But while the Geiger counter spots radiation easily, it can't determine which isotope is present, and therefore is unable to tell whether danger is at hand.

FORBES: Stopping Porta-Nukes

Customs agents carry basic Geiger-counter-like devices in their shirt pockets to measure radiation exposure.

FORBES: Stopping Porta-Nukes

So far the only commercially available drugs that have a biological or chemical anti-terror purpose are over-the-counter potassium iodide pills sold as a long-term radiation treatment, and Bayer 's (nyse: BAY - news - people ) Cipro, an antibiotic that can be used to prevent anthrax toxicity.

FORBES: Marketing Fear