​Recent events around the world remind us all of the terrorist threat we face, which in the UK is considered as ‘SEVERE’, meaning an attack is highly likely.

Police and security agencies are working tirelessly to protect the public but it is also important that communities remain vigilant and aware of how to protect themselves if the need arises.

The four minute film, Stay Safe: Firearms and Weapons Attack sets out three key steps for keeping safe. The film is accompanied by an online information leaflet.

The film and leaflet advise that if you are caught up in an incident to ‘run, hide and tell’ - guidance which can be applied to many places and situations.

Speaking on behalf of National Counter Terrorism Policing, deputy assistant commissioner Neil Basu said: “The public should not be alarmed by this step.

"While the general level of threat to the UK is SEVERE, the probability of being caught up in a firearms or weapons attack is very, very small. However, it is important the public know what to do in the event of getting caught up in such an incident.

"Our advice has already been issued to tens of thousands of people during police-led security training sessions but it is only responsible that we issues this public safety guidance more widely.

"We know that from case studies and the testimony of people who have survived attacks that the advice given in the film has saved lives.

“With the threat level remaining at a high level, the police and security service continue to operate at a heightened state of readiness - we are working on hundreds of investigations and making an arrest a day.

"However, it is only with the ongoing support of communities that we can defeat terrorism - you are our eyes and ears so please be alert, but not alarmed.

"We are asking everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour or activity to the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321 or in an emergency, 999.

• To download the leaflet, click here