Fire-arms or Weapons Attack

Stay Safe – Weapons and firearms attack

If you are alerted to a firearms or weapons attack, stay calm, RUN or HIDE, only when it is safe TELL the police

RUN

• Consider your safest options.

• Escape if you can.

• Is there a safe route? RUN, if not HIDE.

• Can you get there without exposing yourself to greater danger?

• Insist others leave with you, but don't let their indecision slow you down.

• Leave belongings behind.

HIDE

• If you cannot RUN, then HIDE.

• Find cover from gunfire.

• If you can see the attacker, they may be able to see you.

• Cover from view does not mean you are safe, bullets go through glass, brick, wood and metal.

• Find cover from gunfire e.g. substantial brickwork/heavy reinforced walls.

• Be aware of your exits.

• Try not to get trapped.

• Be quiet, silence your phone.

• Lock/barricade yourself in.

• Move away from the door.

TELL

• Call 999 - What do the police need to know? If you cannot speak or make a noise listen to the instructions given to you by the call taker.

• Location - Where are the suspects?

• Direction - Where did you last see the suspects?

• Descriptions – Describe the attacker, numbers, features, clothing, weapons etc.

• Further information – Casualties, type of injury, building information, entrances, exits, hostages etc.

• Stop other people entering the building if it is safe to do so.

ARMED POLICE RESPONSE

• Follow officers’ instructions.

• Remain calm.

• Can you move to a safer area?

• Keep your hands in view.

OFFICERS MAY

• Point guns at you.

• Treat you firmly.

• Question you.

• Not be unable to distinguish you from the attacker.

• Officers will evacuate you when it is safe to do so