“One of the most effective ways to respond to potential active shooter situations is to prevent it from happening,” says HSU Police Chief Lynne Soderberg. “While this may not always be possible, it is important to foster a community where we treat everyone with respect and dignity; strive to identify people who may be troubled, and provide them with appropriate resources.”
Since most active shooter situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly, preparedness is the key to protecting yourself and others, says Emergency Management Coordinator Jan Marnell. With the proper mindset and the necessary tools, you will be better equipped to react with purpose and maximize your chance for survival.
What you can do before
- Learn the indicators of potential violent tendencies and how to report your concerns
- Take the Active Shooter: What You Can Do course online by visiting training.humboldt.edu.
- Download the “Guidance for Surviving an Active Shooter Situation” brochure and/or pocket card by visiting: humboldt.edu/emergencymgmtprogram/active_shooter_training.php
The best way to protect your life in an active shooter situation is to quickly determine the most reasonable course of action, Marnell says. That may be getting away from the area of shots, hiding out, or attempting to take out the shooter.
1. Get out (Escape). If there is an escape route, evacuate the area, Marnell says.
- Do not go to a rally point
- Alert others
- Leave your belongings behind
- Keep your hands visible for the police
- Call 911
2. Hide out (Barricade). If escape is not possible, hide in a room where the active shooter is less likely to find you, Marnell says.
- Lock or barricade the door
- Close and cover the windows and turn off the lights
- Silence your cell phone
- Call 911 if possible
3. Take out (Defend). If you are trapped by a shooter entering your hiding place, you may decide to defend yourself and take out the shooter. This is a choice that only you can make, but it may be the only way to survive, says Marnell.
- Act with physical aggression to stop or incapacitate the shooter.
4. Respond to police. Since police have no way of knowing who you are in an active shooter situation, remain calm and follow instuctions, Marnell says.
- Put down any items you are carrying (jacket, bags, and cell phones)
- Keep your hands raised and spread your fingers
In the event of a campus emergency, three methods may be used to alert the University:
- Emergency Public Address System
- Emergency Text Messages
- Campus Signage
Once the University is alerted to an emergency and you have ensured your own safety, the best resources for additional information are:
- HSU Web: www.humboldt.edu
- 826-INFO (4636)
- KHSU Radio 90.5 FM
Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: (707) 826-5555