On December 19th, 2016 a truck rammed into a Christmas market in Berlin, which killed 12 people and injured 56 others. The Berlin attack was a tragedy, and highlights the risk of terrorism in Europe.
The UK Foreign Office placed a high threat from terrorism in Germany before the incident. Their advice was that attacks could occur in public places, such as: public buildings, major events, transport hubs and large public gatherings. However, such advice is difficult to adhere to while traveling.
All SAFEY app users that visit Germany are automatically notified and informed, in-app, upon arrival, that Germany has is a genuine and increasing terrorism threat. All notifications and SMS alerts are sent in English, and all pre-departure information can be translated in most languages.
During the attack SAFEY users were sent SMS alerts about the incident, and were regularly updated. For those who weren’t at the market already, our advice was to stay away from the area to free up space for emergency vehicles.
If a Terrorism event occurs:
- Remain calm.
- Follow the instruction of emergency personnel.
- Listen to local media broadcasts for further information
- Implement business continuity and emergency plans if safe to do so
Evacuation During a Terror Attack
- Respond immediately to any instructions from the emergency services regarding premises evacuation.
- Seek to distance yourself from the situation if safe to do so; exit the area quickly and quietly, using routes that lead away from the danger, and make yourself known to police or emergency personnel
- Risk management team, business continuity manager or designated Incident Manager / Gold Commander may be liaising with the emergency services and on-site personnel to implement an evacuation.
- Use travel routes specified by local authorities—do not use alternative routes due to potential road closures, ongoing counter-terrorism operations or the threat of secondary attacks.
- The incident may require an invacuation or “Shelter in Place”. Personnel should rally at a pre-determined safe location and keep all doors and windows locked. Plant equipment should be turned off if possible. Contingency planning will need to consider sustenance, particularly fluids, first aid provision and toilet facilities at the pre-determined location.
- Be prepared to wait and remain patient. It could be many hours before personnel are able to leave the building.
- Do not leave the ‘Shelter in Place’ until informed to do so by someone in authority.