Counter Terror Expo

Leading security expert Chris Phillips says that the attack on the Lindt café in Sydney highlights the need for all crowded places to have a contingency plan for implementation in the event of a terrorist attack.

Speaking on behalf of Counter Terror Expo, the annual exhibition and conference, Mr. Phillips said, "We have to face the reality that locations such as primary schools, shopping malls and leisure centres are all potential targets for terrorist attack today. They should all develop and rehearse an emergency response plan just as they do with fire drills."

Drawing on his extensive experience of counter terrorism, Mr Phillips makes these recommendations:

1. Understand that a terrorist attack is very different situation to a fire and there are different options to consider.
2. While evacuation is usually the standard response to a fire, a security emergency may instead necessitate a lockdown, as sending people out could be more dangerous. Establish where the safe places are in the premises.
3. If hiding from the attackers, create a barricade, stay away from doors and remain quiet.
4. Consider how you communicate in an emergency, e.g. alarms or group texting.
5. Be ready to communicate key messages, such as "Stay away from corridors and evacuate through windows."
6. Unless evacuating, stay away from windows which can cause numerous injuries in the event of an explosion.
7. Understand the need to communicate with emergency services and what they need to know, e.g. the number of suspects, the types of weapons they are using, their location or direction of travel.
8. First aid kits and people trained to use them are an essential.
9. Practice the plans just as you would a fire drill.