How to stay safe during a terrorist attack

Post date: Jul 22, 2019 5:10:19 PM

Getting caught in a terror attack is the worst thing that can happen to you in public, but the odds are getting higher and higher. Acts of terror such as public mass shootings can be considered a terrorist attack even when done by a local. This may be an act perpetrated by a group or an individual.

When this happens, knowing exactly what to do can save the lives of many. According to public health and safety expert Capt. Martin Lloyd Sanders, there are very few options people under this duress can follow, and it all depends on their location and distance from the terrorists. These options are to escape or to hide.

Escaping a terrorist attack can be just as dangerous as staying put. To escape, you should be certain that the direction you are headed toward has no immediate threat and can be considered a safe zone. Having multiple attackers makes this more difficult to do. If you are familiar with the area you are currently in, think of a safe exit route with plenty of cover to hide from.

If escaping is not an option, the first thing you should do is to find a place to hide. The best place to hide is usually a room with a sturdy door which can be locked from the inside. The room should also have plenty of objects to barricade the door. The room should also have other means of escape like a window. Once you have secured yourself, contact local law enforcement and inform them of what you know.

According to Capt. Martin Lloyd Sanders, terrorist attacks can occur at any time. Knowing what to do in these situations can save lives.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., formerly held the position of Director for Safety, Environmental Compliance and Emergency Management in Federal Occupational Health (FOH/PSC). He has the task of overseeing department-wide safety, environmental compliance, and emergency response policy. For more reads on public safety, visit this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.