Active Shooter Strategies for the Workplace

Active shooter situations have become an unfortunate reality in many workplaces, schools, and public spaces. These incidents involve one or more individuals who are actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people within a confined and populated area. Such events are unpredictable, can escalate rapidly, and pose extreme danger to all involved. The response to these situations is critical, as even just a few minutes can make the difference between life and death. Understanding how to respond to an active shooter situation is essential for everyone in the workplace, as it can greatly increase the chances of survival.

What Makes Active Shooter Situations So Dangerous?

Active shooter situations are unpredictable and can unfold in a matter of seconds. The unpredictable nature of these events means they can happen without warning, creating confusion and panic. These incidents can escalate rapidly, with shooters often targeting individuals at random or targeting specific individuals or groups. The fact that these situations can develop quickly and involve a large number of victims makes them particularly dangerous and devastating.

Law enforcement agencies always prioritize responding to active shooter situations. Their primary goal is to neutralize the threat as quickly as possible, but in the crucial moments before they arrive, the actions of those involved in the situation can significantly influence the outcome.

Why Preparedness Matters

Active shooter incidents typically last only a few minutes. Law enforcement may take time to arrive on the scene, which means that workers are often the first line of defense in these situations. The ability to remain calm, act decisively, and follow a plan can increase the chances of survival. Training employees on how to respond and implementing a clear, well-rehearsed plan for such emergencies is crucial.

Additionally, there are often warning signs or behavioral red flags before an active shooter event occurs. Recognizing these warning signs early on can allow the workplace to take preventive measures. These warning signs include:

• Increased aggression, violent outbursts, or threats.
• A fixation on violence, weapons, or past shooters.
• A history of making alarming statements or threatening others.
• Withdrawal from social situations, paranoia, or extreme resentment.
• Previous violent behavior or behavior that seems erratic.

If these signs are noticed, it's essential to take them seriously and address the concerns with appropriate authorities.

The Three Key Responses: Run, Hide, Fight

In an active shooter situation, knowing how to respond is the key to survival. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security outlines three critical responses: Run, Hide, and Fight. Each response is intended to increase your chances of survival based on the situation you find yourself in.

RUN: Escape If Possible

If you are able to escape safely, running is your best option. The further you are from the shooter, the less likely you are to be in danger. When deciding to run, keep these points in mind:

• Always have an escape plan. Know where the exits are and how to get to them.
• Do not stop to collect personal belongings. Leave quickly and don’t waste valuable time.
• If possible, help others escape, but do not stay behind if others refuse to leave.
• Keep your hands visible so law enforcement can easily identify you as a non-threat when they arrive.
• Once you are safe, call 911 immediately to report the shooter’s location and any other relevant details.

HIDE: If Escape Isn't Possible

If escaping is not an option, your next best move is to hide. Finding a safe, concealed location can protect you from the shooter’s view. To hide effectively, follow these steps:

• Lock all doors and barricade entryways with whatever is available, such as desks or furniture.
• Turn off all lights to make your hiding place less noticeable.
• Silence your cell phone to avoid detection, and avoid making noise that could give away your position.
• Stay low, quiet, and out of sight. The more concealed you are, the less likely you are to be targeted.
• Do not open doors unless you receive clear instructions from law enforcement. Do not assume it's safe until authorities confirm it.

FIGHT: If Your Life Is in Immediate Danger

If neither running nor hiding is an option, and your life is in immediate danger, fighting back is your last resort. While it may sound extreme, acting aggressively and decisively can save your life. To fight effectively:

• Use any available item as a weapon—chairs, fire extinguishers, sharp objects, or anything you can get your hands on.
• Work together with others to overpower the shooter. Multiple people attacking together will increase your chances of success.
• Aim for the shooter’s vulnerable areas, such as the eyes, throat, or groin. These areas are most susceptible to injury and can incapacitate the shooter.
• Be fully committed to your actions. The element of surprise and determination can make all the difference.
• Don’t hesitate. The faster you act, the greater your chances of neutralizing the threat.

When Law Enforcement Arrives

When law enforcement arrives, their focus will be on neutralizing the threat and securing the scene. It's critical to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure your safety:

• Follow all instructions immediately and without question.
• Keep your hands visible at all times.
• Avoid sudden movements, as these may be misinterpreted as a threat.
• Do not point, scream, or approach officers unless instructed to do so.
• Provide any relevant information, such as the shooter’s location, the number of shooters, or descriptions of the assailant.
• Stay where you are directed by authorities and only leave the area when they give you the all-clear.

Preparing for the Unexpected

Preparation is key in preventing an active shooter situation from becoming a catastrophe. Employers can take several proactive steps to reduce the risk and ensure a faster, more effective response during an incident. Consider implementing the following measures:

Encourage a "See Something, Say Something" culture: Employees should feel empowered to report any suspicious behavior or concerns to management or law enforcement.

Improve workplace security: This includes access control measures, security cameras, and regular safety drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.

Establish a crisis response team: Having a group of trained employees ready to take action can improve response times and outcomes during an active shooter incident.

Offer mental health resources: Employees should have access to support services that can help them cope with stress, anxiety, or trauma related to the possibility of such an event.

Conduct regular active shooter training: Educate your employees about emergency procedures, including how to respond, where to hide, and when to fight back.