Active Shooter

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area, typically through the use of firearms. The event is sudden and often evolves rapidly. Victims are often chosen at random, and law enforcement is usually required to end an active shooter event. Being prepared mentally and physically before an active shooter event can help people take action quickly.

Attempt to run and escape the threat area if possible. Leave any belongings and quickly escape the premises. Warn and try to prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be. Be sure to call 911 and report as much information about the incident as possible (shooter description, location, type of weapons, and/or shots fired).

If you cannot escape safely, or if the shooter is too close, hide. Shelter in place in a room with no light out of the shooter's line of vision. Be sure to lock the doors and cover any windows. If doors cannot be locked, block doors with any available objects. Be silent (including phone vibrations), and communicate with police or others via social media or text messaging. Stay sheltered in place until the police give an all clear.

If a shooter enters your area and there is no way to run or hide, fight as a last resort. Act aggressively towards to shooter and use a "pack" approach, attacking the shooter in numbers if possible. Use objects readily available such as desks, chairs, fire extinguishers, books, etc. to distract, disarm, or injure the attacker.

For additional information on active shooter preparedness and action, please visit Ready.gov.