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Emergency

Terrorist incident

Official UK advice if you're caught up in a terrorist incident: Run, Hide, Tell — and how to stay safe afterwards.

WHAT TO DO NOW

  1. 1RUN to a place of safety if there is a safe route — this is better than surrendering or negotiating.
  2. 2HIDE if you can't run: get out of sight, stay quiet, silence your phone, and barricade if possible.
  3. 3TELL: call 999 when it is safe to do so; give the location and details.
  4. 4Follow instructions from the police and emergency services exactly.
  5. 5If told to shelter, go in, stay in, tune in; if evacuated, follow the official route.
  6. 6When armed police arrive, keep your hands visible and follow their instructions.

What not to do

  • Do not stop to film or photograph the incident.
  • Do not move towards the danger or gather to watch.
  • Do not spread unverified information or images on social media.

What is it?

A terrorist incident is a deliberate attack intended to cause harm and fear. UK Counter Terrorism Policing advises the public to follow 'Run, Hide, Tell'.

What might happen?

There may be a cordon, armed police, evacuation or shelter instructions, and transport disruption. Reliable instructions come from the police and official channels.

First 10 minutes

Run to safety if you can; otherwise hide out of sight and stay quiet. Call 999 when safe.

First hour

Follow police instructions. Shelter or evacuate as directed. Contact family to say you're safe when it's safe to do so.

First 24 hours

Stay away from the area until the all-clear. Support those who are shaken. Rely only on verified official information.

If it continues for several days

Follow official guidance throughout; the situation and advice will be managed by the authorities. Seek support if you're affected — help is available.

Children

Keep children close and calm; shield them from distressing images and reassure them they are safe.

Older & vulnerable people

Help those who cannot move quickly to a safe place and follow police instructions with them.

Pets

If you have pets with you, keep them controlled and follow instructions; your safety comes first.

Communications

Keep your phone on silent while hiding; use it to call 999 only when safe. Verify before sharing anything.

Official sources

This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.

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