Prevent Attack
Terrorist
Often terrorists strike unexpectedly but there are still things that you can do to reduce the chances of this happening. Assess the likelihood of terrorist attack on your organisation and plan your physical security measures accordingly. Remember, together we can defeat terrorism.
- Choose a mix of protective measures that best suits your premises and will deter or detect the terrorist.
- Encourage your staff to protect themselves and your clients by being vigilant at all times.
- Test your plans regularly and evaluate the response.
- Prepare your staff for the possibility of telephoned bomb threats.
- Participate in any counter-terrorist security planning taking place in your community - find details out from your local Crime Prevention Officer.
Incendiary
You need to plan for any possible incendiary attacks on your business. Use the following information or contact your local Crime Prevention Officer for more advice.
What to Look for
Incendiaries are time-controlled firelighters designed to ignite rather than explode. They are usually about half the size of a video cassette box and will have wires and batteries attached. Devices will be carefully but not elaborately concealed and will be placed near flammable stock or in areas that will ignite.
Create a Strategy
The aim of incendiaries is to cause maximum damage to commercial targets. Consider the possibility that a device could be placed on your premises and then plan for that eventuality.
Make a Search Plan
You should include a systematic search at the end of the day’s trading and discreet searches during business hours and at times of high risk. If you have large premises then allocate specific areas to staff members who are familiar with layout or stock and are more likely to notice something out of place.
Ensure Staff Vigilance
Vigilance means checking on customers and stock (including returns), promoting customer care, such as making eye contact or offering assistance and watching for any suspicious behaviour.
Use CCTV
CCTV systems are an important security aspect for your business. CCTV cameras must be good quality, work properly and cover all blind spots.
Create a Call-Out Procedure
Incendiary devices are usually timed to activate outside business hours in order to cause maximum damage. Police should have an up-to-date list of your key-holders. You should also have a call-out plan for staff.
Carry Out a Risk Assessment
Anything that is flammable is vulnerable. The most common hiding places are around clothing, furnishings, seating and stationery. These will usually be at waist level or lower and may be close to exits or stairways.
If You Find a Suspicious Device
Do not touch or handle any suspicious item. If possible, remove stock from around the object. Clear people from the area and call the police on 999. We will need to speak to the person who found the item.
If You Receive a Phone Warning
The person taking the call should remain calm, courteous and listen carefully. Record the call and alert another employee to listen in, if possible. Write down the time and exact wording of the conversation as soon as possible, as well as the characteristics of the caller’s voice.
Further Information
You can get free and impartial advice from your local Crime Prevention Officer by calling 0845 600 8000.
