Active Attacker Guidelines

• RUN / ESCAPE IF IT IS SAFE TO DO SO.
  • Have an escape route and plan in mind.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Warn and prevent others from entering an area where the active attacker may be.
• HIDE IF ESCAPE IS NOT AN OPTION.
  • Hide in an area out of the active attacker's view.
  • Lock and barricade doors, close blinds, and turn off lights.
  • Silence your cell phone and remain quiet.
  • Stay in place until law enforcement gives you the all clear.
• FIGHT AS A LAST RESORT.
  • Fight as a last resort and only when your life is in danger.
  • Attempt to incapacitate the attacker.
  • Recruit others to ambush the attacker with makeshift weapons like chairs, fire extinguishers, books, etc.
  • Act with physical aggression, yell, and throw items to distract the attacker.
• CALL 911 WHEN YOU ARE IN A SAFE LOCATION.
• When law enforcement arrives:
  • Remain calm and follow officer instructions.
  • Drop items in your hands and keep your hands visible.
  • Avoid quick movements towards officers.
  • Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling.
• Information to provide to 911 operators:
  • Location of the active attacker
  • Your physical location (building number and room number)
  • Number of attackers
  • Physical description of attacker(s)
  • Number and type of weapon(s) being used
  • Number of potential victims at location

Contacts