Stay vigilant this summer

This summer, we are working with Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands to encourage you to stay alert when and report anything that you see or hear that doesn’t feel right.

As we head into summer months, thousands of people across the West Midlands will be heading out to enjoy events such as music festivals, sports matches and other summer holiday activities.

Unfortunately, we know that crowded or very busy events and venues could be attractive targets for terrorist or other criminal activity. In April, the UK terrorist threat level was raised to SEVERE, meaning an attack is highly likely.

We are working with event organisers, venues and local businesses across the region to encourage vigilance amongst communities and to report suspicious activity.

There’s no specific intelligence or information regarding an increased threat to the region. However we are reminding you of the vital role you can play in keeping yourself and your friends and family safe when out and about this summer.

You know your surroundings better than anyone else and you know if something isn’t right. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out with friends or planning a trip to a festival, remember to stay alert and if you see or hear something that doesn’t feel right, report it to security staff where you are or police straight away.

Detective Chief Superintendent Alison Hurst, Head of Counter Terrorism Policing West Midlands, said: “We’ve got another summer of fantastic events taking place in the region. Many of you will be heading out to watch World Cup matches, enjoy some of the fantastic live music events within our cities, or planning trips to local food festivals and other community events.

“We want to reassure that we’re not issuing this guidance based on intelligence of an increased threat to the West Midlands. This national campaign aims to remind everyone of the importance of staying vigilant, looking out for each other and reporting suspicious activity.

“We work with local businesses, venues and those organising events to share this messaging and encourage their staff to take action if they see something that doesn’t feel right.

“You can help by staying alert and reminding your friends and family to stay vigilant while out and about. If something causes you concern, trust your instincts and let us know straight away – don’t wait for someone else to do it.”

When you’re heading out this summer, stay alert and follow our advice:

· If you see something unusual or that doesn’t feel right, report it to security where you are, police or online at gov.uk/ACT.

· Look out for each other and don’t delay or wait for someone else to report. · Anyone can complete the Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) Awareness e-Learning on ProtectUK; this will help you be prepared in the event of a terrorist attack. · Security guidance and ACT e-Learning can also be found on the ProtectUK platform.

· In an emergency, always call 999.