Recent events around the world are a reminder of the terrorist threat we face and the need to always be vigilant.
While firearms and weapons attacks remain very rare, the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) has released guidance on what people should do if they get caught in a terror attack at work or in a public place.
The short public information film called Stay Safe: Firearms and Weapons Attack urges people to “escape if you can”, rather than lying down, or to barricade themselves in a safe place with phones on silent. It also provides advice on the information armed response officers may need.
You can view the film here.
What to do during an attack: RUN, HIDE, TELL
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 can’t 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
– Lock / barricade yourself in
– Move away from the door
TELL
– Call 999 – What do the police need to know?
– 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
Source: National Counter Terrorism Security Office
This is an extremely powerful resource to assist with and support your own policies and procedures. If you have any further questions or wish to discuss this or any other safeguarding issues, please contact our Safeguarding Officers on 0161 200 1673 or email safeguarding@theapprenticeacademy.co.uk
To find out more about the National Counter Terrorism Security Office please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/national-counter-terrorism-security-office