Adapted from 10 ways to prepare yourself for a terrorist attack, by Brenda Tan and Rohini Samtani.After a series of recent terrorism attacks within cities around the world, such as Paris, Istanbul, Jakarta and Brussels, Singapore is confronting uneasy questions: Will Singapore become a target eventually? How will Singaporeans, who have long enjoyed peace and security, and the society at large cope with a terrorist attack? Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has asked people to be mentally prepared, given the Republic was “in the middle of a region [where] ISIS is active”.
But what can you do to prepare yourself in case of a terrorist attack?
A handful of sources, including the Red Cross and the RAND Corporation, an American think-tank, have been studied to make this shortlist:
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Be aware of the exits of frequently visited buildings
Although running away will be the best option during an attack, be extremely careful when doing so. Know the exits to places you visit often such as your school, office buildings and neighborhood shopping malls. This will help you stay calm and find these exits when under attack.
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Take note of where security officers are
Follow the instructions of security offices as they are equipped to handle various emergency situations and would be the best guide to helping you to safety.
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Take shelter behind fixed objects if there is gunfire
In case of gunfire, there is likely to be a stampede for the exits. If you are indoors, find a hardened pillar or support beam to hide behind. If you are outside and are hiding behind a car, stay behind the front of the car as the engine is the most solid and can block gunfire. Remember: Don’t get stuck in this place, just think of it as a short-term barrier to keep between you and the threat until you reach the exit.
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Help others stay calm
Focus on the people around you and help them to stay calm. The distraction in turn will help you act in a composed manner and make rational choices in an emergency situation.
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Inform family and friends that you are okay
Check in on Facebook and other social media to let your family and friends know that you are fine. This gets the message out to the largest audience in the least time.
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When travelling, notify Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) here
Make sure your family register their travels with the MFA. They will look out for you and offer assistance during any situations. Also keep the contacts of the local embassy of the country you will be travelling to with you as they can also help.
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Mentally prepare for what could happen
Find out what events might happen and their impacts on your home, school or other places you might be. Develop a disaster plan with your family to make sure that you can look out for each other in an emergency.
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Know how you can help
Learn some basic first aid. In an emergency situation, you should mind your own well-being first and then consider helping others close by, including first aid and possibly evacuating injured people.
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Follow the instructions of emergency officials
Local authorities will provide you with the most accurate information specific to an event in your area. Stay tuned to the radio and television, and follow their instructions.
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Avoid crowded areas
Stay away from crowded areas when there is an impending threat. Best thing to do? Stay home!
How else can you be prepared for disasters like this?
Source: http://themiddleground.sg/2015/11/18/10-ways-prepare-terrorist-attack/
