Active shooter response is a critical topic that everyone should understand, as these situations can unfold rapidly and with little warning. Whether you’re an individual looking to protect yourself or a business aiming to create a safer environment, knowing how to react during an active shooter event can make all the difference.
*This blog contains sensitive information that may be difficult for some, read at your own discretion*
Surviving an Active Shooter Situation
There are a few practices that can help with an active shooter situation, including:
- Be aware of the environment and potential dangers; take note of the nearest exits
- Secure doors and stay hidden in office spaces
- Access a room and secure the door if you’re in a hallway
- As a last resort, attempt to take the shooter down
- And, call 911 when it is safe to do so
Run, Hide, and Fight
If an active shooter situation occurs, focus on running, hiding, and fighting.
Run:
- Have an escape route and plan in mind
- Leave your belongings behind
- Evacuate regardless if others agree to follow
- Help others escape, if possible
- Do not attempt to move wounded people
- Prevent others from entering the area
- Keep your hands visible
- And, call 911 when you are safe
Hide:
- Hide somewhere that is out of the view of the active shooter
- Block all entry ways into the hiding place
- Lock all doors
- Silence cell phones
- And, call 911
Fight:
Note: Fighting is an absolute last resort. Only when your life is in imminent danger should you fight the shooter.
- Attempt to incapacitate the active shooter
- Act with physical aggression and force
- Use objects around you as weapons
- And, commit to the actions against the shooter
Information to Provide to 911
Communication with emergency personnel is critical. Provide the following information when prompted, if information is known:
- Location of the shooter/where the shooting has occurred
- Number of shooters
- Physical description of the shooter(s)
- Number and type of weapon used
- And, the number of potential victims
*Only call 911 when it is safe to do so!*
Responding to Law Enforcement
Active shooter situations typically last between 10 to 15 minutes before law enforcement arrives. When law enforcement arrives:
- Remain calm and follow their instructions
- Do not carry items in your hands; raise your hands and spread your fingers apart
- Avoid quick movements towards officers
- Avoid pointing, screaming, or yelling
- And, do not ask questions during evacuation
Resources
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) provides a webpage on Active Shooter Safety Resources.
JJ Safety Provides safety meetings and online safety training covering information on Active Shooters. Active Shooter Response is provided in JJ Safety’s Workplace Violence Prevention (OSHA and Cal/OSHA) safety training.
Conclusion
Preparing for an active shooter situation is crucial for both individuals and organizations. By remaining vigilant, staying informed, and understanding the key strategies of Run, Hide, Fight, we can significantly increase our chances of survival. It is also essential to foster a culture of awareness and empathy, where everyone feels empowered to report suspicious activities and help others in times of crisis.