What should responders be cautious of during terrorist events?

During terrorist events, responders must be particularly cautious of the presence of secondary devices. These are explosives or other harmful devices that can be placed near initial attack sites to target first responders or those gathered to assist victims. This tactic is often used to maximize chaos, inflict additional harm, and disrupt emergency response efforts.

Recognizing the potential for secondary devices is critical for safety during an operation, as responders need to maintain a high level of situational awareness and proceed with caution when assessing the scene. Other factors that could be considered in emergency scenarios, such as weather conditions or visibility, do not carry the same immediate threat level that the presence of secondary devices does in the context of a terrorist event. Similarly, overconfidence in equipment may lead to a lack of necessary precautions but does not outweigh the imminent dangers posed by secondary devices at the scene. Prioritizing safety and vigilance against possible additional threats can save lives and enhance the effectiveness of the response to the initial attack.