Topic #11
In the Event of an Active Shooter
In the event of an active shooter
Links, Resources & More
- Take a free safety course from Nonprofit Safety Hero.
- View a complete list of volunteer safety topics from Volunter Safety Hero.
An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated or confined area. To stay safe in such a situation, there are ways to prepare yourself, both mentally and physically.
In the event of an active shooter, RUN - HIDE - FIGHT.
The FACTS: What you need to KNOW
- Staying calm and knowing what to do can save lives.
- If you see something, say something. Anyone can play an important role in preventing or mitigating an active shooter situation.
- If you call 911, you will need to know the name and address of your location.
A manager or volunteer coordinator should write this down and post it prominently for all to see. - It's important to stay observant. Make a note of the exits. Map out hiding places. Notice suspicious behavior.
The Actions: What you need to DO
RUN: Evacuate if possible. Have an escape route and plan in mind. Leave your belongings behind. Get out, regardless of whether others follow you. Prevent others from entering an area where the shooter may be. Keep your hands visible.
HIDE: Hide silently in as safe a place as possible. Hide in an area out of the shooter's view. Lock the door or block the entry. Silence your cell phone.
FIGHT: Take action to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter. Fight as a last resort and only when your life is in danger. Improvise weapons. Don't fight fair: you are fighting for your life.
When law enforcement arrives, remain calm and follow instructions. Drop items and raise your hands. Do not ask questions when evacuating. Once you reach a safe location, don't leave until instructed to do so.