With the number of mass shootings in the United States on the rise, the Department of Homeland Security has complied emergency preparedness guide on active shooters.
According to DHS, mass shootings are often over within 10 to 15 minutes, before law enforcement arrives.
Because active shooter situations evolve quickly, DHS says it is important for individuals to be prepared mentally and physically.
Good practices for coping with an active shooter situation (via the Department of Homeland Security):
- Be aware of your environment and any possible dangers
- Take note of the two nearest exists in any facility you visit
- If you are in an office, stay there and secure the door
- If you are in a hallway, get into a room and secure the door
- As a last resort, attempt to take the active shooter down. When the shooter is in close range and you cannot flee, your chance of survival is much greater if you try to incapacitate him/her
- Call 911 when it is safe to do so
DHS recommends if you are hiding out, be sure to silence your cell phone and make sure your hiding place doesn’t restrict your options for movement.
Click here to watch the DHS active shooter training video.
More information about active shooter preparedness can be found by clicking here.