"Be Prepared! How to React in Case of a Sudden Attack?"
We at Tallinn University have made it our goal to increase our readiness for potential crisis situations. Read on to learn more about how to react in case of a sudden attack!
What is a sudden attack?
In a university, public event, or space, people are suddenly attacked by one or more assailants using various means (cold and/or firearms, explosives, etc.). The goal of the attack is to kill or injure as many people as possible. Everyone who is encountered may be attacked.
How to recognize a sudden attack?
- You see an armed individual (with cold and/or firearms)
- You hear gunfire, explosions
- There's a general panic, screaming
- Multiple casualties/deaths
PS! If there are signs indicating a sudden attack, do not go to check or investigate!
What generally characterizes the attacker?
Most often, the attacker is familiar with the environment and is not a stranger. There may be multiple attackers, and they may attack in different locations. The attacker does not choose specific victims and their aim is to injure and/or kill as many people as possible. The attacker moves around, so information about their location may be misleading. Generally, it's not possible to reason with the attacker
In the event of a sudden attack, find the most suitable way to save your life! Keep calm!
MOVE AWAY
- Move away from danger.
- Do not take belongings with you (you can always retrieve them later).
- When moving, use as much cover as possible (obstacles on the way such as furniture, printers, etc).
- Do not move in a straight line (neither outdoors or in corridors).
- Use stairs (do not use the elevator).
- Warn people who are in the way.
- If possible, use a window to escape (on lower floors).
- Do not flee to the courtyard.
- When you see the police, keep your hands visible and do not run towards them, as they do not know who the attacker is and may misinterpret sudden movements.
- Follow the orders given by the police.
- Avoid usual fire evacuation gathering points.
- Move away from the university campus.
- IF YOU ARE IN A SAFE PLACE, CALL 112!
If you cannot move away - HIDE
- Find a suitable hiding place - away from doors and windows.
- Lock the door.
- Move furniture in the room to block the door (except if there's a window next to the door).
- Turn off the lights in the room.
- Preferably choose walls made of concrete or other strong materials and keep yourself low.
- Avoid talking and making noise.
- Set your phone to silent mode and turn off vibration while in hiding.
- Do not leave the hiding place until the danger has passed and a police officer allows you to do so.
- If you're unsure whether the person outside the door is a police officer, call 112. They can verify if there is an officer on the other side of the door.
- Plan your next steps, including escape and fighting if necessary, to respond to changing situations.
- Remember that the perpetrator is in a hurry, and if they encounter a significant obstacle, they will move on to find other people to attack.
PS! There's no perfect solution, and depending on the situation, you must think for yourself and act accordingly! Stay calm!
As a last resort - FIGHT
- Take advantage of surprise and, if possible, attack together.
- Use improvised weapons (clothes hangers, chairs, table legs, etc., anything that is within reach).
- Be aggressive.
- Disarm the attacker, hide the weapon, but do not keep it yourself, as they may attack you to get it back.
- After neutralizing the attacker, call 112 and let them know where you are.
When calling 112, provide as much detailed information as possible:
- Specify the exact location of the attacker (university building, floor, room, etc).
- Number of attackers.
- Description of the attacker.
- Type and number of weapons used in the attack.
- Number of casualties at the scene.
- Your location (room, number of people, etc).
The emergency dispatcher has a list of questions that they need answers for, by providing proactive information, you save time in critical situations!
PS! Do not rush to end the call and keep the line open!
What to consider when encountering the police?
- Stay calm and follow the instructions of the police officer.
- Upon the officer's command, place any items you are holding on the ground.
- Raise your hands and keep them visible.
- Avoid making sudden movements, do not hold anything in your hands, do not reach into your chest or pocket, etc.
- Avoid pointing fingers and shouting.
- Police officers may give loud commands, conduct security checks, and use physical force to ensure people's safety (such as restraining individuals, etc).
PS! Remember that police officers do not know who the perpetrator or victims are and we can help by following the instructions!