RUN — evacuate if you safely can
Evacuation is always the first priority when a safe path exists. Leave your belongings. Help others evacuate if possible, but don't delay for those who refuse. Keep your hands visible as you exit — first responders need to distinguish you from the threat. Once outside, move away from the building and don't cluster near exits.
HIDE — if you cannot safely evacuate
Find a room that can be locked or barricaded. Lock and barricade the door with heavy furniture. Turn off lights and silence your phone completely (not just vibrate). Spread out — don't cluster near the door. Stay out of the threat's line of sight. Call 911 when safe to speak quietly. Text 911 if voice is unsafe (check if your county supports it via fcc.gov).
FIGHT — only as an absolute last resort
If the threat enters your space and you have no other option, DHS guidance says to act with aggression, commit fully, and use any available improvised weapon — fire extinguisher, chair, laptop, heavy object. Yell, swarm if others are present. This option is only when there is no other choice and danger is imminent.
When law enforcement arrives
Follow all instructions immediately. Keep hands visible with fingers spread. Don't run toward officers — let them clear the scene and direct you. Officers may handcuff survivors as they clear — this is standard protocol until the threat is confirmed neutralized. Stay calm and comply fully.
What to tell 911
Provide in order: (1) your exact location — building, floor, room number, (2) number of shooters if known, (3) physical description and clothing, (4) type of weapons observed, (5) last known location of the threat. If you must go silent, leave the line open — dispatchers can still gather audio.
Provide first aid if trained and safe
Gunshot wounds cause death primarily through blood loss. Applying direct pressure saves lives. STOP THE BLEED® (stopthebleed.org), a DHS and FEMA program, offers free public training on tourniquet application and wound packing. Consider taking the 2-hour course — it applies to any traumatic bleeding emergency.
After the event: reunification and mental health
Don't post on social media until you're confirmed safe (it can complicate rescue operations). Use FEMA's Safe and Well registry at disasterassistance.gov to let family know you're safe. Seek mental health support — SAMHSA's National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357 (free, 24/7). Acute stress responses are normal and treatable.
Workplace Preparedness
- Know your building's exits — walk the floor plan now
- Know where lockable rooms are on your floor
- Identify objects that can barricade doors
- Ask HR about your Emergency Action Plan (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.38 requires one for most employers)
- Know your company's emergency notification system
Free Official Training
- DHS Active Shooter Preparedness: dhs.gov/active-shooter-preparedness (free online)
- FEMA IS-907 Active Shooter: Ready.gov (free certificate course)
- STOP THE BLEED® training: stopthebleed.org (free in-person nationwide)
- ALICE Training: widely offered to schools and businesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Run-Hide-Fight official government guidance?
Yes. The Run-Hide-Fight framework was developed and published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is endorsed by FEMA and law enforcement agencies nationwide. The official DHS resource is at dhs.gov/active-shooter-preparedness.
Should I try to disarm the shooter?
Only as a last resort per DHS guidance — when you are in immediate danger and no other option exists. Attempting to intervene carries extreme risk. Run and Hide should be exhausted first.
What if I'm in a public place like a mall or concert venue?
The same framework applies. Identify exits when you arrive in any public venue — this 15-second mental exercise is all that's needed. Know the nearest exit, not just the one you entered through. If you hear shots, don't wait to confirm — move immediately toward an exit or secure room.