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98 – If You Are Made Hostage!
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AT the outset of a terrorist incident, the terrorists typically are tense, high-strung and may behave irrationally.
It is extremely important that you remain calm and alert and manage your own behavior!
Avoid resistance and sudden or threatening movements. Do NOT struggle or try to escape unless you are certain of being successful.
Do NOT try to be a hero, endangering yourself and others!
Consciously put yourself in a mode of passive cooperation!
Talk normally!
Do NOT complain, avoid belligerency, and comply with all orders and instructions.
If questioned, keep your answers short. Don't volunteer information or make unnecessary overtures.
Make a concerted effort to RELAX. Prepare yourself mentally,physically and emotionally for the possibility of a long ordeal.
Try to remain inconspicuous, avoid direct eye contact and the appearance of observing your captors' actions.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. Eat what they give you, even if it does not look or taste appetizing, but keep consumption of food and drink at a moderate level. A loss of appetite and weight is NORMAL.
If you are involved in a lengthier, drawn-out situation, try to establish a rapport with your captors, avoiding political discussions or other confrontational subjects.
Establish a daily program of mental and physical activity!
Think POSITIVELY. AVOID a sense of DESPAIR. Rely on your INNER resources!
Remember that you are a valuable commodity to your captors. It is important for them to keep you alive and well.
Remember To;
-- Remain calm, be polite, and cooperate with your captors. DO NOT attempt escape unless there is an extremely good chance of survival. It is safer to be submissive and obey your captors. Speak normally!
--DO NOT draw attention to yourself with sudden body movements, statements, comments, or hostile looks.
-- Observe the captors and try to memorize their physical traits, voice patterns, clothing, or other details that can help provide a description later.
-- Avoid getting into political or ideological discussions with your captors.
-- Try to establish a relationship with your captors and get to know them. Captors are less likely to harm you if they respect you.
-- If forced to present terrorist demands to authorities, either in writing or on tape, state clearly that the demands are from your captors. Avoid making a plea on your own behalf.
-- Try to stay low to the ground or behind cover from windows or doors, if possible.
In a rescue situation;
DO NOT RUN. Drop to the floor and remain still. It that is not possible, cross your arms, bow your head, and stand still. Make no sudden moves that a tense rescuer may interpret as hostile or threatening.
Wait for instructions and obey all instructions you are given.
Do not be upset, resist, or argue if a rescuer isn’t sure whether you are a terrorist or a hostage!