Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 9
Protective
Equipment
MUCH OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED in this topic deals with
prevention. The authors strongly believe in the premise that
appropriate security protocols will allow most people to avoid becoming
the victims of terrorism or criminal acts. Awareness, foreknowledge, and
proper planning are central to achieving the goal of increasing the level
of personal safety. However, since no security measures are completely
foolproof, there is also a need to be well prepared in the event of attack.
Body armor, vehicle armor, and gas masks are only some of the equipment
that can dramatically increase your chances of surviving an attack.
BODY ARMOR
The production of bullet- and explosive-resistant products is a multibillion-
dollar industry. Police agencies and military organizations have been using
bullet-resistant technology for over 100 years. In fact, the concept of per-
sonal protective armor is thousands of years old. Since early man began
using stones and clubs in combat, there has been a need to protect against
the effect of such weapons. During various eras in human history, armor
has undergone many evolutions. Early man used animal skins. Later humans
fashioned shields out of wood and made bronze breastplates and suits of
armor. Today the materials used are called Kevlar, Twaron, Spectra-shield,
Zylon, and boron carbide. These products are our modern equivalents to
suits of armor and armored chariots.
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