Given the prevalence of campus shootings or reports of armed persons on campus, the following resource guide was developed to help campus employees better prepare themselves to respond in the case of an active or suspected shooter on campus. It is intended to be helpful to both staff and faculty members alike.
| Active Threat Response Guide |
In addition to the tips in the resource guide, things to consider as you plan to respond to active threat:
- If you're in an environment where students perceive you a as the leader (e.g., teaching class or leading a meeting) when a campus emergency arises, students will look to you as the positional authority for direction. Be prepared to tell them how to shelter in place (make sure their electronics are all silenced!).
- Specifically for faculty, if your campus goes into crisis response mode prior to your class meeting time, remember that you have the authority to cancel or postpone class to ensure safety.
- After an incident like this, students may feel the need to process in whatever situation they are in (during classes, meetings, events, etc.). If you feel ill-equipped to lead processing discussions, refer students to your campus mental health professionals.
- You can invite campus emergency responders and mental health professionals into your classes and meetings.
- During a shooting event (or any active threat), safety personnel have one priority: eliminating the active threat. Be prepared to ensure your own safety and security.
Additional Resources
| DHS's Active Shooter Response Guide |
| FBI Study on Active Shooter Incidents |
"Run, Hide, Fight" video featuring 3 basic active shooter response options when in the workplace
Dr. Wayne Blanchard has compiled the most comprehensive list of the largest loss-of-life- events in US history. The full website, explaining how to use these resources can be located by clicking here or visiting this site: http://www.usdeadlyevents.com/
