Terror on the Street: What Do YOU Do?

Street terror happens.  Whether targeted killings, as occurred in Paris, “wildings” as seen in Chicago and elsewhere last year, or street gang-related drive-bys that happen in every major city, they touch the lives of great numbers of people. Innocent bystanders are hurt or killed. Even if you consider it absurd that you or a loved one could be victimized by random mass violence, why not keep an open mind for as long as it takes to review these tips about what to do if the unthinkable does happen?

• Don’t block your intuitive sensors by covering them with headphones or distracting them with text messages. Stay alert to your surroundings, especially on the street, in shopping malls, sporting events . . . anywhere a crowd gathers.
• Watch people.  Does something catch your eye about specific individuals? Clothing? Manner? What are they carrying? What are they doing? Watch their hands and movements.
• Pay attention to the noise level. Ambient noise will change dramatically if there’s danger. You may not hear shots but you may hear screams.  The shriek of a child is one thing. Consider sustained screaming at escalating volume as a warning.
• Keep track of the nearest exits and how to reach them. Note places to take cover along the way. In an emergency, knowing the exits and moving swiftly toward them may save your life.
• Consider shopping at non-peak hours. At concerts or theaters  arrive as late as possible and leave before the show ends. Attackers tend to target venues when the largest numbers of potential victims are present.
• Be aware that an initial attack may be followed by others as first responders race to the scene. Get out as fast as you can.
• Don’t get caught in a stampede. At the first sign of trouble, move to a wall and stay there until the crowd passes or you spot a closer exit. If there is gunfire, or you can’t reach a wall in time, find a fixed barricade or object that's anchored to the floor and get behind it.
• Always choose a gathering place outside the venue for the people in your group. 
• As hard as it might be to do, make a conscious effort to stay calm. Breathe in for ten seconds. Hold it briefly. Breathe out for ten seconds. The higher your pulse rate the more difficult to make fast, rational decisions.  
• For more on staying safe, check out my website and new book Escaping the O-Zone