In An Active Shooter Incident Involving Firearms You Should

In an Active Shooter Incident Involving Firearms, You Should… Prioritize Your Safety and Survival

Active shooter incidents are terrifying and unpredictable events. The sheer panic and chaos can leave individuals feeling helpless and overwhelmed. Understanding what to do before, during, and after an active shooter situation significantly increases your chances of survival. This comprehensive guide outlines crucial steps to prioritize your safety and survival, empowering you to make informed decisions in such a critical situation.

Before an Active Shooter Incident: Preparation is Key

Proactive measures before an incident significantly impact your response and survival. While you can't predict these events, preparation minimizes vulnerability.

1. Develop an Emergency Plan:

• Identify Escape Routes: Familiarize yourself with multiple escape routes from your workplace, school, or any frequented location. Note exits, stairwells, and alternative paths. Knowing these routes beforehand drastically reduces your reaction time during an emergency.
• Designated Meeting Point: Establish a pre-determined meeting point outside the affected area. This ensures easy reunification with loved ones after evacuation.
• Practice Your Plan: Regularly practice your escape plan. This familiarization makes responding instinctively easier during the stress of a real-life situation. Drills, though sometimes inconvenient, save lives.
• Emergency Contact Information: Keep emergency contact numbers readily accessible – police, fire department, family members. Program them into your phone and keep a physical list as a backup.

2. Understand Your Environment:

• Security Measures: Be aware of security measures in your workplace or frequented places, including security personnel, alarm systems, and emergency procedures.
• Potential Hiding Spots: Mentally map potential hiding places within your immediate surroundings. This could include sturdy rooms with locking doors, closets, or areas offering some protection. However, remember that hiding is a last resort.

3. Situational Awareness:

• Observe Your Surroundings: Cultivate a habit of situational awareness. Pay attention to unusual behavior or suspicious individuals. This heightened awareness can potentially alert you to developing threats.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong or unsafe, act on your instincts. Trust your gut feeling and seek assistance or remove yourself from the situation.

During an Active Shooter Incident: Prioritize Survival

During an active shooter event, immediate action is crucial. The goal is to escape, hide, and as a last resort, fight. Remember, Run. Hide. Fight. is a prioritized framework, not a rigid order.

1. Run: Evacuation is the Best Option

• Escape if Possible: If there’s a safe escape route, evacuate immediately. Move quickly and quietly. Don't attempt to gather belongings; your life is the priority.
• Help Others If Safe: If you can safely assist others in escaping, do so. However, prioritize your own safety first. Don't put yourself in unnecessary danger.
• Keep Moving: Once you escape, continue moving away from the scene. Go to a safe location, notify authorities, and await instructions.

2. Hide: Seek Shelter if Escape is Impossible

• Find a Secure Hiding Place: If evacuation isn't possible, find a secure hiding place. This should be a room that's difficult to access, preferably locked and out of sight.
• Remain Silent and Still: Once you are hidden, remain silent and still. Turn off your phone to avoid detection. Minimize any sound or movement that could give away your position.
• Lock and Barricade Doors: Secure the door with anything available – furniture, chairs, etc. – to make it harder for the shooter to enter.
• Stay Informed: If you have access to news or emergency alerts, monitor the situation to gauge when it’s safe to exit.

3. Fight: A Last Resort for Survival

• As a Last Resort: Fighting back is only a last resort if your life is immediately threatened and you have no other options.
• Overwhelm the Shooter: If you decide to fight, act aggressively and as a group if possible. Aim for vulnerable areas, improvise weapons if necessary. The goal is to disable the shooter, not to engage in a fair fight.
• Remember: This is a Last Resort! This option is incredibly dangerous and should only be considered when facing imminent death with no other escape or hiding option available.

After an Active Shooter Incident: Recovery and Support

The aftermath of an active shooter incident is traumatic. The physical and emotional toll can be significant.

1. Seek Medical Attention:

• Assess Injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. If necessary, administer first aid.
• Emergency Services: Call emergency services immediately for medical assistance.

2. Cooperate with Law Enforcement:

• Follow Instructions: Follow the instructions of law enforcement officers. They are there to secure the scene and ensure everyone's safety.
• Provide Information: If asked, provide information about the incident to the authorities. Your testimony can be crucial in the investigation.

3. Seek Emotional Support:

• Talk to Someone: The experience can be incredibly traumatic. It's crucial to seek professional help and support to process the emotions and trauma. Talking to a counselor, therapist, or trusted friend can help you cope.
• Support Groups: Joining support groups for survivors of traumatic events can provide a sense of community and shared experience.

Specific Considerations:

• Children in Schools: Schools should have established protocols. Teach children the Run. Hide. Fight. strategy, adapted for their age and understanding. Regular drills are essential.
• Workplace Safety: Businesses should conduct active shooter training, establish clear communication channels, and ensure security measures are in place.
• People with Disabilities: Individuals with disabilities may require adapted strategies. Emergency plans should consider their specific needs and ensure accessibility.
• Mental Health Preparedness: Mental health preparedness is crucial, both before and after an active shooter event. This includes access to mental health resources and support systems.

Conclusion: Preparedness Saves Lives

Active shooter incidents are a tragic reality. While complete prevention is impossible, comprehensive preparation, training, and awareness significantly increase your chances of survival. By understanding the Run. Hide. Fight. strategy and taking proactive steps, you can empower yourself and others to navigate these terrifying situations with increased safety and resilience. Remember, your life is invaluable. Prioritize your safety and survival. Preparation is not just about surviving; it's about thriving in the aftermath and rebuilding your life. The key is to be prepared, stay informed, and remain vigilant. This guide serves as a starting point. Further research and participation in relevant training programs can enhance your understanding and preparedness.