Although active shooter events are unpredictable, motives are different, and warning signs may vary, there are three things citizens can do to increase chances of safety and survival: Run. Hide. Fight. The video encourages citizens to evaluate the situation and:
Run if a safe path is available. Always try and escape or evacuate even if others insist on staying.
Encourage others to leave with you but don’t let the indecision of others slow down your own effort to escape.
Once you are out of the line of fire, try to prevent others from walking into the danger zone and call 9-1-1.
If you can’t get out safely, find a place to hide.
When hiding, turn out lights, remember to lock doors and silence your ringer and vibration mode on your cell phone.
As a last resort, working together or alone, act with aggression, use improvised weapons and fight.
Homeland Security - Active Shooter Preparedness - How to Respond Resources
In the midst of the chaos, anyone can play an integral role in mitigating the impacts of an active shooter incident. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) aims to enhance preparedness through a "whole community" approach by providing products, tools, and resources to help you prepare for and respond to an active shooter incident.
Check out the: Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) Webinar.
The Texarkana, Texas Police Department hosted seminars addressing church safety. Follow the link to the Church Security Presentation for the material presented. For additional information, contact:
Developing High Quality Emergency Operation Plans for Houses of Worship - FEMA Guide
Be Proactive. Have a Plan!
“We don’t rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our training.”~Anonymous
Citizens are always encouraged to report suspicious behavior. If you SEE something, SAY something by dialing 9-1-1 in an emergency or call Crime Stoppers at 903-793-7867.