1. Walk where possible on the side of the road facing the oncoming traffic. This might give a moment of advanced warning and a chance of getting out the way. Though this would have been unhelpful advice for people walking to the south of the river (actually the east) yesterday as it would have put them in the line of attack, but at least you could jump into the river.

2. Before crossing the road try to stand a little back from the edge and if possible behind an item such as railing, traffic light, lamp post etc to gain protection against the 'glancing blow' technique which will doubtless be developed in the coming years, and against buses right now of course which have bits that tend to sweep over the line of the kerb.

3. When crossing, do the prudent thing and get some other people between you and the possible line of attack. They might not do much, but any bit of velocity they might shave off can only help. What do you mean, cowardly? These are survival tips, not a guide to winning a George Cross.

4. Try to jump over the oncoming vehicle. This might not be straight-forward for non-gymnasts, and no use against buses and lorries, but surely worth a go against cars for the sport of the thing. Maybe a leap onto the bonnet then quick step and flying tuck, forward roll and pike.

5. Be, as we are constantly told, vigilant. What this means is to phone 999 every time our suspicion is aroused by anything. This will in no way clog up the phone lines, waste the time of the police and damage the likelihood of prevention of actual attacks.