In today’s world, the unfortunate reality is that attacks at schools and workplaces can happen. Whether it’s a violent altercation, an armed intruder, or any other threat, knowing how to respond can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and the safety of those around you. 

There was a recent attack at Sheffield school where two women and a child were attacked and injured. The attack happened at 8:50AM, and the school had to go into lockdown, the pupils could not leave until 11AM. The students were hiding under the desks with lights off and doors locked.  

 In this blog, we’ll discuss essential steps to take in the event of an attack, including what to do if you witness the beginning of an attack, what actions to avoid, how to stay safe if you find yourself in the vicinity of the attack and what help you can get if you have experienced trauma from an attack.  

What To Do If In The Area Of Attack 

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: In the event of an attack, the most crucial initial step is to stay calm and assess the situation. Take a moment to gather your thoughts and evaluate the seriousness of the threat. Is it a lockdown situation, an active shooter, or another type of attack? Understanding the nature of the threat will help you determine the appropriate course of action. 

Follow Emergency Procedures: Before an attack occurs, it’s essential to have a plan in place. Schools and workplaces should conduct regular drills to familiarise students and employees with emergency procedures. These drills should cover various scenarios, including armed intruders, violent altercations, or other threats. 

Evacuate if Safe: If there’s a clear and safe path to evacuate the area, do so immediately. Move quickly but calmly, keeping low to the ground if possible to minimise exposure. Assist others who may need help but prioritise your own safety. Avoid stopping to gather belongings or checking on non-essential items. Once you have reached a safe location, continue to move away from the danger zone until you are out of harm’s way. 

Seek Shelter: If evacuation is not feasible or safe, seek shelter in a secure location. Choose rooms with solid doors that can be locked or barricaded. Turn off lights and silence electronic devices to avoid drawing attention to your hiding spot. Stay low to the ground and spread out to minimise the risk of being targeted by gunfire. Remain quiet and calm and prepare to stay in place until law enforcement gives the all-clear. 

What to do if you are witnessing a start of an attack 

Stay Calm: 

In high-stress situations, such as witnessing the beginning of an attack, it is natural for adrenaline to surge and fear to take hold. However, maintaining a calm demeanor is essential. Take a moment to breathe deeply and focus on staying composed. Clear thinking is crucial for assessing the situation accurately and making rational decisions. Remind yourself that panic only hinders your ability to respond effectively. 

Evacuate if Safe: 

If there is a clear and safe path to evacuate the area, prioritise getting yourself and others to safety immediately. Move swiftly but calmly, encouraging those around you to follow. Avoid causing a stampede or panic by maintaining a steady pace and providing clear directions. If applicable, assist individuals who may need help, such as those with mobility issues or injuries. Ensure that everyone understands the importance of leaving the area quickly and without hesitation. 

Ring for Help: 

As you evacuate, use your phone to call emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) and provide them with crucial information about the situation. Clearly state your location, including any relevant landmarks or details that can help emergency responders locate you quickly. Provide a detailed description of the attacker, including their appearance, clothing, and any weapons they may be carrying. Stay on the line with the dispatcher to provide updates as you evacuate and to receive further instructions if needed. 

Alert Others:  

If you witness the start of an attack, your first instinct should be to alert those around you to the danger. Use clear, and authoritative language to convey the severity of the situation. Use gestures or point towards the direction of the threat to ensure everyone understands the urgency of the situation in case you cannot make any noise, if you are a safe distance away where you will not put yourself in danger Yell commands such as “Danger! Get to safety!” to grab people’s attention. Remember, in chaotic environments, clear communication is vital for ensuring everyone’s safety.  

Do Not Confront the Attacker: 

While it may be tempting to intervene and confront the attacker, doing so puts yourself and others at greater risk. Remember that your priority is to protect 

Understanding and Addressing Trauma for Bystanders

Witnessing the beginning of an attack can have profound emotional and psychological effects on bystanders. Even if you were not directly harmed, the experience of witnessing violence or danger can leave lasting scars. It is essential to recognise and address the trauma that bystanders may experience and to seek help from local services when needed. 

Types of Traumas: 

Bystanders or witnesses of an attack may experience various forms of trauma, including: 

Acute Stress Reaction: Immediately after witnessing a traumatic event, individuals may experience symptoms such as shock, disorientation, and emotional numbness. 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Some bystanders may develop PTSD, a mental health condition characterised by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety or hypervigilance. 

Anxiety and Depression: Witnessing violence or danger can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or a sense of vulnerability. Bystanders may struggle with persistent fear, sadness, or difficulty concentrating in the aftermath of the event. 

Survivor’s Guilt: Bystanders who escape unharmed may experience feelings of guilt or self-blame for not being able to prevent the attack or for surviving while others did not. 

Seeking Help 

If you or someone you know has witnessed an attack and is struggling to cope with the aftermath, it is crucial to seek support from local services. Here are steps you can take to get help: 

Reach Out to Mental Health Professionals: Contact local mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, or psychologists, who specialise in trauma and crisis intervention. They can provide counseling, therapy, and support tailored to your needs. 

Utilise Hotlines and Crisis Services: Many communities offer hotlines and crisis intervention services staffed by trained professionals who can provide immediate support and guidance. These services are available 24/7 and can help individuals cope with the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event. 

Connect with Support Groups: Joining a support group for trauma survivors or bystanders of similar events can provide a sense of community and validation. Sharing experiences with others who understand can help reduce feelings of isolation and promote healing. 

Stay Informed About Available Resources: Research local resources and organisations that provide support for trauma survivors. This may include community mental health centers, advocacy groups, or religious organisations that offer counseling or support services. 

Helpful services 

Mind: Mind is a mental health charity that offers information and support for various mental health problems, including trauma. They provide helplines via phone and email, as well as face-to-face services through local Minds across England and Wales. These services include talking therapies, peer support, and advocacy. 

Online Community: Mind’s “Side by Side” is an online community where anyone experiencing a mental health problem can connect with others for support and understanding. 

Victim Support: Victim Support operates a free and confidential 24/7 Support line and live chat service for both victims of crime and witnesses. They offer specialist support to anyone who has been affected by a crime or has witnessed one. You can reach them at: 

Telephone: 0808 16 89 111 

Live chat: victimsupport.org.uk/live-chat 

Remember that seeking support is essential, and these services are here to assist you during challenging times.