With the saddening news of a terror-related attack in Reading this week claiming the lives of John Furlong, David Wails and Joe Ritchie-Bennett, we feel it imperative to highlight the need for counter terrorism actions.
Attacks in the UK and abroad remind us all of the terrorist threat we face. Police and security agencies are working tirelessly to protect the public, but it is also important that communities remain vigilant and aware of how to protect themselves if the need arises.
National Counter Terrorism policing is providing advice to the public on the steps they can take to keep themselves safe in the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack.
RUN
Escape if you can
Consider the safest options
Is there a safe route? RUN if not HIDE
Can you get there without exposing yourself to greater danger?
Insist others leave with you
Leave belongings behind
HIDE
If you cannot RUN, HIDE
Find cover from gunfire
If you can see the attacker, they may be able to see you
Cover from view does not mean you are safe, bullets go through glass, brick, wood and metal
Find cover from gunfire e.g. substantial brickwork / heavy reinforced walls
Be aware of your exits
Try not to get trapped
Be quiet, silence your phone and turn off vibrate
Lock / barricade yourself in
Move away from the door
TELL
Call 999 – What do the police need to know? If you cannot speak or make a noise listen to the instructions given to you by the call taker
Location – Where are the suspects?
Direction – Where did you last see the suspects?
Descriptions – Describe the attacker, numbers, features, clothing, weapons etc.
Further information – Casualties, type of injury, building information, entrances, exits, hostages etc.
Stop other people entering the building if it is safe to do so
ARMED POLICE RESPONSE
Follow officers instructions
Remain calm
Can you move to a safer area?
Avoid sudden movements that may be considered a threat
Keep your hands in view
OFFICERS MAY
Point guns at you
Treat you firmly
Question you
Be unable to distinguish you from the attacker
Officers will evacuate you when it is safe to do so
You must STAY SAFE
What are your plans if there were an incident?
What are the local plans? e.g. personal emergency evacuation plan
All H&A Protection staff are encouraged to conduct the ACT online e-learning Counter Terrorism training available. Please contact office@haprotectionservices.co.uk for our company log-in details.
