| Normally, the most dangerous phases
of a hijacking or hostage situation are the beginning
and, if
there is a rescue attempt, the end. At the outset,
terrorists typically are tense, high-strung and
may behave irrationally. You must be calm and
alert and manage your own behavior. |
- Avoid resistance and sudden or threatening
movements.
-
Make an effort to relax. Breathe deeply. Prepare
mentally, physically, and emotionally for a possible
long ordeal.
-
Try to remain inconspicuous. Avoid direct eye contact
and the appearance of observing your captors’ actions.
-
Consume little food and drink.
-
Consciously put yourself in a mode of passive cooperation.
Talk normally. Do not complain. Avoid belligerency,
and comply with all orders.
-
If questioned, keep your answers short. Don’t
volunteer information or make unnecessary overtures.
-
Maintain a sense of personal dignity and gradually
increase your requests for personal comforts. Make
requests in a reasonable low-key manner.
-
Establish a daily program of mental and physical
activity. Don’t be afraid to ask for anything
you need or want – medicines, books, pencils,
papers.
-
Eat what they give you, even if it does not look
or taste appetizing. A loss of appetite and weight
is normal.
-
Think positively. Avoid a sense of despair. Rely
on your inner resources. Remember that you are
a valuable commodity to your captors. It is important
to them to keep you alive and well.
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