Staying Safe at Christmas Markets

For those visiting Christmas Markets this festive season, especially if in another country or unfamiliar town, a few practical tips for staying safe in this time of heightened terrorist threat.

Prepare! If you are driving, identify where you will park and the routes to and from the market in advance. Google Maps or Bing Maps will provide excellent detail, especially if street view is available. If you are using public transport identify the stops or stations you will use and if possible get a timetable, again look at the routes to and from the Market.

Consider what you will take with you; a good torch is always useful, your mobile phone, if possible with local emergency numbers already entered, and a small powerbank. Not everyone thinks medical kit is necessary, but a reflective blanket and an emergency bandage fit easily in a pocket and if needed become invaluable. Cash of course, but keep a reserve secure in an inside pocket, separate from your spending money, enough to get a taxi if necessary.

If travelling as a family or group identify a couple of prominent meeting points should you get separated. Think about what you will wear, could you run? will your shoes protect you from glass or other debris? are they slippy if its wet or snowing?

Many Christmas markets are set up on town squares and will generally have a number of parallel or concentric rows of stalls, try and familiarise yourself with the layout in order to not become disoriented should a disturbance or incident occur. Stalls are usually made of wooden boards and will not provide any ballistic protection (cover), however areas between or behind stalls can provide good concealed escape routes. Some stalls are trailer mounted and may provide minimal ballistic protection, fairground rides are usually constructed on a steel framework and as such offer some protection. The concrete blocks being used for vehicle access prevention will also provide good cover. Be aware of secondary hazards such as gas cannisters which many stalls use for heating or cooking.

When moving through the market try to remain closer to the edges and not get caught in the throng. Should an incident occur, immediately seek cover near a solid structure and look for the closest safe exit, at the least move between and behind stalls for concealment. In a crush some smaller stalls may collapse. Make your way to the periphery of the market and exit the area as quickly as possible. Head to your meeting point if it is safe to do so and communicate with friends and family.

Should you or any member of your group be injured get yourself or them to cover or concealment before you attempt any treatment. Only attempt to call emergency services once you are in a safer location.

Above all remain situationally aware, the first indicators that something is wrong could be the reactions of people around you. It is far more likely that someone will pick your pocket or that you will scald your lips on hot Glühwein than that you will be involved in a terrorist incident, but being prepared will enable you to enjoy the attractions that much more. Plan a meeting point, identify the layout and protective structures, stay oriented, have an exit plan and stay situationally aware!

Merry Christmas!