With two major public attacks in 2017 and a further 6 foiled terrorist attacks since 2014 [1], Melbourne’s crown of the ‘most liveable city’ has tarnished.
No longer swaddled by Australia’s isolated location, Australian citizens must live up to the realisation that they too are vulnerable to attacks by terrorists or deranged individuals.
Whilst bombs and guns are the obvious weapons to fear, attacks are becoming more common by using cars driven on busy footpaths. The unexpected nature of such an everyday utility makes these attacks unpredictable and increases vulnerability.
2017 a ‘bad year’ for Melbourne
Friday 20th January 2017, Dimitrious 'Jimmy' Gargasoulas kills 6 people injuring dozens more by driving his car at high speed on the footpath on Bourke Street in Melbourne [2].
Thursday 21st December 2017, 32 year old man, Saeed Noori drove his car through the busy intersection of Flinders and Elizabeth Streets in Melbourne injuring 19 people [3].
What you can you do to stay safe if you are caught in an attack in the city
Don’t walk down the street with headphones in your ears - remaining vigilant involves all senses listening will alert you to sounds that will warn you of imminent danger.
Don’t use your phone while walking down the street. - remaining vigilant involves all senses, phones not only occupy your vision but also your capacity to concentrate on what is happening around you.
If an incident happens don’t stop to film or video it. Your safety is paramount and could draw attention to yourself from the attacker by filming the incident.
Remove yourself from the danger zone. Sounds obvious but how many people stop to see what is going on? Onlookers block roads and stop emergency services from doing their job. Onlookers increase the risk of danger to themselves and others.
Take cover - get off the street, find a protected space away from the immediate danger avoiding glass windows.
Remain calm - panic inhibits the ability to think rationally and will panic others.
Listen to the emergency services - follow instructions, when and where to move to and when the incident is over.
Seek help - medical or counselling is important to recover from the physical injury or mental shock of being involved in an attack.
Crisis Shield now offer bespoke situational awareness training for staff. For more information, contact one of our consultants today.
References
[1]
Flinders Street
https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/dec/21/pedestrians-hit-by-a-car-on-melbournes-flinders-street-police-say
[2]
Bourke Street
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/bourke-street-attack-sixth-murder-charge-for-dimitrious-jimmy-gargasoulas-20170331-gvapxd.html
[3]
SBS terror plot report
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/melbourne-s-history-of-attacks-and-foiled-terror-plots