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Act of Violence

Act of Violence

Answer

Your actions during an Act of Violence or Active Shooter situation should take into consideration the totality of the situation and the facts that you know. Consider your options when deciding to act, whether you run, hide, fight, or shelter in place. IF there is an emergency message from the campus, FOLLOW the directions and TRUST the message. IF there is no message, you must make the best decision given the information you have available. Always be aware of your surroundings and know what is going on around you, no matter where you are.    

Run – If you can safely leave the area, evacuate immediately. If you are inside a building, use any way out. Leave everything except your phone, if possible. Run until you are in the safest area possible.

Call 9-1-1 when safe.

Provide the dispatcher with the following information:

  • Your name.
  • Location of the incident (be as specific as possible).
  • Number of shooters or people involved (if known).
  • Identification or description of shooter(s).
  • Number of persons who may be involved.
  • Your exact location.
  • Injuries to anyone, if known.

If you cannot run, hide.

If it is too risky to run, hide. Do not be an easy target. Ideally, you want a room with no windows and a locking door. Make it look like the room is unoccupied. Turn off the noise on all electronic devices and turn out the lights. Be prepared to stay hidden for a long time.

If confronted, be prepared to fight.

Consider the weapons you have that are not typical. Fire extinguishers, chairs, and books can all be used to defend yourself. If confronted then fight. Commit to your actions. Make a plan with those you are hiding with. Fight until the threat is over.

When the police arrive:

  • Hands in the air
  • Avoid sudden movements
  • Obey police direction

How to Shelter in Place

  • Go to the nearest room or office.
  • Close and lock the door. If the door has an interior lock, use it.
  • Turn off the lights.
  • Seek protective cover. Stay away from doors and windows.
  • Keep quiet and act as if no one is in the room.
  • Do not answer the door.
  • Wait for police to assist you out of the building.
  • If you are safe and secure in your space, await further emergency messaging from the campus. There may be a time delay in additional information. Be patient.
  • Call 911 only if there is an emergency at your location.

Evacuate the Area

  • Move away from the immediate path of danger.
  • If possible, exit the building. Otherwise, SHELTER IN PLACE.
  • Notify anyone you may encounter to avoid the location of gunshots.
  • After evacuating the area of the shooting, seek shelter and stay there until emergency responders arrive and advise you what to do.

Call 9-1-1

Call 911 from an on-campus phone.

Provide the dispatcher with the following information:

  • Your name.
  • Location of the incident (be as specific as possible).
  • Number of shooters (if known).
  • Identification or description of shooter(s).
  • Number of persons who may be involved.
  • Your exact location.
  • Injuries to anyone, if known.

Shelter in Place if unable to exit the area

  • Go to the nearest room or office.
  • Close and lock the door. If the door has an interior lock, please lock.
  • Turn off the lights.
  • Seek protective cover. Stay away from doors and windows.
  • Keep quiet and act as if no one is in the room.
  • Do not answer the door.
  • Wait for police to assist you out of the building.
  • Call 911 from an on-campus phone
  • Provide the dispatcher with the following information:
  • Your name
  • Location of the incident (be as specific as possible).
  • Number of shooters (if known).
  • Identification or description of shooter(s).
  • Number of persons who may be involved.
  • Your exact location.
  • Injuries to anyone, if known.
  • For individuals not immediately impacted by the situation
  • Take protective cover.
  • Stay away from windows and doors.
  • Stay there until emergency responders arrive and advise you what to do.
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