What is Fire As a Weapon?
Fire As a Weapon (FAW) is the deliberate use of fire within a terrorist attack with the intent to cause harm. This may include causing harm to people, premeditated damage to property, or a combination of both.
Methodology
FAW is likely to be employed in one or more of the following ways:
- Used as a distraction tactic which will draw the attention or response of security officers, which may allow vulnerabilities to be exploited, e.g. attackers may enter a building while security officers are focused on the fire.
- Augment other attack method(s) (bladed weapons, firearms etc) and so cause injury or damage to property, through the use of accelerants e.g. petrol bombs (aka Molotov cocktails) or other incendiary methods.
- Trigger a fire evacuation which might cause people to become vulnerable to an attack.
- Causing disruption or delay with the intent of preventing or restricting emergency responders confronting the attackers, carrying out lifesaving operations and extinguishing the fire.
Fire and smoke alone can provide a lethal mix. When combined with other terrorist attack methods as part of a Marauding Terrorist Attack (MTA), this can create an extremely challenging and complex situation. Starting fires during such attacks can be relatively easy and may require limited planning and preparation. However, a successful attack is likely to require detailed planning and involve capable attackers.
Case study
In November 2008, ten members of an Islamic terrorist organisation carried out 12 coordinated shooting and bombing attacks across Mumbai. As well as a number of explosions at the Taj Mahal Palace, fire was also used to act as disruption or delay tactic with the intent of preventing or restricting emergency responders to carry out their respective duties.
Protective security guidance links
For additional information on protective security options to protect against FAW attacks we recommend: