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Viewing What You Can Do to Avoid a Terrorist AttackWhat You Can Do to Avoid a Terrorist Attack
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The pointers in this article may help you to avoid becoming a target of opportunity for terrorists. These precautions may provide some degree of protection, and can serve as both practical and psychological deterrents to would-be terrorists. By Larry Westfall Having an anti-terror/force protection plan is mandatory for military trips, and anyone taking an overseas trip should implement such a plan. Most terrorist attacks are the result of careful planning. Just as a car thief will first be attracted to an unlocked car with the key in the ignition, terrorists are likewise looking for the most accessible targets. The chances are slight that a tourist, traveling with an unpublished program or itinerary, might be the victim of terrorism. In addition, many terrorist groups, seeking publicity for political causes within their own country or region, may not be looking for American targets. Nevertheless, the following pointers may help you to avoid becoming a target of opportunity. These precautions may provide some degree of protection, and can serve as practical and psychological deterrents to would-be terrorists. • Schedule direct flights if possible, and avoid stops in high-risk airports or areas. • Be cautious about what you discuss with strangers or what others may overhear. • Try to minimize the time spent in the public area of an airport, which is a less protected area. Move quickly from the check-in counter to the secured areas. Upon arrival, leave the airport as soon as possible. • As much as possible, avoid luggage tags, dress, and behavior that may draw attention to yourself. • Keep an eye out for abandoned packages, briefcases, or other suspicious items. Report them to airport authorities and leave the area promptly. • Avoid obvious terrorist targets, such as places where Westerners normally congregate. • Watch for people following you or 'loiterers' observing your comings and goings. • Report any suspicious activity to local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. • Keep a mental note of safe havens, such as police stations, hotels, and hospitals. Formulate a plan of action for what you will do if a bomb explodes or there is gunfire nearby. • Select your own taxicabs at random. Do not take a vehicle that is not clearly identified as a taxi. Compare the face of the driver with the one on his or her posted license. • If possible, travel with others. • Be sure of the identity of visitors before opening the door of your hotel room. Do not meet strangers in your hotel room, or at unknown or remote locations. • Refuse unexpected packages. • Check for loose wires or other suspicious activity around your car. • Be sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. • Drive with car windows closed in crowded streets. Would-be terrorists can throw bombs through open windows. • If you are ever in a situation where somebody starts shooting, drop to the floor or get down as low as possible. Do not move until you are sure the danger has passed. Do not attempt to help rescuers and do not pick up a weapon. If possible, shield yourself behind a solid object. If you must move, crawl on your stomach. About the Author: Larry Westfall is a frequent traveler to Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket and books his hotels in Thailand through Thailand Accommodations. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com) More free articles: 1st Rate Articles - 1stRateArticles.com |
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