In order to ensure timely notification of the population about the emergence of a threat of a terrorist act, levels of terrorist threat may be established.
The level of terrorist threat is established by a decision of the chairman of the anti‑terrorist commission in the constituent entity of the Russian Federation[1], which must be immediately made public in the media.
Elevated “BLUE” level
is established if there is information requiring confirmation about the real possibility of a terrorist act being committed.
When the “blue” level of terrorist threat is established, it is recommended to:
1. When you are on the street, in places where people are massed, and on public transport, pay attention to:
– the appearance of others (clothes do not correspond to the time of the year or it seems that there is some kind of foreign object under it);
– oddities in the behavior of others (manifestation of nervousness, tense state, constant looking around, unintelligible muttering, attempts to avoid meeting with law enforcement officers);
– abandoned cars, suspicious objects (bags, bags, backpacks, suitcases, packages from which electrical wires, electrical appliances, etc. may be visible).
2. Immediately report all suspicious situations to law enforcement officers.
3. Provide assistance to law enforcement agencies.
4. Treat with understanding and patience the increased attention of law enforcement agencies.
5. Do not accept parcels, boxes, bags, backpacks, suitcases and other questionable items from strangers, even for temporary storage, as well as for transportation. If suspicious objects are found, do not approach, touch, open or move them.
6. Explain to the elderly and children in the family that any object found on the street or in the entrance may pose a danger to their lives.
7. Keep abreast of current events (follow the news on television, radio, and the Internet).
High “YELLOW” level
It is established if there is confirmed information about the real possibility of committing a terrorist act.
Along with the actions taken when the “blue” level of terrorist threat is established, it is recommended to:
1. Refrain, if possible, from visiting places with a large number of people.
2. When on the street (in public transport), carry identification documents with you. Provide them for verification upon first request from law enforcement officers.
3. When in public buildings (shopping centers, railway stations, airports, etc.), pay attention to the location of emergency exits and fire escape route signs.
4. Pay attention to the appearance of unfamiliar people and vehicles in the areas adjacent to residential buildings.
5. Refrain from carrying large bags, backpacks, or suitcases.
6. Discuss a family action plan in case of an emergency:
– determine a place where you can meet with your family members in an emergency;
– make sure that all family members have the phone numbers of other family members, relatives, and emergency services.
The critical “RED” level
is established if there is information about a completed terrorist act or about the commission of actions that create an immediate threat of a terrorist act.
Along with the actions carried out when the “blue” and “yellow” levels of terrorist threat are established, it is recommended:
1. To organize a duty shift among the residents of your building, who will regularly patrol the building and the entrances, paying special attention to the appearance of unfamiliar persons and vehicles, and to the unloading of boxes and bags.
2. Refrain from visiting places where large numbers of people gather, postpone trips to areas where the terrorist threat level has been raised, and limit the time children spend outdoors.
3. Prepare for a possible evacuation:
– prepare a set of essential items, money, and documents;
– prepare a supply of medical supplies needed to provide first aid;
– stock up on a three‑day supply of water and food for family members.
4. Once you are near or at the site of a terrorist act, you should leave it as soon as possible without panic, avoid curiosity, and try to help victims leave the danger zone when leaving the epicenter, do not pick up objects and belongings, or take videos or photographs.
5. Keep the TV, radio, or walkie-talkie on at all times.
6. To prevent the dissemination of unverified information about the commission of actions that pose an immediate threat of a terrorist act.
Attention!
As a disguise for explosive devices, terrorists can use ordinary household items: boxes, bags, briefcases, cigarette packs, mobile phones, toys.
Explain this to your children, family, and friends.
Don’t be indifferent, your timely actions can help prevent a terrorist attack and save the lives of others.
[1] The chairman of the ATK in a subject of the Russian Federation is ex officio the highest official of the subject of the Russian Federation.