Attacks in Public Places

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others.

Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties.
Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties.
Individuals using homemade bombs to cause mass casualties.
Other methods of mass attacks may include knives, fires, drones or other weapons.

Stay Alert. Always be aware of your environment and any possible dangers.
If you see something, say something to local authorities. That includes suspicious packages, people behaving strangely, or someone using strange communications.
Observe warning signs. Signs might include unusual or violent communications, expressed anger or intent to cause harm, and substance abuse. These warning signs may increase over time.
Have an exit plan. Identify exits and areas to hide wherever you go, including work, school, and special events.
Learn lifesaving skills. Take training like first aid to assist the wounded before help arrives.

Focus on Run. Hide. Fight.

Seek safety. Getting away from the attacker is the top priority.
Leave your belongings behind and getaway. It is more important to run to safety.
Call 9-1-1 when you are safe and describe the attacker, location, and weapons.

If you can’t evacuate, cover and hide. Find a place to hide out of view of the attacker and if possible, put a solid barrier between yourself and the threat. Do not leave your hiding place to retrieve your belongings.
Lock and block doors, close blinds and turn off lights.
Keep silent.

Fight only as a last resort. When you can’t run or cover, attempt to disrupt the attack or disable the attacker.
Be aggressive and commit to your actions.
Recruit others to ambush the attacker with makeshift weapons like chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors, books, etc.
Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the attacker.

Take care of yourself first and then, if you are able, help the wounded get to safety and provide immediate care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

Remain calm and follow instructions.
Keep hands visible and empty.
Report to designated areas to provide information and get help.
Follow law enforcement’s instructions and evacuate in the direction they tell you to.

Listen to law enforcement’s messages for information about the situation. Share updates with family and friends.

Be mindful of your health. If needed, seek help for you and your family to cope with the trauma.
Engage with your community. Know that it’s normal to feel anxious or stressed. Take care of your body and talk to someone if you are feeling upset.