Surviving An Active Shooter

In an era when senseless killing in public spaces seems to be far too common, the question is, “If you are the victim of an active shooter, will you know what to do?”

Remember these tactics: Run, Hide, Fight

Run

  • Have an escape route and plan in mind.

  • Leave your belongings behind.

  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.●Help others escape, if possible.

  • Do not attempt to move wounded people.

  • Prevent others from entering an area where the active shooter may be.

  • Keep your hands visible.

  • Call 911 when you are safe.

Hide

  • Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view.

  • Lock the door or block the entry to your hiding place.

  • Silence your cell phone (including the vibrate mode) and remain quiet.

Fight

  • Fight as a last resort and only when your life is in imminent danger.

  • Attempt to incapacitate the shooter.

  • Commit to your actions...your life depends on it.

Once you’re safe, you can help law enforcement in the following ways:

If you’re able to safely call 911, here is the information you should provide to the operator:

  • Location of the shooter

  • Number of shooters

  • Physical description of shooters

  • Number and type of weapons in possession of shooters

  • Number of potential victims at the location

When law enforcement arrives on the scene, here are some ways to assist them and remain safe:

  • Remain calm and follow instructions.

  • Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets).

  • Raise hands and spread fingers.

  • Keep hands visible at all times.

  • Avoid quick movements toward officers such as holding on to them for safety.

  • Avoid pointing, screaming, or yelling.

  • Do not ask officers for help or directions when evacuating.

The first officers to arrive at the scene will not stop to help injured persons. Expect rescue teams to follow the initial officers. These rescue teams will treat and remove the injured.

Once you have reached a safe location, you will likely be held in that area by law enforcement until the situation is under control, and all witnesses have been identified and questioned. Do not leave the area until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.

HPD Resources

The Houston Police Department has produced a “Surviving An Active Shooter” video, which incorporates the run, hide, fight principles and can be found on YouTube here.

For more information, contact:

Stephen.Daniel@Houstonpolice.org.

Senior Community Liaison

Public Affairs

Houston Police Department

713-308-3246

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