Lockdown / Active Shooter
WHAT TO DO WHEN ENCOUNTERING AN ACTIVE SHOOTER/THREAT
An active shooter or active threat is an individual(s) actively engaged in attempting to harm people in a confined and populated area. Assailants may use firearms, knives, or even vehicles. In most cases, there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.
The information below outlines strategies for prevention, preparedness, and response. These safety tips and guidelines are not all inclusive, but if understood, reviewed periodically, and trained when feasible, they can increase your chances of surviving.
NOTIFICATION
In an active shooter/active threat situation, your first notification may be from the event itself. Alert others in your area of the danger. Call 911 or Clark Security at 360 992 2133.
An emergency notification will be issued through the RAVE and InformaCast Alert systems.
RESPONSE
Since every incident varies, you should be flexible in determining which strategy works best in that specific situation. You must determine your best course of action. This should be based on your knowledge and assessment of the circumstances (e.g., proximity to the event, actions of the shooter, available escape options and your individual capacity).
Run, Flee or Evacuate
- Have an escape route planned
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Move rapidly and deliberately, utilizing chairs, desks, and other objects to conceal your movement and provide protection if necessary until you reach a safe place.
- Depending on location, consider exiting through windows. Have someone watch the door as you get as many out the windows (ground floor) as calmly and quietly as possible.
Hide, Lockdown or Barricade
- If possible, lock the door. If the door has no lock and the door opens in, use heavy furniture or other items to barricade the door
- If possible, darken the room
- Be low and silent, including putting cell phones on quiet or vibrate
Fight
- Act aggressively, commit to your actions and attempt to incapacitate the assailant
- Find something to use as a weapon (chair, fire extinguisher, etc)
When the Police Arrive
- Remain calm and follow officers’ instructions
- Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets)
- Immediately raise hands and spread fingers
- Keep hands visible at all times
- Avoid quick movements toward officers such as attempting to hold on to them for safety
- Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling
- Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating
Always notify the police department as soon as it is safe to do so. Call 911 or Clark College Security at 360 992 2133