Immediate danger to life: call 999 or 112.

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What to do during a terrorist weapons attack

Sources checked 13 October 2026

Action summary

  1. Run: If a safe escape route is available, move away from the attack.
  2. Hide: If escape is unsafe, find substantial protection and hide.
  3. Tell: Call 999 when safe. Give your exact location, what is happening, where the attacker was last seen, descriptions and injuries you know about.
  4. When armed police arrive, follow instructions, keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements.

Run: If a safe escape route is available, move away from the attack. Leave belongings. Encourage others to leave, but do not stay in danger while they decide. Avoid a route which takes you towards the attacker. Do not stop to film or livestream.

Hide: If escape is unsafe, find substantial protection and hide. Being out of sight does not necessarily protect against bullets. Lock and barricade a door if you can, move away from it, silence your phone including vibration, and remain quiet. Be aware of exits without exposing yourself to the attacker.

Tell: Call 999 when safe. Give your exact location, what is happening, where the attacker was last seen, descriptions and injuries you know about. Follow the operator's questions. If you cannot speak, follow the silent-call instructions in Receiving warnings and staying informed. Do not assume the police know where you are.

When armed police arrive, follow instructions, keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements. Officers may need to establish who is a threat and may not immediately stop to help injured people. Stay calm and do as directed.

Helping others: Only provide first aid when it is safe. Do not re-enter the attack area or expose yourself to rescue belongings. Tell responders about people who need assistance and their location. A disability or caring responsibility may change your available escape options; discuss these before an incident with the venue or workplace when possible.

Before visiting a venue: Notice exits and staff instructions. Keep children's contact arrangements simple. A venue's security plan can inform your response, but public Run Hide Tell advice should not be replaced by a generic instruction to gather everyone at an exposed assembly point.

Afterwards: Move to the safe place directed by responders, check for injuries, and send a short update to a trusted contact when permitted. Avoid sharing people's identities, casualty images or unverified claims. Obtain support if distress persists or prevents ordinary daily life.

Sources


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