This week the independent Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has taken the decision to raise the terror threat level in the UK to “critical” following the recent Manchester terror attack.
The decision was made in light of it not currently being certain if there was a wider group involved in the attack. The current threat level recognises that a further attack may be imminent.
Firearms and weapons attacks are thankfully extremely rare, but it is important to know how to stay safe should an incident occur.
In the rare event of a firearms or weapons attack, if you are in a position where you find yourself in danger, remember these three words: RUN, HIDE, TELL.
RUN to a place of safety. This is a far better option than to surrender or negotiate. If there’s nowhere to go then HIDE, it is better to hide than to confront. Remember to turn your phone to silent and turn off vibrate. Barricade yourself in if you can. Then finally, and only when it is safe to do so, TELL the police by calling 999.
For further information on how to stay safe watch the NPCC video here.
At this time we are asking the public to remain calm but alert. If you see anything that causes you concern or if you have suspicions about someone’s behaviour, trust your instincts and call the Anti-Terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321 and specially trained officers will take it from there. Your call could save lives.
Always call 999 in an emergency.
For further advice and support, please visit www.npcc.police.uk
