When identified and handled properly, pre-attack indicators of violence, or PAINs, can be used to mitigate a threat. Preventing an attack requires the observation of subtle PAINs; not just waiting for direct threats. To read more about how to identify PAINs and react to them, read Using Situational Awareness to Identify Pre-Attack Indicators.
The following are actions that may be associated with PAINs and warrant closer attention, as well as possibly the application of a threat assessment.
- Threat of suicide or self-harm
- Threat of violence, directly or implied
- Fascination with/asserting ownership of firearms
- History of violence or behavior obviously insensitive to others
- Preoccupation with themes of violence
- Identify with dangerous individuals, acts and/or philosophy
- Preoccupation with other incidents of publicized violence
- Intimidating others, frequently confrontational
- Crossing boundaries (e.g., excessive calls, emails, etc.)
- Marked academic performance decline
- Notable changes in personality, mood or behavior
- Give away personal possessions
- Shows noticeable decline in personal hygiene
- Substance abuse
Brad Spicer is founder and president of SafePlans, a firm that specializes in all-hazards preparedness solutions. For more information, visit SafePlans.com.
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