Survive an Active Shooter Event

An active threat/active shooter is an event in which one or more persons are actively engaging in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearms, and there is no apparent pattern or method to their selection of victims. These situations are dynamic and evolve rapidly, with immediate deployment of law enforcement officers to stop the shooting and mitigate harm to innocent victims.

If faced with an active shooter incident, there are THREE things you can do that make a difference. RUN, HIDE, FIGHT.

RUN

When an active shooter is in your vicinity

• If there is a way out, and you can get out, GET OUT! This is your first and best option
• Get out whether others agree to or not
• Leave your belongings behind
• Help prevent others from entering the danger zone
• Call 911 as soon as it is safe to do so

HIDE

If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide

• Lock and/or barricade the door
• Silence your cell phone, including the vibrate feature
• Hide behind large objects if possible
• Remain very quiet and do not leave until directed by law enforcement officers
• Your hiding place should:
  • Be out of the shooter’s view
  • Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction
  • Do Not trap or restrict your options for movement

FIGHT

AS A LAST RESORT, and only if your life is in danger

• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter
• Act with physical aggression
• Improvise weapons
• Commit to your actions
• Once the shooter is incapacitated, call 911

Additional Resources

• Surviving an Active Shooter - Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department
• Active Shooter Training – FEMA Emergency Management Institute