Firearm and weapon attacks

 

Attacks involving firearms and weapons are still infrequent but it is important to be prepared to cope with such an incident.

The important advice below will help you plan.

 

In the event of an attack take these four actions:

 

Stay Safe

·         Under immediate GUN FIRE – Take cover initially, but leave the area as soon as possible if safe to do so

·         Nearby GUN FIRE - Leave the area immediately, if possible and it is safe to do so.

·         Leave your belongings behind.

·         Do not congregate at evacuation points.

 

REMEMBER - out of sight does not necessarily mean out of danger, especially if you are not in ‘cover from gun fire.’

IF YOU CAN’T ESCAPE - consider locking yourself and others in a room or cupboard. Barricade the door then stay away from it.

If possible choose a room where escape or further movement is possible. Silence any sources of noise, such as mobile phones, that may give away your presence.

See

The more information that you can pass to police the better but NEVER risk your own safety or that of others

to gain it. Consider using CCTV and other remote methods where possible to reduce the risk.

If it is safe to do so, think about the following:

• Is it a firearms / weapons incident?             • Exact location of the incident.

• What else are they carrying?                     • Number and description of gunmen.

• Moving in any particular direction?              • Type of firearm -long-barrelled or handgun.                                                             

• Are they communicating with others?            • Number of casualties / people in the area.

Tell

• POLICE - contact them immediately by dialling 999 or via your control room, giving them the information shown under

‘See’.

• Use all the channels of communication available to you to inform staff, visitors, neighbouring premises,

etc of the danger.

Act

• Secure your immediate environment and other vulnerable areas.

• Keep people out of public areas, such as corridors and foyers.

• Move away from the door and remain quiet until told otherwise by appropriate authorities or if you need to move for safety

reasons, such as a building fire.

Armed Police

In the event of an attack involving firearms or weapons, a Police Officer’s priority is to protect and save lives.

Please remember:

•Initially they may not be able to distinguish you from the gunmen.

•Officers may be armed and may point guns at you.

•They may have to treat the public firmly. Follow their instructions; keep hands in the air / in view.

•Avoid quick movement towards the officers and pointing, screaming or shouting.

Plan

Consider the following when planning for a firearms / weapons incident

1. How you would communicate with staff, visitors, neighbouring premises, etc.

2. What key messages would you give to them in order to keep them safe.

3. Have the ability to secure key parts of the building to hinder free movement of the gunmen.

3. Think about incorporating this into your emergency planning and briefings

4. Test your plan at least annually.

If you require further information then please liaise with your Counter Terrorism Security Adviser (CTSA).