​Active shooter situations are unpredictable, and you must quickly decide the most reasonable way to protect yourself. There are three basic response options: Run, Hide, or Fight.

Run: If possible, immediately flee the area.

• Getting away from the shooter(s) is the top priority.
• Leave belongings behind and get away.
• If possible, help others escape – but do not place yourself at risk.
• Warn others to not enter the area.
• Do not attempt to move the injured.
• Call 911 when you are safe.

Hide: If running is not feasible, find a secure hiding place and stay out of sight.

• Get out of the shooter’s view and stay quiet.
• Find a hiding place in case shots are fired in your direction.
• Silence all electronic devices.
• Lock and block doors, close blinds, and turn off lights.
• Hide separately to make it difficult for the shooter.
• Call 911 and leave the line open.
• Stay in place until law enforcement tells you to evacuate.

Fight: As a last resort if you are in imminent danger, defend yourself against the shooter.

• Commit to your actions.
• Act as aggressively as possible against the shooter.
• Throw items and improvise weapons to distract and disarm the shooter.
• Recruit others to ambush the shooter with makeshift weapons like chairs, fire extinguisher, scissors, books, etc.
• Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the shooter.

When Law Enforcement Arrives

• Keep your hands visible, and empty.
• Know that law enforcement’s first task is to end the incident. They may have to pass injured persons along the way.
• Follow law enforcement’s instructions and evacuate in the direction they tell you to.
• Once you have reached a safe location, you may be held in a protected area by law enforcement until the situation is under control and the initial investigation is complete.

For mental health and other support services, visit the NIH Employee​ Assistance Program (EAP) ​website.​