.

Best CBRN Gas Mask Kits for Children

MIRA Safety Kids Gas Mask Nuclear Survival Kit

This child-sized kit provides essential protection for your little ones:

• MD-1 Children's Gas Mask: Designed for comfort and a secure fit on smaller faces.
• VK-450 Filter: Offers CBRN protection specifically sized for the child's mask.
• Potassium Iodide Tablets (reduced dosage): Ensures proper protection for children.
• Carrying Pouch: This makes it easy for your child to carry their mask.

Please note that our MD-1 Children’s Gas Mask is available in two sizes:

• Medium: Children 2 to 6 years old
• Large: Kids 6 to 12 years old

The NBC-77 SOF 40mm gas mask filter canister is specially designed to protect air passages against all known CBRN agents. Remember that a child is unlikely to apply a gas mask properly by themselves. They  will need adult assistance. It is advised to test the fit of the mask at least once a year to ensure that it is comfortable and provides a seal before use.

CM-3M CBRN Child Escape Respirator (Infant Gas Mask with a PAPR)

We also offer the CM-3M CBRN Child Escape Respirator. It is specifically designed for younger children to protect against CBRN threats. 

Regular gas masks can be difficult for young children to wear for extended periods because they require the user to suck air through filters, creating breathing resistance. 

Our CM-3M CRBN respirator utilizes a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) to address this concern by supplying a constant, filtered airflow with a fan, making breathing easier and less tiring for children.

Here is a brief description of the CM-3M CBRN Chil Escape Respirator:

• Comes as a complete system including an expandable mask, blower unit, tubing, back/waist carrier, integrated water bottle, and Israeli NBC Filter.

• Suitable for children as young as two years of age and including small teens.

• Uses four standard CR123A batteries to power the blower with a runtime of up to 15 hours of continuous use.

• An integrated hydration system allows for safe drinking, even in dangerous environments.

While having the right CBRN equipment is undoubtedly important, knowing how to deploy respiratory protection in times of emergency is critical. While it's easy enough for adults to learn how to safely put on a gas mask to ensure a proper fit and seal, the drill is harder for children. 

Educating children on disaster planning is challenging and requires a special approach that can vary drastically based on age and comprehension level. If you have children under 

Teaching Kids About Decontamination & Disaster Planning

We have assembled a guide to help teach and train children how to prepare for disasters when they strike.

Younger children (Age 5 and Below):

• Use storytelling to introduce the concept and meaning of emergencies. Create scenarios where familiar characters (favorite superheroes or cartoon animals) encounter situations requiring them to follow safety measures.
• Interactive games and role-playing can help children learn essential steps like putting on a mask (use a practice mask) or following evacuation routes (practice walking to a designated safe spot in your house).
• Visual aids like infographics or brightly colored drawings can communicate basic safety procedures effectively. Consider creating an illustrated "disaster preparedness chart"  representing key steps.
• Educational cartoons or short animated videos can introduce the concept of emergencies in an engaging and non-threatening way.
• Arts and crafts activities can be a fun way to reinforce concepts. Have your child decorate their backpack (designated "emergency go-bag") or create a picture of their family in their safe place.
• Simple songs or rhymes can be a catchy way to teach important safety messages (this is how they used to teach kids in schools during the height of the Cold War to duck and cover).

Note: Be careful when talking to your about topics involving disasters, as when done inappropriately, they can introduce a life-long fear or anxiety. The goal is that they learn the basics, such as taking cover during natural disasters or finding adults to guide them through an emergency.

Older children (Age 6 and Above):

When making decisions about disaster preparedness plans for this age range, involve your older children in the process, as this fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, making them more likely to remember and follow the plan.

Here are some ways you can communicate with your children on this topic:

• Use age-appropriate language and avoid overwhelming them with technical details.
• Break down complex concepts into smaller, more manageable pieces of information.

• Focus on practicality and a sense of security - Explain the purpose of decontamination procedures and how they help remove harmful substances.
• Discuss the importance of having a designated "safe place" and practicing evacuation drills.
• Involve them in the planning process. Let them help create a family communication plan (decide on a meeting spot if separated) or brainstorm ideas for stocking their emergency backpack.

Invoke real-life examples and discuss past natural disasters or emergencies in an informative and not overly scary way. 

For example, if a child has already seen what it is like to go through a major storm or earthquake, this memory can be referenced when explaining how to respond to an incident properly. 

There are great online resources that offer interactive games and ways for children to learn about disaster preparedness that you can utilize in conjunction with other methods.

Note: Open communication is key! Acknowledge their concerns, fears, and even skepticism about disasters. Let them know that asking questions and expressing their fears and feelings is okay.

Essential Items for a Child's Bug-Out Bag

Once you've established clear emergency procedures with your family, it's time to create a child-sized bug-out bag (or "go bag"). As adults, when packing emergency kits, we often omit some items that would be dearly needed for kids during an emergency.

Here are some considerations to include:

• Water: Include a brightly colored, spill-proof water bottle that holds at least 16 ounces of water. Mark it with your child's name.
• Food: Pack non-perishable, easy-to-eat snacks your child enjoys. Consider granola bars, dried fruit, energy bars, or kid-friendly trail mix (be mindful of allergies).
• Comfort Item: A favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or small toy can provide comfort and security during a stressful situation.
• Change of Clothes: Pack a complete change of climate-appropriate clothes, including socks and underwear.
• Rain Gear: A lightweight poncho or rain jacket to keep your child dry in unexpected downpours.
• First-Aid Kit: Assemble a small, child-sized first-aid kit with basic bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medications your child may need.
• Flashlight: A small, child-sized flashlight with extra batteries will empower your child and help them feel secure in the dark.
• Whistle: A whistle can be a lifesaver if your child gets separated from you and needs to signal for help.
• Identification: Include a waterproof ID card with your child's name, emergency contact information for the parents, and any medical conditions that might need attention.

