Travel Guide: Avoiding Terrorism

The first and greatest protective cover would be to stay clear of travel to areas where there has been a persistent record of terrorist attacks or kidnappings.

Most terrorist attacks are the result of careful planning. Just as a automobile thief will first be attracted to an unlocked vehicle with the key within the ignition, terrorists are searching for the most accessible targets. The chances that a tourist, traveling with an unpublished program or itinerary, might be the victim of act of terrorism are slight. In addition, quite a lot terrorist groups, seeking publicity for political causes within their own country or region, may not be attempting to locate American targets.

Nevertheless, the next pointers might assist you avoid turning into a target of chance. These precautions may well supply some degree of protective cover, and can serve as practical and psychological deterrents to newbie terrorists.

* Schedule direct flights if possible, and stay faraway from stops in hazardous airports or areas.
* Be particular what you consult with strangers or what others might overhear.
* Attempt to reduce the time spent in the public region of an airport, which is certainly a much less protected region. Move swiftly from the check-in counter to the secured areas. Upon arrival, leave the airport soon after possible.
* As significantly as achievable, avoid luggage tags, dress and behavior that may draw attention to yourself.
* Maintain an eye out for abandoned packages or briefcases, or other suspect items. Report them to airport authorities and leave the region promptly.
* Prevent obvious terrorist targets, for example locations where Westerners are known to congregate.
* Watch for folks following you or loiterers observing your comings and goings.
* Report any shady activity to local police, and in addition the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
* Maintain a note of safe havens, like police stations, hotels, and hospitals. Formulate an action plan for what you will do if a bomb explodes or there's gunfire nearby.
* Select your own taxicabs randomly. Do not take an automobile that is not clearly identified as a taxi. Compare the face of the driver with the one on their posted license.
* If feasible, travel with other people.
* Be certain of the identity of visitors before opening the door of your hotel room. Don't meet strangers at your hotel room, or at unknown or remote locations.
* Refuse unexpected packages.
* Check for loose wires or other suspicious activity around your car.
* Be certain your motor vehicle is in excellent operating condition.
* Drive with vehicle windows closed in crowded streets. Bombs might be thrown using open windows.
* If you're ever in a scenario where somebody starts shooting, drop to the floor or get down as low as achievable. Do not move until you're sure the danger has passed. Do not attempt to aid rescuers and do not collect a weapon. If achievable, shield your self behind a solid object. In the occasion you ought to move, crawl on your stomach.

Hijacking/Hostage Circumstances

While every single hostage situation is diverse, there are some general considerations to keep in mind.

* U.S. Government policy is firm: we don't make concessions to terrorists. When U.S citizens are abducted overseas, we look to the host government to exercise its responsibility under international law to safeguard all persons within its territories and to produce the safe release of hostages. We work closely with these governments from the outset of a hostage-taking incident to guarantee that our citizens together with other victims are let go as rapidly and safely as possible.
* At the outset of a terrorist incident, the terrorists usually are tense, temperamental and may well behave irrationally. It is extremely critical that you stay calm and alert, and manage your own behavior.
* Prevent resistance and sudden or threatening movements. Don't struggle or try to escape unless you're certain of being successful. Do not try to be a hero, endangering your self and others.
* Consciously put yourself in a mode of passive cooperation. Talk usually. Don't complain, avoid belligerency, and comply with all orders and directions.
* If questioned, keep your answers short. Do not volunteer facts or make unnecessary overtures.
* Make a concerted effort to wind down. Prepare your self mentally, physically and emotionally for the chance of a long ordeal.
* Try to remain inconspicuous, stay faraway from direct eye contact and the appearance of observing your captors' actions.
* Steer clear of alcoholic beverages. Eat what they give you, even if it does not look or taste appetizing, but maintain ingestion of food and drink at a moderate level. A loss of appetite and weight is typical.
* If you are involved in a lengthier, drawn-out scenario, attempt to generate a rapport with your captors, preventing political discussions or other confrontational subjects.
* Establish a daily program of mental and exercise.
* Feel positively and steer clear of a sense of despair. You are a valuable commodity to your captors, and it is critical to them to keep you alive and well.

By: Heidi G. Hopson

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