Let’s face it: the idea of encountering an active shooter is terrifying, and no one wants to think about it. It’s like preparing for a surprise visit from your in-laws—no one really wants that, but we all know it could happen at any time.
So, how do you respond if you find yourself in such a dire situation? Buckle up, because I’m here to break down some serious strategies while trying not to freak you out too much.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first: breathe. Yes, I know this sounds like something your yoga instructor would say during a class where everyone is trying not to fall over in downward dog. But staying calm is crucial when chaos erupts around you. Your brain can be your best ally or your worst enemy; let’s aim for the former.
Take a moment to assess what’s happening. Is that loud noise gunfire or just someone dropping a bag of potatoes? (And by the way, if it’s potatoes, you’re probably safe.) Listen carefully and look for signs of danger. If people are running and screaming like they just spotted Bigfoot in the parking lot, then it’s time to take action.
Interestingly enough, knowing where exits are located before trouble starts can save precious seconds when panic strikes. Familiarize yourself with escape routes whenever you enter a new place—like a restaurant or shopping mall—so you won’t be caught off guard later on.
The Three Options: Run, Hide, Fight
Now let’s talk about the three primary responses recommended during an active shooter situation: run, hide, or fight. Think of these as your survival toolkit; each option has its own set of pros and cons.
Run!
If there’s a clear path to safety and it feels right—run! This isn’t a marathon; there’s no need for pacing yourself here.
Get out as fast as possible! As soon as you’re safely away from danger, call 911 and provide them with all the details you can muster without sounding like you’ve just run a mile uphill.
Remember though: don’t go back for belongings! That favorite jacket might be great for Instagram photos but not worth risking your life over.
Hide!
What if running isn’t an option? Then hiding becomes your best bet. Find somewhere secure—ideally behind something solid like heavy furniture or inside locked rooms—and stay quiet! This isn’t the time for small talk or sharing snacks with strangers (as tempting as that may sound).
Turn off lights and silence your phone so it doesn’t give away your location with those pesky notifications about cat videos (which we all love). If you’re in a group, make sure everyone understands that whispering sweet nothings won’t help at this point!
Fight!
Lastly—and only if absolutely necessary—fight back against the attacker using anything available at hand. Seriously folks; I’m talking chairs, fire extinguishers… even those fancy artisanal bread loaves from the bakery section could come in handy! Just remember: fighting should always be the last resort after exhausting other options.
Communicate Effectively
In any emergency situation—even one as chaotic as this—communication is key! If you’ve managed to escape or hide successfully, inform authorities immediately once it’s safe to do so. Provide them with detailed information about what you’ve witnessed; every little detail counts!
Interestingly enough, using text messages instead of calls may increase chances of getting through since phone lines can get jammed quickly during crises (who knew texting was more than just sending memes?). Let family members know you’re safe too—they’ll appreciate hearing from you amidst their own panic!
Post-Incident Actions: What Happens Next?
Once law enforcement arrives on scene and takes control of the situation (thank goodness), it doesn’t mean everything’s done and dusted yet—you still have some steps ahead of you!
If you’ve been involved directly in an active shooter incident—or even if you’ve witnessed one—you may experience emotional aftermaths such as anxiety or PTSD symptoms later down the road.
Don’t hesitate seeking support through counseling services offered by local organizations specializing in trauma recovery—it’s completely normal needing help after experiencing something traumatic!
By the way—I think most importantly—is remembering that despite our fears surrounding these situations occurring frequently today—the odds remain low overall compared with daily risks we face daily (like stepping on LEGO pieces).
Suggested Resources:
Active Shooter Preparedness
https://www.ready.gov/active-shooter-preparedness
Responding to Active Shooter Situations
https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/active-shooter-safety-resources
Surviving an Active Shooter Event
https://www.dhs.gov/publication/surviving-active-shooter-event
