This document outlines reactions to active shooter situations, emphasizing three options: evacuate, shelter in place, and as a last resort, fight back. It details the characteristics of armed individuals and warning signs of potential violence, urging individuals to report concerning behavior to HR. Additionally, it advises on how to interact with law enforcement when they arrive and stresses the importance of being prepared since active shooter events are unpredictable and can escalate rapidly.

1. REACTING TO ACTIVE SHOOTERSREACTING TO ACTIVE SHOOTERS
BEST OPTIONS IN ORDER OF CHOICE:
1. Evacuate
• Know your best escape routes.
• Leave your belongings behind.
• Keep your hands visible.
2. Shelter in Place
• Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view.
• Lock or block doors or improvise a barricade.
• Silence your mobile phone.
3. Fight Back
• As a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger.
• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter.
• Use physical violence, striking eyes and/or throat.
• Throw items at the active shooter.
WHEN LAW ENFORCEMENT ARRIVESWHEN LAW ENFORCEMENT ARRIVES
• Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions.
• Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling.
• Keep hands raised and spread fingers.
• Do not stop officers or ask for help.
• Avoid quick movements toward officers.
• Ask before reaching into clothing, desk, etc.
CHARACTERISTICS OF ARMED INDIVIDUALS
• Individuals with a gun on their person will often touch the gun, consciously or unconsciously.
• Right-handed persons (88% of population), often carry illegal handguns in their front waistband.
• Hold their arm against the concealed weapon, with little or no swinging action.
• Their clothing may not match or be appropriate for the season or location.
• May be carrying a bag, case or backpack out of place with circumstances/location.
WARNING SIGNS OF INCIPIENT VIOLENCEWARNING SIGNS OF INCIPIENT VIOLENCE
Active Shooters may be current or former co-workers, Many active shooters will tell one or more people of
their plans before acting. Alert your Human Resources Department if you believe someone is exhibiting
indicators or potentially violent behavior. Warning signs may include:
• Increased use of alcohol and/or drugs.
• Unexplained increase in absenteeism, and/or vague physical complaints.
• Depression/Withdrawal.
• Increased severe mood swings, and noticeably unstable or emotional responses.
• Increasingly talks of problems at home.
• Increase in unsolicited comments about violence, firearms or other weapons and violent crimes.
• Co-workers feeling fearful, even if they can’t say why.
An Active Shooter is an individual who kills or attempts to kill people in a workplace or
other public location. Often there is no pattern or method to the selection of victims.
Active shooter events are unpredictable and evolve fast. Active shooter events are often
over in minutes. You must be prepared to deal with an active shooter until help arrives.
Copyright 2017 by Best Defense USA
BestDefenseUSA.com
Active Shooters:Active Shooters:
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ONLYONLY
WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!WHEN IT IS SAFE TO DO SO!