Be aware of your environment and any possible dangers. In the event of an active shooter situation, quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect your own life. Remember to RUN, HIDE, FIGHT – in that order.
RUN
If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate;
Have an escape route and plan in mind;
Move away from the source of threat as quickly as possible;
The more distance and barriers between you and the threat, the better;
Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow;
Leave your belongings behind;
Help others escape, if possible;
Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be;
Follow the instructions of any police officers and keep your hands visible;
Do not attempt to move wounded people;
Call 911 when you are safe.
HIDE
If evacuation is not possible, keep distance between you and the shooter and remain out of sight. Create barriers to prevent or slow down the shooter from getting to you.
Your hiding place should:
be out of the shooters view,
provide protection if shots are fired in your direction,
not trap you or restrict your options for movement;
To prevent a shooter from entering your hiding place:
Lock the door;
Blockade doors that open inward with heavy furniture;
Secure doors that open outward with belts and straps around the door handle and closer arm;
Close, cover, and move away from windows;
If the shooter is nearby:
Lock the door;
Turn out lights;
Silence your ringer and vibration mode on your cell phone;
Hide behind large objects (i.e., cabinets, desks);
Remain quiet.
FIGHT
As a last resort, try to incapacitate the shooter;
Act with physical aggression;
Throw items and use improvised weapons;
Work together if with a group;
Commit to your actions.
CALL 911 WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!
Law Enforcement Response:
The first officers to arrive to the scene will be focused on finding and incapacitating the shooter. Expect rescue teams comprised of additional officers and emergency medical personnel to follow the initial officers. These rescue teams will treat and remove any injured persons.
How to react to law enforcement:
Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions;
Slowly put down any items in your hands (e.g., bags, jackets, phones);
Raise hands and spread fingers;
Keep hands visible at all times;
Avoid quick movements toward officers, such as holding on to them for safety;
Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling;
Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, as they will be focused on finding and incapacitating the shooter.
Once you have reached a safe location or an assembly point, you will likely be held in that area by law enforcement until the situation is under control, and all witnesses have been identified and questioned. Do not leave until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.
Information to provide to law enforcement or 911 operator:
Location of the active shooter;
Number of shooters, if more than one;
Physical description of shooter(s);
Number and type of weapons held by the shooter(s);
Number of potential victims at the location.