Procedures and Information for Active Shooter Situations

The presence of an active shooter creates a very dynamic situation. Decisions on what to do in an active shooter or active threat situation lies with YOU. Your best three options, depending on your situation, are: RUN, HIDE, FIGHT.

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Run

If there is an accessible escape path, leave the premises – if you can get out safely, do it.

  • Have a clear escape route and plan in mind.
  • Encourage others with you to also flee.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Leave your belongings behind. Do not carry anything.
  • Keep your hands visible.
  • Help others escape, if possible, but do not attempt to move wounded people.
  • Call 911 when safe to do so.
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Hide

Sheltering in place may be the best option if you are unsure where the active shooter is located.

  • If you are able, go to a room that can be locked, barricaded or secured, and ensure that all doors and windows are closed.
  • Get on the floor, turn off all lights, and make sure no one is visible from outside the room. Stay out of the active shooter’s view.
  • Remain very quiet.
  • Silence your cell phone and/or pager.
  • Do not restrict your options for movement if needed
  • Stay in your hiding place until YOU ARE SURE that it is safe – do not respond to any voice commands until you can verify with certainty that they are being issued by a police officer.
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Fight

If evacuation and hiding are not possible, use only as a last resort and if your life is at risk.

  • Dial 911, if possible, to alert police to the active shooter’s location.
  • As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter.
  • Act with physical aggression and throw items or improvise weapons to use on the active shooter.
  • Yell, scream, and commit to your actions. Your life is at stake.

When Law Enforcement Arrives

  • Remain calm and follow officer instructions
  • Put down any items in your hands, keeping them visible at all times
  • Avoid making quick movements towards officers such as attempting to hold on to them for safety
  • Avoid pointing, screaming, or yelling
  • Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating – allow them to do their job
  • Active shooter pocket card
  • Homeland Security Active Shooter Preparedness
top5venues

Top 5 Venues Targeted by Active Shooters

There have been a total of 135 attacks: 6 at government buildings, 13 at entertainment venues, 15 at stores / malls, 24 in the workplace, 38 at schools, and 39 in other areas. Information provided by Dais. Inc.

weaponofchoice

The Mass Shooter’s Weapon of Choice

81% of weapons were obtained legally, 16% illegally, and 3% unknown. Out of those weapons obtained, 60% were handguns, 28% were shotguns, 22% were rifles, and 12% were revolvers. Information provided by Dais. Inc.