Run, Hide, Fight: Responding to an Active Shooter | University Police

What to do during an active shooter emergency, outlining the “Run, Hide, Fight” steps.

What is an Active Shooter?

An active shooter is someone actively attempting to seriously harm or kill people in a crowded or enclosed space. These incidents usually involve firearms, with no clear pattern in how victims are chosen.

Such situations are fast-moving and unpredictable, often requiring immediate police intervention to stop the threat. However, because these events usually end within 10–15 minutes—often before law enforcement arrives—individuals must be ready to respond on their own.

If you hear gunshots on campus or see an armed person threatening or attacking others, act quickly. Assess the situation and determine which response—Run, Hide, or Fight—offers you the best chance of survival.

RUN: escape if you can

If there is distance between you and the shooter, evacuate immediately.
If the shooter is inside your building and it’s safe, exit quickly and move far enough away to be secure.
Leave belongings behind.
Keep your hands visible for police.
Encourage others to flee, but don’t delay if they refuse.
Call 911 as soon as it’s safe. Provide as much detail as possible (number of shooters, descriptions, weapons, and

HIDE: stay out of sight

If evacuation isn’t possible, hide somewhere out of the shooter’s view.
Choose a location with thick walls and minimal windows if you can.
Lock and barricade doors with furniture.
Turn off lights, silence phones, and keep electronics quiet.
Close blinds or curtains to avoid being seen.
If outside and unable to run, use solid cover like brick walls, large trees, or buildings.
Stay hidden until authorities signal that it’s safe.

FIGHT: defend yourself as a last resort

Only fight if your life is in immediate danger and you cannot run or hide.
Attempt to disarm or disable the attacker through aggressive action.
Use nearby objects—fire extinguishers, chairs, or anything you can throw—as weapons.
Commit fully to stopping the shooter’s actions.
Call 911 once it’s safe to do so.

After the Incident

Wait for law enforcement to escort you from the building if you are inside.
When officers arrive, show your empty hands with open palms.

Additional Reminders

Gunshots may sound like firecrackers or other noises—treat any suspicious popping as gunfire.
If in a group, spread out to avoid making yourself an easy target.
Remember: attackers may use weapons other than firearms (e.g., knives, blunt objects, explosives). These same safety strategies apply in all violent situations.
Think ahead about possible escape routes, including accessible paths for people with disabilities or limited mobility.