Chemical and biological weapons may be banned but that has not stopped them being used in recent conflicts and for journalists reporting on the war in Ukraine knowing how to react if an attack happens, is crucial.
Thomson Foundation has created a unique easy to access course for local journalists available via the encrypted messaging service Telegram with the help of chemical and biological weapons expert Hamish de Bretton-Gordon.
Reacting to a chemical attack' is designed to take just 15 minutes or less on a smartphone. The course will guide users on the types of chemical and biological weapons that have been used in recent years and how to recognise them. Typical symptoms are listed alongside what to do in the event of a chemical attack.
The course is designed for local journalists in particular as they may not have access to the safety experts and kit (such as gas masks) that are available to staff working for large international news organisations.
The expert advice from Colonel de Bretton-Gordon who is a former commander of NATO's Rapid Reaction CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) Battalion, includes a six-point guide to staying safe.
We've adapted our approach to the ever-changing demands of a war zone.
Catherine Mackie, editorial associate, Thomson Foundation
Thomson Foundation editorial associate, Catherine Mackie who worked on the course, said being able to deliver it via Telegram was a game-changer. We've adapted our approach to the ever-changing demands of a war zone. Getting clear, concise advice into the hands of journalists via their smartphones was the priority and thankfully technology has allowed us to do that.
The course is available only on smartphones via Telegram. It is available in both Ukrainian and English.
Ukrainian version: In the Telegram app, search: TFT01uk_bot
Or phone click: t.me/TFT01uk_bot (Telegram account required)
English version: In the Telegram app, search: TFT01en_bot
Or phone click: t.me/TFT01en_bot (Telegram account required)
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Telegram: TFT01uk_bot : t.me/TFT01uk_bot ( Telegram)
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Chemical and biological weapons may be banned but that has not stopped them being used in recent conflicts and for journalists reporting on the war in Ukraine knowing how to react if an attack happens, is crucial.
