Date and Time
May 20, 2002

Availability
Open to the public
No RSVP required

Participant
Michael M. May (moderator) - Stanford University

In the wake of the September 11, 2001, attacks, many members of the media and the public became aware that further acts of terrorism against U.S. targets were possible, and that such attacks could involve chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons. Although accurate basic information about the effects of nuclear and radiological weapons is available, mainly through specialized sources, it is not widespread, and it can be difficult to separate from misinformation about the sources, characteristics, and effects of radioactivity. In short, there was a clear appetite for more and better information. At the same time, concerns exist on the part of scientists and first responders about how best to meet the public's need for information about these types of threats in order to avert panic and save lives--without simultaneously helping terrorist groups to stage more effective attacks.

This workshop is a step toward meeting these needs and concerns, bringing together local representatives of the media (newspaper, radio, and television); local first responders, including local representatives of federal and state agencies; scientists; and risk analysts for an informal, daylong meeting.