Safety Recommendations while at Public Places
Public areas are more prone to
terrorist attacks because it is an easy target for them. In most cases there is
little control or restrictions at these places.
These areas could be at matatu/bus termini, recreational sites, stadiums
etc. Below are some of the safety recommendations
while at public places when you have heard news/rumors of a possible terrorist
attack.
Ø
Memorize the locations and phone
numbers of possible safe places to go, such as hospitals, police stations etc.
Ø
Avoid
crowded public areas and gatherings.
Ø
Keep
your eyes open to things out of the ordinary. Pay attention to people, and what
is happening around you. Watch
for suspicious activity and report it to the local police, I know you are
wondering what I mean by suspicious activity. Below are some of the activities
that would look odd with some question marks.
ü
People
in buildings or areas who do not appear to be conducting legitimate business.
ü
There
might be people who are monitoring areas, buildings or entrances. This is
suspicious because if you have no ill motive why would you be doing that not
unless you work there.
ü
A
person with ill motives may found in an area that is restricted, sensitive or
private; if you spot such a person raise your eye brows.
ü
Persons
taking photographs of critical facilities. Some of these photos being taken
could be used in studying the area well so that they have a clear plan on how
to attack the place.
ü
Persons
asking detailed information about physical security and/or information with no
apparent need for that information.
ü
Multiple
persons who appear to be working in unison, committing the above.
ü
People
wearing clothing not consistent with the weather conditions (bulky coat in warm
weather etc.) Yeah, not everyone with bulky clothing is a terrorist/terrorist
agent but am sure your guts won’t lie when you sense something suspicious.
ü
Abandoned
parcels or other items in unusual locations or high traffic areas.
ü
Individual
attempting to access utility locations (water, electrical, petroleum,
telecommunications, information systems).
Ø Trust your gut, if something doesn’t feel right then
listen to it. This is because in some instances you will hear victims saying
they sensed something wasn’t right but ignored
Ø Beware of your surroundings. Move or leave if you feel uncomfortable or if
something doesn’t seem right.
Ø Do not take news bulletin lightly. Do not step out of the house if
you come across news reports of terror attack and also call your relatives and
friends and ask them to stay back home.
Ø Try to analyze the situation. Rumors spread easily in such
situations. Try to know the facts from reliable sources.
Ø During the time of terror threats whenever you are in
a public place always have in mind alternative ways to get home.
It is good to differentiate right from wrong. These terrorists are made to believe in some ideologies
that lead them further and further astray. It is all about the mindset; radicalization concentrates on changing their
mindset thus enabling their leaders to sway them in whichever way they want.
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