Active Shooter

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When you become aware of a hostile person or persons actively causing deadly harm, posing an imminent threat, or committing a violent act, you should:

1. Dial 911. Report the situation and their location.

    

2. Follow any instructions from emergency personnel.

    

3. Evacuate if safe.

   1. If you cannot safely evacuate the building, lock yourself in the room you are in.

       

4. Do not stay in an open hallway or common area.

    

5. Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm requires everyone to evacuate the building, which could place them in more danger than they are otherwise in.

    

6. Barricade yourself in the room using furniture or anything you can push against the door.

    

7. Lock windows. Close blinds or curtains. Turn off lights.

    

8. Stay away from windows and doors.

    

9. Turn all audio equipment off.

    

10. Stay calm and be as quiet as possible.

     

11. Once the police arrive, obey all instructions. This may involve being handcuffed or putting your hands in the air.

     

 

If you are unable to escape or barricade yourself away from the intruder, you must decide what action to take. 

 

1. Run: If they can safely make it outside the building by running, do so.

   1. Do not run in a straight line.

   2. Use trees, vehicles or any other object to block yourself from view.

2. Hide: Ensure it is a well-hidden place.

    

3. Fight: Use office supplies and anything around them as weapons to fight back

   1. Fight for your life, don’t fight fair.

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The FBI and other investigative bodies have repeatedly found that there is no accurate profile of school shooters. However, several clear behavioral warning signs have been identified which are cause for concern.

• Threatens harm or talks about killing other students, faculty or staff.
• Constantly starts or participates in fights.
• Loses temper or self-control easily.
• Assaults others repeatedly.
• Possesses weapons or has a preoccupation with them.
• Becomes frustrated easily and converts frustration into uncontrollable physical violence.

If any member of the university community believes that a student is an imminent risk for violent or suicidal behavior, they are directed to dial 911 immediately.

 

Students or employees believed to be at possible risk for violent or suicidal behavior, but not an imminent threat, may be referred to the OSU Threat Assessment Team which evaluates threatening students and employees and determines courses of action. To report a concern to the Threat Assessment Team, contact the OSU Police Department at 744-6523.