Terrorist attacks, can we protect against them?

The attackers in the UK and Sweden have again both used a vehicle in a low-tech terrorist attack.  This heightens the need for anti-vehicular barriers and deterrents. Buildings are not always the initial target as they attempt to mow down as many civilians as they can, whilst heading for their objective. We also now see the use of explosives in the truck used in the Stockholm attack. Therefore, although the numbers of fatalities are low with these vehicle attacks, they will increase if the explosives detonate.

Anti-Terrorist Barriers

Because of these attacks, multiple barriers are now in place around the royal palaces and the Capital’s buildings that are more liable to attack. Even the funeral for Keith Palmer, the police officer, killed in the London attack, ‘‘Jersey bollards’ concrete removal barriers, lined the route.

We hi-lighted some of the barriers, currently used, in our blog “The not so humble bollard”, earlier this year. As we have seen shopping centres, markets, government buildings and embassies are often the end target. However, any area with large numbers of vulnerable pedestrians will suffice, so it is time to beef up your city centre security. We may need barriers to protect shoppers on our high streets.

Where to place them

In the event of an attack, the operator can flick a switch and raise embedded barriers. These automated barriers can also help control traffic, to pedestrian precinct, at different times of the day.  There should be a consideration of the use of barriers around public buildings and bus or train stations, where large numbers of people congregate. Parks and gardens are usually protected, by gates and fenced. However, larger areas of recreational grounds and pitches may also need some planning to deter vehicles.

Talk to us

If you would like to discuss anti-terrorism strategies with us, then please call and arrange a meeting. We can then show you the different types of barriers and ingenious ways to deter even the most determined.