Run, hide, tell: Counter terrorism police issue 'life-saving' advice in new video

A new emergency action plan offering guidance to people in case of a firearms or weapon attack has been released by counter terror police.

The UK terror threat level is currently at 'severe', meaning security forces believe an attack is 'highly likely' - and while the National Counter Terrorism Police say attacks are rare, there are some basic steps people can take to stay safe if the worst should happen.

The four-minute film, entitled Stay Safe: Firearms and Weapons Attack, gives tips on how to behave if gunfire is heard.

They include:

• Run

If there is a clear path and it won't put you in greater danger, run, the video says.

Try to insist others come with you, but don't let them slow you down if they are indecisive. Leave belongings together, and try to keep going until you are away from the danger zone.

• Hide

If you cannot run, try to find a hiding place where you will be safe.

Lock yourself in if possible, but avoid dead ends and places without alternative escape routes. Ideally, the hiding place will have a thick enough wall or barrier to block any bullets from gunshots on the other side.

Stay away from the door, and stay silent - including muting your phone.

• Tell

Call the police as soon as you have reached safety.

Give them as much information as possible, including where you are, details of any victims and a description of the attackers.

If you can, stop anyone else from entering the danger zone.

When the police arrive, the video adds, they will be armed and may not be able to differentiate innocent people from the attackers, so it is important to behave as they instruct and not make any sudden movements which may be interpreted as a threat.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, from the National Counter Terrorism Policing unit, said people should not be alarmed by the video's release but instead see it as an opportunity to stay prepared.

He urged anyone who notices any suspicious behaviour or activity to call the confidential Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789321.