Surviving Terror Attacks in Kenya ¶
Kenya has not been spared the threat of terrorism, with the country experiencing a rise in terror attacks over the last two decades. The frequency of incidents has increased tenfold over the last decade, with notable attacks including the Westgate Mall attack in 2013, the Garissa University incident in 2015, and the DusitD2 siege in 2019.
According to the Manchester City Council, British Red Cross, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority of New York, there are three key elements to surviving a terror attack: run, hide, and tell. These elements are emphasized in their manuals for surviving a terror attack.
Before an Incident ¶
Being vigilant is crucial in public places such as malls, bus and train termini, and airports. Report suspicious people, objects, and unattended bags and packages to the police. Your gut feeling can be a lifesaver.
During an Attack ¶
When a terror attack is underway, the goal is to buy time and remain alive for as long as possible. Run to the safest exit, but only if it's sensible. Move quickly and calmly without attracting attention to yourself. In case of an explosion, do not run outside, but rather run away from the explosion and hide within the building.
Fire can also be a threat, so avoid using doors and look for fire exits. Cover your face and nose with a wet cloth and run. When hiding, choose a location behind thick walls or pillars where a bullet cannot penetrate. Avoid glass walls, even when they are tinted.
Hostage Situation ¶
Hostage situations can be traumatic, but remaining calm is crucial. Do not complain or argue with the captors, and obey their instructions. Avoid sudden movements, and keep your hands where they can be seen. Observe the captors and gather as much information as possible to describe them to the police after the rescue.
Rescue ¶
When help arrives, be calm and wait for instructions from the rescuers. Follow all their orders without defying any, and stay where you are. Do not run towards the rescuers, as this may make them uncomfortable, and do not run away, as this may result in injuries.
After the Attack ¶
Once the siege and rescue operation are over, there are three things to do. First, provide first aid to those who may have been injured. Skills in basic first aid are critical and can save lives before medical professionals arrive at the scene. Second, see a doctor and a psychologist for an assessment, as the trauma of a terror attack may not be obvious immediately. Third, share with the police everything you can remember of the attackers, including nuances, to help them establish who the terrorists are, their associates, and whether there are other planned attacks.
