I was researching another article on bollards recently and stumbled across the “Terrorism” page on the Merseyside (England) Police Website. Note: Their headquarters are in Liverpool, England and they service five area boroughs.
The page featured the above short (but little viewed) video on YouTube entitled “Run Hide Tell”. Its message is simple and I wanted to share it with you because it is not getting the views it deserves.
The message is directed at children since they are often the tragic victims in terror attacks. The object is to try to teach them how to act to protect themselves as well as others and potentially save lives.
If you have young ones, it would be an excellent tutorial even if it features English personalities.
The terrorism page itself is very informative. Near the top they instruct you: “Don’t rely on others. If you suspect it, report it.”
They go on to define terrorism as a “serious violent crime intended to cause large-scale fear and panic.” Generally done for political reasons, terrorism is aimed at large numbers of random people, generally in crowded places.
They go on to explain anti-terrorism risks and strategies presently in place. Although overseas, some of the counter terrorism guidelines detailed on the site make sense here in the USA as well. Your suspicions should be aroused for instance if you witness –
- People with many passports in different names, taking unscheduled and secretive trips, communicating with different cell phones.
- Large amounts of chemicals, protective clothing or unusual deliveries. Unusual purchases made in your business of these items.
- Fraudulent use of credit cards or checks.
- Extended video or camera filming in public places that look out of place..
Here are some ways to report suspicious activity in our country.
The FBI Website tells visitors to call 911 or contact local police authorities if someone is imminent danger.
Suspected terrorism threats can be reported online at https://tips.fbi.gov/ and local field offices can be found at: https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices
ECI applauds the efforts of our local police and national agencies in helping to keep our country and its citizens safe through their anti-terrorism efforts.
