Two separate gun attacks, one on the French embassy and another at army headquarters in the capital of Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou, have been described as an act of terrorism http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-43257453

Eight security personnel and eight attackers were killed in fighting that took place and 80 others, including civilians, were wounded.

Rumours of an attack in Burkina Faso have apparently been circulating for some time. Following Emmanuel Macron’s rise to power, France has attempted to mobilise its former colonies in West Africa in order to tackle Islamist militant groups operating in the Sahel region of the south Sahara.

The French embassy was hereto regarded as one of the safest places in the capital and the attack on the military headquarters is a clear strike at the heart of the country’s security establishment.

Attacks of this type always result in key individuals questioning the safety and security of both embassy and military personnel.

“Improvements to duty of care can usually be implemented following such events,” comments Paul Weldon, managing director of The Panic Room Company.

“For example, the inclusion of a panic room within the embassy for staff to take safe haven during a terrorist attack or kidnap attempt would certainly enhance any existing security protocols.

“Depending on the size of the embassy, safe areas could also be created on every floor of the building using sectional secure walling. This method is ideal for isolating large areas effectively and can provide safety and protection for many people. The addition of a manually operated secure door to access each safe area would fulfil the installation and provide a highly safe and secure place for personnel to seek refuge during any perceived threat to life.”