THE RISK IS REAL

An active shooter can attempt to kill people in a confined space or populated area –– anywhere, anytime. They typically use firearms and have no pattern to their selection of victims. Taking a few steps now can help you react quickly when every second counts.

PREPARE NOW

• If you see suspicious activity, let an authority know right away.
• Many places, such as churches, workplaces, and schools, have plans in place to help you respond safely. Ask about these plans and get familiar with them. If you participate in an active shooter drill, talk with your family about what you learned and how to apply it to other locations.
• When you visit a building such as a shopping mall or healthcare facility, take time to identify two nearby exits. Get in the habit of having this situational awareness.
• Map out places to hide. In rooms without windows, behind solid doors with locks, under desks, or behind heavy furniture such as large filing cabinets can make good hiding places.
• Sign up for for training such as first aid and tourniquet applications so you can learn how to help others, because you may be the only help until professional first responders arrive.

SURVIVE DURING

• RUN. Getting away from the shooter or shooters is the top priority. Leave your things behind and run away. If safe to do so, warn others nearby. Call 911 when you are safe. Describe each shooter, their locations, and weapons.
• HIDE. If you cannot get away safely, find a place to hide. Get out of the shooter’s view and stay very quiet. Silence your electronic devices and make sure they won’t vibrate. Lock and block doors, close blinds, and turn off the lights. Do not hide in groups—spread out along walls or hide separately to make it more difficult for the shooter. Try to communicate with police silently — such as through text messages or by putting a sign in an exterior window. Stay in place until law enforcement gives you notice that all immediate danger is clear.
• FIGHT. Your last resort when you are in immediate danger is to defend yourself and others. Commit to your actions and act aggressively to stop the shooter. Ambushing the shooter together with makeshift weapons such as chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors, and books can distract and disarm the shooter.

KEEP SAFE AFTER

• Keep hands visible and empty.
• Know that law enforcement’s first task is to end the incident. They may have to pass injured persons along the way.
• Follow law enforcement’s instructions and evacuate in the direction they tell you to.
• Consider seeking professional help for you and your family to cope with the long-term effects of trauma.

FOR ALL EMERGENCIES: CORAC runs a HAM radio net and Signal groups. If communication goes out for any length of time, meet outside your local Church at 9 a.m. on Saturday mornings if it is safe to do so. Tell friends at Church now in case you can’t then. CORAC teams will be out looking for people to gather in and work with.