Active Shooter

RUN.HIDE.FIGHT

If you are to ever find yourself in the middle of an active shooter event, your survival may depend on whether or not you have a plan. The plan doesn’t have to be complicated.

There are three things you could do that make a difference: Run. Hide. Fight.

RUN: First and foremost, if you can get out, do.

• If there is an escape path, attempt to evacuate
• Evacuate whether others agree to or not
• Leave your belongings behind
• Help others escape if possible
• Prevent others from entering the area
• Call 9-1-1 when you are safe

HIDE: If you can’t get out safely, you need to find a place to hide. Act quickly and quietly. Try to secure your hiding place the best you can.

• Lock and/or blockade the door
• Silence your cell phone/pager
• Hide behind large objects
• Remain very quiet

Your hiding place should:

• Be out of the shooter’s view
• Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction
• Not trap or restrict your options for movement

FIGHT: As a last resort, and only if your life is in danger . . . whether you’re alone or working together as a group, fight.

• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter
• Act with physical aggression
• Improvise weapons
• Commit to your actions

Remember: The first responders on the scene are not there to evacuate or tend to the injured. They are well-trained, and are there to stop the shooter.

What to do when law enforcement arrives:

• Remain calm and follow instructions
• Keep your hands visible at all times
• Avoid pointing or yelling
• 
  

  Know that help for the injured is on its way
  resources:  www.homelandsecurity.gov

Street Smarts

General Safety Tips

·        Follow your intuition -- trust your feelings. If you feel that a situation is not right, move out of the situation.

·        Be aware of your surroundings. 

·        Walk confidently and alertly.

Being Safe On The Street

·        Be aware that walking alone at night may be dangerous.

·        If you are being followed or you see a person or group further down the street who makes you feel uncomfortable, cross the street, walk in another direction, or ask other people walking if you may walk a short distance with them.

·        When walking near the car to your home or apartment, carry your house keys in your hand. Don’t stand in a doorway and fumble in your purse or pocket for your keys. Have them ready to use.

·        Use a grocery cart when you have many packages. You make a good mark when your arms are full.

·        While waiting for public transportation, keep your back against a wall (or pole) so that you cannot be surprised from behind.

·        Know your routes. Notice lighting, alleys, abandoned buildings and street people.

·        If you are going somewhere in a city with which you aren't familiar, check a map, know where you are going. Looking lost increases vulnerability.

If You Are Confronted

·        If may seem like a good idea to tell a robber that you have no money, but this technique may backfire. It is safer to give up a few dollars. Carry a little money separate from your other funds in an accessible place.

·        If someone demands your property and displays or implies in any way that they have a weapon, don't resist.

·        If someone tries to grab you, make a scene. Scream, kick, fight . . . do what you can to get away and attract attention.