Editorials

What to do if you witness an attack

31 January 2016

By Lauren E. White

After two thugs attacked a Durham man on a train, we have created a three-point plan on how to deal with violence in closed environments.

The attack broke out when the man stood up for his girlfriend after two drunk men allegedly ‘made comments’ towards her.  He was punched and grabbed around the throat after he challenged the men. PC Gavin Alcorn from British Transport Police had this to say: “Nobody should be subjected to abusive behaviour and violence on the rail network and we are determined to find those responsible.”

b**p’s three-point plan:

1. Call 999

If you witness someone being attacked in a closed space, like on a train or a bus, the first thing we reccomend is to call the police. Inform them of your whereabouts (for example what train you’re on, street name or surroundings) and give details about the attacker(s).

2. Make sure there are other witnesses

It is likely that if you are on a train or a similar closed environment, there are other people there too. Speak to them about what’s going on and make sure that they have witnessed the attack too.

3. Assess your own capability

Do not attempt to fight off the attacker(s) if they have weapons or if you are not likely to succeed. However, if you and the others around you feel as though you can take on the perpetrator(s), intervening has a strong chance of making them back off.  Whatever happens, remember to keep as many people as safe as possible.

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