The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, responding to an increase in public-place shootings such as the one that played out at Reynolds High School on Tuesday, produced a pocket card for those suddenly confronted by an armed gunman.
The DHS tip sheet offers a point-by-point response by those confronted by an active shooter, defined as someone engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined or populated area.
Here are Homeland Security’s tips from the moment you are confronted by a shooter to phoning 911 to safely responding when police arrive:
- Evacuate: Have an escape plan in mind; leave your belongings behind; keep your hands visible.
- Hide out: Hide in an area out of the shooter’s view. Block entry to your hiding place and lock the doors. Silence electronics that could give you away, such as cellphones or pagers.
- Take action: This is a last-resort response, only when your life is in imminent danger. Try to incapacitate the shooter. Act with physical aggression and throw items at the active shooter.
Homeland security recommends that potential victims phone 911 only when it is safe to do it. When law enforcement arrives, here are the steps to follow:
Remain calm and follow instructions.
Put down any items in your hands. Raise your hands and keep them visible. Spread your fingers.
Avoid quick movements toward officers, including holding onto them for safety.
Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling.
Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating from the building.
June 17, 2014 7:17 AM