How To Stay Safe In A Terrorist Attack

The government released a video in the wake of terrorist attacks across the world 18 months ago to advise people about the steps they can take to keep themselves safe.

The UK threat level for international terrorism is currently set as 'critical', meaning an attack is imminent.

The film advises those who get caught up in an incident to ‘run, hide and tell’ where possible until the police arrive on the scene - guidance which can be applied to any place.

It says that people are to 'run' if they can, 'hide' if they can't and then 'tell' the police what’s happening, when possible, so they can get help there to stop the threat. 

The NaCTSO added that the intention of the film is not to unnecessarily scare the public but to ensure that they know what steps to take in the unlikely event of being involved in a firearms or weapons attack. 

The advice is based on case studies and real-life testimony from people who have survived attacks.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, speaking on behalf of National Counter Terrorism policing at the end of 2015 said:

"The police service is working tirelessly to confront the terrorist threat we all face. To do this we need the help of the public. 

"We need them to be alert, but not alarmed. We need them to be vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour or activity to the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or in an emergency dial 999."

"We are releasing this film which we hope will provide practical steps to take in the extremely rare event of a terrorist attack.

"Communities defeat terrorism, which is why we must maintain the strong relationship between the public and police. We depend on information from the public, who can be our eyes and ears, in our efforts to keep us all safe. We must also give information to the public to help them stay safe."

Find out more here and here.