Informed. Prepared. Together
  • Terrorism
    In the current international context and in view of the tragic events of 22 March 2016, the risk of a terrorist action occurring in our country is not nil. On a day-to-day basis, visible and less visible safety and protection measures are taken in order to safeguard the population, key figures and institutions in Belgium. If Belgium were to be again the victim of a large-scale terrorist attack, responding appropriately shall be decisive for everyone’s security.

  • When faced with the risk of a terrorist attack, you can adopt a certain daily vigilance. If you are in possession of a useful piece of information, do not hesitate to hand it over to the local police.

     

    • Report any suspicious-looking object (an abandoned suitcase or parcel in a train station,…). Even if it is often just the result of forgetfulness, it is always safer to report such matters.
       
    • Report any suspicious-looking person. A suspicious action should draw your attention if it seems unusual with regard to the place where you are, e.g. when someone is: 
      • frequently on the look-out at certain places, 
      • showing a particular interest in aspects linked with a place’s security,…
         
    • Learn more about the authorities’ work, such as the threat assessment.
       
    • Follow the recommendations and the measures taken by the authorities when they ask you to do so.
       
    • If you have to travel abroad, please also follow the recommendations issued by the Foreign Affairs.

     

  • Should there be a serious threat or if an attack takes place, you shall be immediately and continuously informed about the situation and the measures to be taken, so that you can respond in the best possible way for your own security.

     

    If you are at an explosion scene 

    • Move away as quickly as possible and try not to panic.
       
    • Help the people who are experiencing difficulties moving away and take them with you.
       
    • If you are in a building, do not use the elevators. Cover your mouth and nose so as not to inhale too large quantities of dust.
       
    • Do not remain too close to buildings which could collapse due to the damage caused by the explosion.
       
    • Do however remain close enough to the scene of the incident so that the rescue services can attend to you.
       
    • Do not stay in a group, as another explosion could occur again.
       
    • If the rescue services are not yet at the scene of the explosion, dial 112 to give the alert.
       
    • To keep the network from getting overloaded as well as to keep the rescue services’ work unhampered, avoid making phone calls. Use instead the messenger services (SMS, Whatsapp,…) to report that you are safe.
       
    • Answer conscientiously the rescue services’ questions. Be precise.

     

     
    If you are at the scene of an armed robbery 

    • If you can flee safely, run far away from the gunshots. Only flee if you are sure you are not going to get hit.
       
    • If you cannot run away, duck down to the ground and hide behind an obstacle which can offer you some protection (knocked down table, wall,…).
       
    • Stay far away from doors and windows.
       
    • If possible, dial 112 to give the alert.
       
    • Set your phone to silent mode so as not to be spotted.

     

    If you are at the scene of a CBRN attack 

    A CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear) attack is not to be ruled out. Even if attacks based on conventional methods remain the most likely, several terrorist groups but also isolated individuals have shown their interest in CBRN means despite the technique’s complexity.


     
    If you are in the presence of a strange kind of powder, smoke, liquid or smell 

    • Move away quickly from the scene of the attack.
       
    • Go to a safe place and shut the doors and windows.
       
    • Dial 112 to give the alert.
       
    • Follow the recommendations issued by the emergency and rescue services.
       
    • If you have come into contact with a liquid or any other suspicious substance, take ASAP a shower and throw away your clothes in an airtight trash bag.
       

    According to the magnitude of the attack, you may have to evacuate your home. Get prepared.

    • Some public and/or sensitive places may be shut down after a terrorist attack (e.g. schools, administration services,…). Make inquiries about this.
       
    •  A terrorist attack can lead to post-traumatic shock. Should you have the slightest doubt about your physical or mental condition, please consult your physician.