In the unfortunate event of an active shooter situation, it is crucial to know how to respond effectively to minimize the risk of harm. The "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol provides a structured approach to surviving such incidents.
The first and foremost response should be to run away from the danger zone if you can do so safely. This means evacuating the building or area in an orderly manner, avoiding any contact with the shooter.
If running is not possible, find a place to hide and barricade yourself if you can. This could be a locked classroom, office, or storage room.
As a last resort, if you are cornered and there is no way to run or hide, you may have to fight for your life.
The situation may change rapidly, requiring you to transition between the "Run, Hide, Fight" options.
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there were 61 active shooter incidents in the United States in 2022, resulting in 191 deaths and 794 injuries.
The FBI defines an active shooter as an "individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area." These incidents can occur anywhere, including schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
Year | Number of Incidents | Fatalities | Injuries |
---|---|---|---|
2020 | 40 | 133 | 498 |
2021 | 61 | 122 | 779 |
2022 | 61 | 191 | 794 |
Location | Percentage of Incidents |
---|---|
Schools | 15% |
Workplaces | 40% |
Public spaces | 25% |
Retail stores | 10% |
Other | 10% |
Tips | Description |
---|---|
Stay calm and follow instructions | Panic can lead to mistakes. |
Evacuate if possible | Leave your belongings and head to a safe location. |
Hide if evacuation is not possible | Lock the door, close the blinds, and silence your phone. |
Fight back as a last resort | Use improvised weapons and target vulnerable areas. |
Assist others | Help people with disabilities or injuries to evacuate. |
Story 1:
During the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, students and teachers hid in closets and under desks, saving many lives. This incident highlights the importance of finding a secure hiding place and staying out of sight.
Lesson: Hide if you cannot run or fight, and use whatever resources you have to barricade yourself.
Story 2:
In the 2015 San Bernardino terrorist attack, employees fought back against the shooters using chairs and a fire extinguisher. Their actions saved lives and forced the shooters to retreat.
Lesson: Fighting back can be a last resort option, but it should be considered if there is no other way to escape.
Story 3:
During the 2018 Parkland High School shooting, students used social media to alert others to the danger and provide updates on the situation. This information helped law enforcement and families respond more effectively.
Lesson: Stay informed and use technology to communicate with others during an active shooter situation.
What should I do if I hear gunshots?
- Follow the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol immediately.
What should I do if I encounter the shooter?
- Run or hide if possible. Fight back only as a last resort.
What should I do if I am injured?
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
How can I prepare for an active shooter situation?
- Familiarize yourself with the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol.
- Identify potential hiding places in your workplace or school.
- Consider taking self-defense classes.
What should I do after an active shooter incident?
- Listen to instructions from law enforcement.
- Seek support from family, friends, or mental health professionals.
How can I help prevent active shooter incidents?
- Report suspicious behavior or threats to law enforcement.
- Promote mental health services and address risk factors.
Active shooter situations are rare but devastating. By educating yourself about the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol and taking these steps, you can increase your chances of survival in such an unfortunate event:
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