429 1/2 East 10th Avenue | Suite B | Bowling Green, KY 42101 | 270-781-8776
429 1/2 East 10th Avenue | Suite B | Bowling Green, KY 42101 | 270-781-8776
Recent tragedies across the nation remind us that the risk for active shooter situations is real. Taking a few steps now, and knowing what to do can help you react quickly.
Getting away from the shooter is the top priority.
- Leave your belongings and get away.
- Help others escape if possible.
- Warn and prevent individuals from entering the threat zone.
- Call 911 when you are safe and describe the shooter, weapons, and location.
If you can't run, then hide.
- Get out of the shooter's view and stay quiet.
- Silence all electronic devices.
- Lock and block doors, close blinds, and turn off lights.
- Don't hide in groups.
- Stay in place until law enforcement gives you the all clear.
- Your hiding place should be able to provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.
If you can't run or hide, then fight... which should be the last resort.
- Commit to your actions and act as aggressively as possible.
- Recruit others to ambush the shooter with makeshift weapons like chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors, etc.
- Be prepared to cause severe injuries to the shooter.
- Throw items to distract the shooter.
- Keep hands visible and empty.
- Know that law enforcement's first task is to end the incident likely passing the injured.
- Officers may be armed with rifles, shotguns, and/or handguns and may use pepper spray or tear gas to control the situation.
- Officers will shout commands and may push individuals to the ground for safety.
- Follow law enforcement instructions.
- Take care of yourself first and then help the wounded before first responders arrive if safe to do so.
- If the injured are in danger, help get them to safety.
- While you wait for first responders to arrive, provide first aid.
- Turn wounded people on their sides if they are unconscious.
- Consider seeking professional help for you and your family to cope with the long-term effects of the trauma.