Your Immediate Actions Can Save Lives in an Active Shooter Situation
Team,
Active-shooter incidents have happened recently at schools, churches, military installations and more. Although these incidents are relatively rare, it is always good to refresh your knowledge about what you need to do in an active-shooter situation.
An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. Most use firearms, but other methods can include bladed weapons, vehicles or improvised explosives. These incidents are unpredictable, evolve quickly and can result in loss of life.
Your immediate actions can save lives. The speed of threat recognition, rapid communication and coordination among teams are vital. Active-shooter measures should be included in your Emergency Response Plans. Familiarity with floor plans, exits and emergency notification is important for all associates. Accessibility should be taken into consideration so associates with disabilities can evacuate or shelter in place safely.
Follow these steps if confronted with an active shooter:
- RUN – If there is a safe path, evacuate immediately.
- Leave belongings behind.
- Help others escape if possible.
- Keep hands visible for law enforcement.
- HIDE – If evacuation is not possible, find a secure hiding place.
- Lock and barricade doors.
- Turn off lights.
- Silence phones and other devices, and remain quiet.
- Stay out of the shooter’s view.
- FIGHT – As a last resort, and only if your life is in imminent danger:
- Attempt to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter.
- Act aggressively, use improvised weapons and commit to your actions. Don’t fight fair—your life is at stake.
After an incident, take accountability procedures, do head counts, secure areas and notify authorities. Associate support should be offered promptly.
As associates worldwide—whether at a BX, PX, Express, distribution center or headquarters—go about their daily business of serving those who serve, it is important to remain alert to any unusual situation. Please review this YouTube video from the FBI for more detailed instructions on what to do if faced with this type of event. You can also review workplace violence awareness training on LEX.
Active-shooter preparedness centers on teams working together through clear plans, calm communication and practiced responses. A strong safety culture—preparedness, clear instructions and compassionate post-incident support—protects lives, sustains operations and restores trust quickly after a crisis.
