How to keep yourself safe from bombs

JAKARTA (JP): Here are some tips from Bill Glenwright of security consultancy firm, Hill and Associates, and the Indonesia Peace Forum's information center on how to avoid getting caught in a bomb-related sticky situation or getting out of it when you suddenly find yourself in one.

To avoid first-hand experience of a bomb blast:

* Avoid going to high-profile premises and institutions whenever possible: while there are no places that are "especially prone" to terrorist attacks, it is likely that a person or group wishing to commit a terrorist act would target a high-profile premises or institution in order to maximize media coverage on both a national and international level, as has occurred in previous terrorist incidents.

* Always exercise vigilance: embassies typically suggest taking sensible precautions in day-to-day living in Jakarta - particularly in public places - by spending the minimum time possible in crowded locations, varying routines such as travel routes and being wary of strange vehicles parked near residences or other buildings.

* Keep well-informed: stay away from known trouble spots and avoid large crowds.

* If you receive a written bomb threat: keep it. If you receive a threat by phone: do not panic, ask for the caller's name or other identity and ask the reason for the bombing.

* Be alert to suspicious or apparently unclaimed packages: bombs do not come in thin packages. A letter bomb would be quite heavy, with a thickness of more than 3 cm and dimensions of at least 10 by 15 cm. Report the finding immediately without lifting or shaking the package.

When a bomb explodes near you:

* Try not to panic

* Be alert: take note of the situation around you, particularly the time and location of the blast.

* Beware of debris: splintered glass is not only sharp but also slippery, so walk carefully (particularly if the blast occurs indoors). Beware also of people panicking and running on this slippery floor as they might run into you. Try not to fall if this happens because not only will you get hurt, you might also get trampled on.

* Beware of water: puddles might be charged with electricity.

After an explosion:

* Go to open areas, such as fields or parks away from buildings.

* Do not look for shelter: bomb blasts are usually followed by heavy smoke which can easily cause suffocation.

* If you are indoors, watch out for regular exits and emergency exits: this will make it easier to escape once help arrives.

* Contact the nearest police station, humanitarian post, hospital or fire station. (Prapti Widinugraheni/pan)