The ‘Cold War’ ended in the early 1990s but terrorists all over the world threaten to use or do use radioactive materials against others. When sending soldiers or law enforcement officers into harm’s way, it is important to protect those that protect us by providing them with the radiation detection equipment they need to locate dirty bombs or other radioactive materials.
Most people don’t consider the possibility of US Customs and Border Patrol agents or law enforcement officers encountering radiation contamination. The truth is, however, that any shipment coming into the United States or crossing the country could contain some type of radiation not related to a terrorist threat. Since these agents spend their lives protecting us from the dangers of illegal drugs and weapons reaching the streets, shouldn’t they be protected even if the chance of encountering radiation is remote?
Many law enforcement agencies around the country turn to the CSECO Sensor Tech Personal Radiation Pager to help protect their personnel. It is a small, hand-held radiation detector that is ultra-sensitive. It weighs only 6 ounces and is 4.1″ x 2.4″ x 0.9″. It is compact and smaller than a cell phone. You can wear it or place it in a pocket. The radiation detector will detect gamma (or x-rays) at levels above a measured background, produces an audible sound and includes an LED display with seven segments. It is possible to become proficient in using the Radiation Pager in around an hour. The unit is also designed to be used on a daily basis and will operate in a wide range of temperatures – 13 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit – for more than two months with two AA batteries. This tool is simple to use and foolproof as a personal radiation detector.
The CSECO Buster K910B density meter is another tool that can be used to detect radiation. Although it is primarily used as a contraband detector, it is equipped with Rad-Aware radiation detection technology. This allows first responders to determine a safe perimeter if there is a radioactive leak or a dirty-bomb was detonated. The Buster has been in use for over 30 years, is safe and able to be used in nearly all possible environments.
Radiation cannot be detected using our senses. It cannot be seen, does not make a sound, you can’t taste it or smell it. If it weren’t for radiation detection equipment, you would not be aware of the threat. Handheld or portable devices are the only way means of detecting radiation when you need to scan objects on the move.
Where is radiation detection equipment needed? If materials are being shipped into the country radiation detection equipment is important. You would also find them in use at airports and borders where people enter the country. Having a reliable tool to detect radiation is a necessity, not only to detect radioactivity for law enforcement but also for the community as a whole.
While the chances are remote that US Customs and Border Patrol or other law enforcement agents will come into contact with radiation, it is important to provide the protection needed for those that protect the rest of us. CSECO will continue to provide the equipment, like the Sensor Tech Personal Radiation Pager and Buster K910B, which will keep these officers safe.