Your chances of ever being caught in a terrorist attack are negligible, but these ten rules can help in any emergency.
The frequency and severity of multi-method terrorist attacks, such as those witnessed in Paris on November 13, are on the rise, posing a significant challenge to authorities tasked with protecting residents. In light of these developments, it is crucial to consider how we can safeguard ourselves.
While terrorism remains relatively uncommon compared to other forms of crime, the associated risks are steadily increasing. Furthermore, the emergence of "new terrorism," characterized by religious motivations and networked structures, has made acts of terrorism more impactful than other criminal activities. Globalization has also played a role in widening our exposure to such threats, given factors like open borders, increased travel convenience, urbanization, the proliferation of technology and ideologies, and the spread of malevolent skills. As a result, it is essential for all individuals to contemplate sensible precautions that are applicable in any emergency situation. In considering exposure to terrorist threats, it is important to recognize that the average person is unlikely to be personally targeted by terrorists or to coincide with a terrorist target. However, if concerns about exposure persist, it would be prudent to avoid poorly protected, crowded locations with political, economic, or religious significance. New terrorists often aim to maximize casualties at high-profile sites, instilling fear in the places where people feel most secure. Conversely, well-protected sites such as parliaments, financial institutions, international sporting events, and major concert halls are less likely to be targeted by terrorists. This has led terrorists to adapt their tactics by focusing on sites of moderate value, which are less fortified but can accommodate hundreds of people and hold some local political or economic importance. Examples of such sites include local judicial buildings, town halls, schools, theaters, and shopping and dining centers. Minimizing time spent in significant locations can help reduce exposure, similar to how one might minimize the risk of road traffic accidents by spending less time on the roads.
Exits.
As you enter crowded spaces, it's crucial to immediately locate the nearest, quickest, and widest non-electrical exit. Identifying these exits upon entering will eliminate the need to search for them during an emergency. Avoid using the elevator or escalator as they can become chokepoints and may lose electrical power. Opt for fixed steps instead. When choosing stairs, prioritize the building's main staircase over narrower and more conveniently located stairways.
Practice.
When regularly visiting a location, it's crucial to practice using the safest entry and exit points. Familiarize yourself with these routes to ensure you can escape quickly and safely if necessary. In the event of an emergency, avoid being drawn back to the entry point or following the crowd. Stick to your initial assessment of the safest exit, unless a threat obstructs your path.
Act Decisively.
In the event of a threat, it is imperative to immediately flee without contemplating any other course of action. Simply react without hesitation, without dwelling on the situation. Some individuals may experience cognitive overload and be unable to act, while others may question the unfolding events. Panic may set in, leading to indecision.
In the event of a confirmed emergency, take immediate action in accordance with your emergency plan and evacuate through the most viable exit as swiftly as possible. By removing yourself from the crowded area, you are aiding everyone else, allowing for the possibility of extending assistance to others once safely outside.
Shield.
In the event of being unable to escape, it is crucial to seek cover behind the sturdiest possible barrier, ideally reinforced concrete or masonry. Contrary to depictions in media, tables, cars, chipboard/pasteboard walls, appliances, and furniture are unreliable for protection, except for concealing oneself or defending against falling objects. It is important to avoid relying on metals as well, as the majority of metals in buildings and automobiles are thin sheets of soft aluminum or mild steel, making them susceptible to bullet penetration and capable of becoming secondary projectiles in an explosion. Steer clear of windows, as they can easily shatter into numerous dangerous shards. Walls that are bullet-proof typically consist of 7-8 inches (15-20 cm) of reinforced masonry or concrete, whereas most load bearing walls of this material are only 6 inches thick, and non-load bearing walls usually consist of thinner, inferior materials. Even if a material is bullet-proof, bullets can penetrate joints in masonry or paneling, ricochet around corners, and even bounce back with enough force to cause harm. Additionally, objects overhead can be dislodged by an explosion, emphasizing the need to remain vigilant about protection from various directions. It is advisable to remain lying on the ground, as standing elevates the risk of being struck by projectiles traveling horizontally, while blast forces tend to move upward. Furthermore, collapsing structures can be supported by objects in close proximity.
Hide.
In the event of an attack, it's crucial to prioritize finding cover and staying out of the attackers' line of sight. Once you've found a secure hiding spot, take measures to barricade yourself in and, if it's safe to do so, communicate with officials. Patience is key while waiting for official help, and it's important to remain cautious of any potential threats posing as official helpers. Despite widespread perception, modern multi-method attacks are not always swift and simultaneous; they can unfold over an extended period, with terrorists targeting different responders and locations. For instance, during the attacks at the Stade de France in Paris, the second bomber detonated around 20 minutes after the first, and the third bomber did so nearly 60 minutes later. In central Paris, gunmen were engaged in combat for about 200 minutes following the first explosion. Accomplishes managed to escape overnight, and some remained at large for several days.Escape.
You can adjust this draft to further tailor it to your needs and use Grammarly Free's suggestions to ensure your final product shines. When in hiding, it's crucial to seize any opportunity to escape when the attackers are distracted or reloading. Being discovered or taken hostage by new terrorists can have fatal consequences. If confronted by official personnel during a rescue or confrontation, keep your hands visible and away from your body. If possible, use an open hand to point out and verbally identify the threats. Follow official instructions to evacuate and move out of the way.