As 2019 draws to a close and the new year begins we’re looking back at Counter Terrorism Policing‘s commitment and dedication to protect the public and our national security by preventing, deterring and investigating terrorist activity. This includes terror plots that have been foiled, striking the right chord with festival goers and insights into working with MI5 and other partners. Join us as we look back over the past 12 months…
Counter Terrorism Policing joined forces this summer with music industry trade body, UK Music, and urged festival-goers to #BeSafeBeSound.
The #BeSafeBeSound campaign was introduced as part of CT Policing’s annual ‘Summer Security’ Action Counters Terrorism initiative and encouraged festival attendees to report any suspicious behaviour, however small.
CT Policing designed a suite of social media content which was available for festival organisations and businesses to share via their online platforms.
The campaign generated social media support from festivals across the UK including Leeds & Reading Festival, Isle of Wight, Glastonbury, Parklife, Download, Wireless, Latitude, Creamfields, Gunnersville, 2000Trees, and many more.
The Mayor of London backed the campaign on his social media channels – along with government departments (Home Office, DCMS) and police forces across the UK.
Key advice for anyone attending an event:
- Please arrive early for extra security measures. This will help prevent delays in getting into the event.
- Be patient with security checks and help the staff to help you. We know it is inconvenient but they are there to keep you safe.
- It is essential that you do not bring unnecessary items to the event; this will help to speed up searches and your entry to the event.
- If you spot someone acting suspiciously, report it to police or to security staff immediately: don’t leave it to someone else.
- In an emergency, if you think there is an immediate risk, always call 999 and look around you for help from staff – especially those with radios who can raise the alarm quickly.
- Don’t leave bags unattended or anywhere they could cause a security scare. And never agree to look after anyone else’s bags, no matter how plausible their story.
- If there is an incident, listen to staff and any announcements. Organisers will have emergency plans to help you keep safe.
- Remember, the chance of being caught in a terrorism incident is small. But if it happens – Run, Hide, Tell.
“There are some huge festivals taking place in the coming months, and we want everyone to have a fantastic time.
“Whilst we want everyone to have fun watching their favourite artists, people’s safety and security remains the top priority for police and festival organisers.
“The purpose of #BeSafeBeSound is to ensure that everyone attending these events knows they have an important role to play in the wider security operation.
“Everyone can help make events safe and secure by familiarising themselves with the #BeSafeBeSound advice, by reading our Run, Hide, Tell guidance and to be ready to ACT if they spot suspicious behaviour and activity.
“Don’t think you might be wasting anyone’s time, it is always better to be safe than sorry. If something doesn’t look or feel right it probably isn’t, so tell someone.”
“While it’s important to stress that there is no evidence of any increased threat to live music events this summer, it’s sensible that we all stay vigilant and follow advice.
“Festivals and live music gigs in the UK are amongst the best attended in the world and have rightly earned their reputation as well organised events where nothing is more important than the safety of music fans.
“I would urge everyone attending events this summer to stay alert and follow the #BeSafeBeSound advice from the police to make sure everyone has a fantastic time in a safe and secure environment.”
Terror attacks foiled
What you can do…
The cooperation between the public and the police is a powerful defense against terror.
With the enduring threat, it is now more important than ever that everyone plays their part in tackling terrorism. Your actions could save lives. Like other criminals, terrorists need to plan. If you see or hear something unusual or suspicious trust your instincts and ACT by reporting it in confidence at gov.uk/ACT or, in an emergency, dial 999.
Your actions can save lives.
Action Counters Terrorism