It’s a moment that no one ever expects but should….what to do in an active shooter situation. It’s a stressful time as thoughts of escape, prayers, and reflections of your loved ones fill your head. There is no single response that fits all active shooter situations but knowing what to do can make a difference.
1. Respond Immediately.
Denial of the situation only delays reaction time. Leave your personal belongings behind. There’s nothing in one’s purse or briefcase that’s more important than one’s life. Items can be replaced. Life cannot.2. Run! HIDE! FIGHT!
Visualize possible escape routes as you move toward exits. Move as quickly and quietly as you can. Follow the instructions of your trained church safety officer, deacons or a first responder. Getting yourself out of harm’s way must be your first priority.If you not able to run, then HIDE. Lock and barricade doors with heavy furniture or other items. Turn off lights and cover windows. Remain hidden until identifiable law enforcement gives an all clear sign.
3. Remain calm.
Keeping a clear head in a moment of crisis might protect you and others from alerting the shooter to your presence. When first responders arrive on-site keep your hands visible at all times and follow all instructions given.It is important to create an emergency plan before a situation occurs. Share your plan with local first responders. Provide them with schematics and interior/exterior photos of the building complex. This will be helpful in their rescue efforts. Most importantly, practice the plan. A good plan is useless if no one knows it.
For additional resources, visit the emergency planning page on the Adventist Risk Management website.
For additional information, watch: Run! Hide! Fight! (This dramatization contains scenes that some might find disturbing.)
