Recent instances of campus violence across the country highlight the importance of creating a response and preparedness plan, and unfortunately illustrate that no campus is immune from the dangers from these acts of terror.
According to an FBI analysis, the average active shooter incident lasts 12 minutes with 37% of incidents lasting less than 5 minutes. Victims are often chosen at random.
In the event of an active shooter situation, your three courses of action are to RUN, HIDE or FIGHT.
RUN
- If it is possible to get to a safe place away from the scene, DO SO IMMEDIATELY.
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
- Help others escape, if possible.
- Do not attempt to move the wounded.
- Prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be.
- Keep your hands visible.
- Call 911 or 336-841-9111 when clear of the “hot zone” where the shooter is
HIDE
- If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely to find you.
- Your hiding place should be out of the shooter’s view and provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.
- To prevent an active shooter from entering your location, lock the door and create a barricade with heavy furniture.
- Silence your phone and turn off any TVs, radios or other electronic devices. Turn off the lights.
- Hide behind large items like desks or cabinets, and remain quiet.
FIGHT
- As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter.
- Act with as much physical aggression as possible.
- Improvise weapons or throw items at the active shooter.
- Commit to your actions . . . Your life depends on it.
When Law Enforcement Arrives:
The initial police officers’ primary mission is to stop the shooter. The first officers on scene will not stop to provide first aid or comfort victims. Initial responders may push bystanders down on the ground or out of the way.
- Do not make sudden movements towards the initial responders.
- Put down any items in your hands (bags, phones, etc.).
- Immediately raise your hands and spread your fingers. Keep your hands visible at all times.
- Avoid making any quick movements towards officers (such as attempting to hold onto them for safety).
- Follow all commands given by officers.