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Counterterrorism Experts Want UK Bars to Prepare for the Worst

In order to help bars and restaurants deal with potential terrorist threats, the UK’s National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) has even provided the service industry with a detailed document with advice.
Photo via Flickr user Sam Howzit

In addition to being directly targeted by the one of the three November 13 terrorist attacks in Paris, local restaurants also suffered some indirect repercussions.

In the first week following the terrorist attacks, restaurant sales dropped by an estimated 60 percent in Paris proper and by 25 percent outside of the capital.

Ripples of the Paris attacks were also felt on the other side of the English Channel (or "La Manche," depending on which side of it you are on) with significant dips in business in London restaurants as well.

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READ: What It Was Like Working in a Paris Restaurant During Last Week's Terrorist Attacks

"The public's nervousness is understandable and it seems London has been affected both by a drop-off in tourist business and Londoners not staying out as long after work," Peter Martin, vice president of CGA Peach, a business consultancy, said in a press release. "Operators are reporting both reduced sales and cancellations of bookings, in restaurants and late night venues."

But the implications of the Paris attacks go far beyond sales. With nightclubs and restaurants apparently becoming focal points for terror attacks, the sad reality is that those in the service industry would be well advised to prepare for the worst.

In fact, it would seem that they have been receiving advice from counter terrorism experts on how to plan ahead and take precautions for these types of emergencies, according to the Spirit Business.

In the weeks following November 13, London's Metropolitan Police reportedly advised London pubs, bars, and nightclubs to be vigilant, and to "review their security plans." And while the authorities are adamant that there is no need to panic, they are encouraging those who frequent drinking establishments to err on the side of caution.

READ: Your Burger Could Be the Next Big Terrorist Target

"I would urge the public not to be concerned about things they are unable to control, but to focus instead on what they can do that will make a difference." Deputy Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu, Specialist Operations for London's Metropolitan Police said in a press release. "Be vigilant and you could be the person who spots something odd or unusual and prevents an attack."

In order to help bars and restaurants deal with potential terrorist threats, the UK's National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) has even provided the service industry with a detailed document with advice on how to deal with worst case scenarios, according to the Spirit Business.

"Crowded places, including bars, pubs and nightclubs, may feature in the attack plans of terrorist organisations in the future; as they are usually locations with limited protective security measures and therefore afford the potential for mass fatalities and casualties," the document reportedly states. "In the worst case scenario, your staff and customers could be killed or injured, and your premises destroyed or damaged in a 'no warning', multiple and coordinated terrorist attack."

Yikes. Despite this pretty bleak warning, there is only thing left for consumers to do. Go to a bar, scope out the fire exits, and get drunk. Otherwise, the terrorists win.