Avoid including toys and clothing items that are heavy, bulky, or redundant, as they can slow you down unnecessarily, and focus on the bare minimum for comfort and safety.

Additional Considerations and Age-Specific Needs:

• Infants and Toddlers: Include extra diapers, wipes, formula (if applicable), bottles, and rash cream. Pack a pacifier or teething toy for comfort.
• Older Children: Pack a small activity book, crayons, or a deck of cards to keep them occupied during long waits.
• Personalization:  Let your child choose a backpack they like and personalize it with their name or favorite stickers. This will encourage them to take ownership of their bug-out bag.

Important: Additional items, such as specific medications that your child might need, should be stockpiled so that supplies can last (such as an EpiPen or prescription medication) for long durations.

Engaging Your Child in Preparedness:

Your kids must also know how to use and care for their emergency kits. A good practice is to create a simple visual checklist with pictures or drawings representing each item in their bag. This will help them ensure everything is packed and accounted for.

Tip: Exploration and Practice - allow your child to explore the items in their bug-out bag and practice putting on rain gear or using the flashlight.

Additional Tips for Family Preparedness

A strong communication plan (involving all family members) is crucial for ensuring your family's safety and peace of mind during an emergency. Here are some key elements to consider following recommendations from emergency response guidelines:

• Establish Meeting Spots: Decide on designated meeting locations if you are separated during an emergency. Choose a familiar location within your neighborhood that's easy to reach on foot if your home becomes inaccessible.
• Secondary Meeting Spot: Identify a secondary meeting location outside your neighborhood should your local area be severely affected. Consider a community center or a landmark like a specific park entrance.
• Plan for Local Resources: Research and include information about local emergency shelters, evacuation routes, and disaster relief resources available in your area.
• Supplies and Kits: Indicate the location of your family's emergency preparedness kits, including a first-aid kit, bug-out bags, and any household supplies you may need to gather quickly.
• Communication Devices: Determine your preferred method of communication during an emergency. Cell phones may not always be reliable, so consider including a battery-powered radio or a NOAA weather radio in your plan.
• Gather Information: Collect important contact details and put them in a central location that can be easily accessible to all family members. 
• Local emergency numbers: Police, fire department, ambulance.
• Out-of-town contact: A designated family member or friend who lives outside your immediate area. This person can serve as a central point of contact if family members are separated and unable to communicate locally.
• Doctors' contact information: Access to your pediatrician or other essential healthcare providers' contact details can be critical in an emergency.

Practice, Practice, and More Practice! 

Don't just create a plan, practice it! Conduct regular family drills to familiarize everyone with the procedures. This will help ensure a smooth response during a real emergency.

CBRN Protection to Keep Your Pets Safe 

MIRA Safety understands that pets are cherished family members, and we offer a special First Breed Collapsible CBRN Animal Ark, also known as a "dog gas mask," designed to ensure comprehensive CBRN protection for several household pets.

A dog can serve as an early warning system and augment your property security capabilities during civil unrest and societal breakdown. This is why they need to have a haven during a CBRN threat. MIRA Safety has developed an innovative solution for pet protection: the First Breed Collapsible CBRN Animal Ark /Dog Gas Mask designed to ensure comprehensive CBRN protection for your pets.

The First Breed Collapsible CBRN Animal Ark is a positive pressure system that creates a safe haven for your furry (or feathery or scaled) friend. It works with a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) to provide a constant stream of filtered air inside the spacious interior. 

This protects your pet from exposure to hazardous chemical and biological agents, radioactive particles, and even smoke inhalation.

Key features of the MIRA Safety First Breed Collapsible CBRN Animal Ark:

• Durable and leak-proof: The Ark is constructed with rugged laminate-230 material and reinforced seams, offering over 6 hours of resistance to blister agents.
• Spacious and comfortable: The Ark provides ample space (14 cubic feet) for your pet to move around and includes room for food, water, and toys. The fully transparent design allows you to monitor your pet's well-being.
• Easy to transport: The Ark folds flat for convenient storage and can be mounted on a stroller, wagon, sled, or even a pickup truck bed for easy transport during an evacuation.
• Versatile protection: While sized for pets up to 22 lbs, the Ark can accommodate a variety of small animals, from dogs and cats to any other companion.

Stockpiling Tips for Children and Pets

Like any emergency, stockpile food, water, and life-saving medicine. But the checklist for a CBRN event goes well beyond that:

• Stockpile as many hygiene and sanitation products as possible, but start with supplies that will last a minimum of 1 week. 
• Remember that most baby formula has a shelf-life of approximately one month once the container has been opened.
• Consider how you will preserve food and source water should the power grid go down.

• Keep copies of important documents like birth certificates, passports, immunization records, and insurance information in a waterproof container within their bug-out bag.
• Remember that your pets also require nutrition, especially if they perform high-intensity activities like patrolling your property. Look for pet food that has a high shelf-life.

Tip: When stockpiling food, water, and medications (both human and pet), practice a rotation system to ensure freshness. Regularly check expiration dates and replace items as needed.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has helped you learn something new about preparing your children for CRBN threats and SHTF scenarios. Remember to tailor your prepping approach to your family's specific needs and the ages of your children. Everyone’s situation, though, is different. 

Be careful not to scare your children–this topic can be scary. The goal is to instill confidence and empowerment and do so in a fun way. Remember that children cannot comprehend threats and the gravity of situations in the way an adult can.