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Active Threat Guide

RUN (Evacuate). If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises.

  • Have an escape plan and route in mind.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • Help others escape, if possible.
  • Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active threat may be.
  • Keep your hands visible.
  • Follow the instructions of any police officers.
  • Do not attempt to move wounded people.

HIDE (Find Cover). If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the assailant is less likely to find you. Your hiding place should:

  • Be out of the assailant’s view.
  • Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e. an office with a closed and locked door).
  • Do not trap yourself or restrict your options for movement.
  • To prevent an assailant from entering your hiding place:
    • Lock the door;
    • Blockade the door with heavy furniture.
  • If the threat is nearby:
    • Lock the door;
    • Turn off any source of noise (i.e. radios, televisions)
    • Hide behind large items (i.e. cabinets, desks);
    • Silence your cell phone and remain quiet

FIGHT (Take action against the assailant). As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active threat by:

  • Acting as aggressively as possible against him/her.
  • Throwing items and improvising weapons.
  • Yelling.
  • Committing to your actions.
  • If the suspect has a weapon, kick it away and place a trash receptacle over it.  DO NOT PICK UP THE WEAPON. Point the weapon out to police officers when they arrive.

How to react when law enforcement arrives: Law enforcement’s purpose is to stop the active threat as soon as possible. Officers will proceed directly to the area in which the last shots were heard or last known location of the assailant.

  • Remain calm and follow officers’ instructions.
  • Put down any items in your hands (i.e. bags, jackets, etc.).
  • Immediately raise hands and spread fingers.
  • Keep hands visible at all times.
  • Avoid making quick movements toward officers such as moving quickly towards them.
  • Avoid pointing, screaming, and/or yelling.
  • Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which the officers are entering the premises.