Roane State Community College

Run, Hide, Fight

RUN: if possible, evacuate

If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises. Be sure to:

• Have an escape route and plan in mind
• Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow
• Leave your belongings behind
• Help others escape, if possible
• Prevent individuals from entering the area where the active shooter may be
• Keep your hands visible
• Follow the instructions of any police officer
• Generally, do not attempt to move wounded people
• Call 911 when you are safe

HIDE: find a safe place to hide

If you can’t escape, find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely to find you. Your hiding place should:

• Be out of the shooter’s view
• Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e. an office with a closed and locked door)
• Not trap you or restrict your options for movement

To prevent a shooter from entering your hiding place

• Lock the door
• Blockade the door with heavy furniture

If a shooter is nearby

• Lock the door
• Silence your cell phone and/or pager
• Turn off any sources of noise (i.e. radio, televisions)
• Hide behind large items (i.e. cabinets, desks)
• Remain quiet

If escaping and hiding are not possible

• Remain calm
• If possible dial 911 to alert police to the shooter’s location
• If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen

FIGHT: as a last resort

As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the shooter by:

• Acting as aggressively as possible against him/her
• Throwing items and improvising weapons i.e.: fire extinguisher, chair, trash can
• Yelling and committing to your actions