X-Message-Number: 17674
From: "George Smith" <>
References: <>
Subject: Bio war self defense suggestion.
Date: Sun, 30 Sep 2001 12:04:03 -0700

Dani Kollin in CryoNet #17663 mentioned the Israeli concept of creating a
"safe room" though use of plastic sheeting and duct tape.  Think of this as
being a poor man's biological warfare fallout shelter.

One suggested addition from some experts I have spoken to regarding a "safe
room" is to obtain a portable HEPA air filtration unit (commonly sold at
Sears and other such stores for between $50 to $150).  These are often used
by people to filter out allergens in their bedrooms.

Duct tape vinyl hose (as used for clothes dryers) over the exhaust port.
Position the filtration unit OUTSIDE the "safe room" and run the hose INTO
the "safe room" through a hole in the door.

With this set up as long as there is electricity you will have filtered air
creating positive air pressure inside your "safe room" to keep anthrax
spores from entering.  When you are ready to leave remember that the filter
is contaminated.

There are additional steps I consider important but an old Israeli trick was
to use reversible vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters for the same purpose.
By the way HEPA filters and gas masks will do nothing to protect against
chemical nerve gas and is strictly used against most biological agents.

By the way, the Israeli civilian gas mask is a very good choice for leaving
a contaminated area when you are prepared to exit your "safe room."  There
are many other points to be made here (protective clothing, food, water,
radio, etc.) but I merely wanted to outline the value of a positive pressure
"safe room."

It is unlikely that biologicals or chemicals will ever be widely used but
being prepared is relatively inexpensive and could make a vital difference
later.  The Boy Scouts said it all with their motto, "Be Prepared."

What does this have to do with cryonics?  I see it just as being part of a
spectrum of sensible preparations to get through these primitive times to a
better future where death itself will have died.

Just my opinion,

George Smith

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