Personal Strategies To Stay Safe
During an Active Shooter Event
As most of us know, there have been way too many active shooter attacks at religious facilities, schools and public buildings recently and it definitely pays to learn and be aware at all times, no matter where you're at out in the community.
The primary and most widely accepted strategy during an active shooter event is the Run, Hide, Fight protocol endorsed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
If you're not aware, then you can most likely get caught right in the middle of such an event. You are more than welcome to print out this list or article, take a picture of it with your phone might even be better, then keep it with you in the car or any place you choose. If a picture of it is on your phone, in most cases, you always have it with you.
Many of the following strategies depend on whether you are able to do them in a safe manner without risking your life or the lives of others. If you are unable to act on any of these tips, do so when it is safe to do it.
Run (Evacuate)
If there is an accessible escape path, your highest priority is to eliminate yourself as a target by fleeing the area.
Try to have an escape route: Decide on a safe path before moving. Leave everything behind: Do not delay your escape to collect personal items, bags, or wallets.
Evacuate, when possible, regardless of others: Go even if coworkers or bystanders refuse to follow you.
Leave everything behind: Do not delay your escape to collect personal items, bags, or wallets.
Keep your hands visible: Raise your empty hands to show law enforcement you are not a threat.
Call 911 when possible: Dial emergency services only when you have reached a safe area.
Hide or (Barricade): If a safe evacuation path is not available, find a secure location to lock out the shooter
Lock and block: Lock the door immediately and wedge heavy furniture or equipment against it.
Silence electronics: Turn off all sounds and vibration modes on cell phones.
Turn off lights: Switch off overhead lights, computer monitors, and close window blinds.
Seek ballistic cover: Hide behind thick, solid objects like concrete walls or heavy desks that can stop bullets, rather than just hiding visual sightlines.
Stay low: Remain quiet and spread out away from the door.
Fight (Counter): As a strict last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, commit to disrupting and incapacitating the shooter.
Act aggressively: Throw items, scream, and utilize maximum physical aggression.
Improvise weapons: Use heavy or sharp objects immediately available, such as fire extinguishers, chairs, or scissors.
Use teamwork: If hiding with others, coordinate a surprise ambush to swarm the shooter as they enter the room.
Commit completely: Do not hesitate once you choose to fight.
When Law Enforcement Arrives: Police and Law Enforcement responders are there to stop the shooter, not to treat the wounded immediately.
Follow instructions: Comply with all commands from arriving officers.
Show your hands: Keep your hands empty, open, and raised above your head at all times
Avoid sudden movements: Do not run toward officers, scream, or try to hold onto them for safety.
Provide critical details: If talking to a 911 dispatcher or officer, state the shooter’s location, physical description, number of weapons, and estimated casualties.
This list and article provided by:
SecurityAdvisoryCouncil.com
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