It Takes a Community to Stop Drug and Human Trafficking

The authors in this June edition of the Domestic Preparedness Journal share valuable information about the threats and hazards related to drug and human trafficking. Better situational awareness throughout the community can help combat potentially nefarious activities before they have dire consequences.

Jane Doe – Responding to Vulnerable Patients

Despite the prevalence of first responders encountering human trafficking victims, they are not always aware of the signs or proper handling of the situation to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of victims. One paramedic shares his experience with an encounter that provided him lessons to share.
woman sitting in dark room by window

From Shadows to Light: Addressing the Aftermath of Human Trafficking

The deadly opioid epidemic in the United States does not stop at overdoses. It also poses life-threatening exposure to first responders who arrive on scene. Learn about the new ways scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory are expanding detection strategies and technologies to keep these responders safe.
hands tied with rope in dark

Invisible Chains: Human Trafficking, Drug Abuse, and Support

Despite the physical force that is often portrayed in movies, human traffickers more often lure their victims using psychological tactics. As a result, the victims can become dependent on the traffickers and the substances they supply. Trauma-informed care and advocacy are actions first responders, legislators, and others can take to support survivors within their communities.
Two scientists in yellow PPE prepare samples under scientific hood

Fentanyl Hazards and Detection

The deadly opioid epidemic in the United States does not stop at overdoses. It also poses life-threatening exposure to first responders who arrive on scene. Learn about the new ways scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory are expanding detection strategies and technologies to keep these responders safe.
Two scientists in blue PPE gown and yellow gloves crouched while taking samples

A Modern Take on an Age-Old Biological Weapon

Reports about North Korea launching balloons filled with fecal matter and propaganda into South Korean territory were intriguing. However, this incident raises public health concerns and the question of whether fecal matter could be utilized in modern times as an effective biological weapon.
mexican border, fence on left with woodsy mountain ahead

The Nexus Between Drug and Human Trafficking

Transnational criminal organizations are using their experience in drug trafficking to utilize routes and operating procedures to take advantage of other criminal opportunities, such as human trafficking.
two young children at desk writing with pencil in right hand

A Plan to Protect the Youngest Children

Most educational and training programs for protecting schools against targeted violence, drugs, and human trafficking do not include the youngest students – preschoolers. However, one program in Florida that is free to the schools is an example of how other states can close this preparedness gap.
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