What to Do
Run
- Have an escape route and plan in mind
- Leave your belongings behind
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow
- Help others escape
- Do not attempt to move wounded people
- Prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be
- Keep your hands visible
- Call 911 when you are safe
Hide
- Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view
- Lock the door or block the entry to your hiding place
- Silence your cell phone (including the vibrate model) and remain quiet
When Law Enforcement Arrives
- Remain calm and follow instructions
- Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets)
- Raise hands and spread fingers
- Keep hands visible at all times
- Avoid quick movements toward officers such as holding onto them for safety
- Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling
- Do not stop to ask officers for help or directions when evacuating
Information to Provide 911 Operators
- Location of the active shooter
- Number of shooters
- Physical description of shooters
- Number and type of weapons held by shooters
- Number of potential victims at the location
The first officers to arrive to the scene will not stop to help injured persons. Expect rescue teams to follow the initial officers. These rescue teams will treat and remove the injured.
Once you have reached a safe location, 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 the area until authorities have instructed you to do so.
Learn More
Watch this video on surviving an active shooter event.