Security Expert: Preparing In Advance Can Save Your Life In The Event Of A Terrorist Attack
NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- The frightening images of innocent people killed while enjoying the evening at Paris cafes and restaurants have many people fearful of terror attacks happening here.
As CBS2's Hazel Sanchez reported, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself if terror strikes.
"You can't ignore the potential of a soft target being hit," security expert Gary Weksler said.
As Weksler explained, the next attack could happen anywhere, at anytime, so the public needs to vigilant and aware.
"You need to know your environment. That's probably the biggest preventative measure you, as an individual, or people in groups can have," Weksler, Elite Investigations Ltd, said.
When visiting any place outside of home, like a hotel, a restaurant, or a theater follow three rules to best protect yourself.
The former NYPD Lieutenant walked CBS2's Sanchez through the protocol at a Midtown restaurant.
As soon as you walk in find the closest exits, and recognize the nearest escape route could be in the kitchen.
Next, locate shelter. It could be the table the you're eating at.
"Just turn it over, and hopefully you're buying yourself time. That's basically what you're doing in the event that you can't get out," he said.
If you find yourself in the middle of an attack don't draw attention to yourself.
"You have your cell phone silenced, and hopefully if you're playing dead and the shooter thinks you're dead, he or she will walk right past you," he explained.
The rules hold true even in the most familiar environments, like the workplace. Know your closest exit, and the closest place for shelter.
Weksler said awareness is always the best line of defense.
