In an active shooter scenario, what is the recommended sequence of actions?

• A. Run/escape if possible, hide or barricade if escape isn’t possible, then fight as a last resort with decisive force.
• B. Call for help and wait.
• C. Stay in place and wait for police.
• D. Disarm everyone around you.

Answer: (A)

The situation is best approached by first prioritizing your safety through movement toward safety, then using protective measures if escape isn’t possible, and finally taking decisive action to disrupt the threat only as a last resort. Escaping to a safe location as quickly as you can reduces your exposure to the shooter and gives you a controllable outcome rather than remaining in the danger zone. If you can’t escape, getting to a secure hiding place where you can barricade the door, turn off lights, and minimize noise helps keep you out of the shooter’s sight and reduces the chance you’ll be found. Only when there is no viable escape or safe hiding option should you consider fighting back, and do so with the intent to disrupt the shooter long enough to create an opportunity to escape or for responders to intervene; this is a last resort and requires decisive, coordinated action.

Calling for help should be done when it’s safe to do so, and you should comply with law enforcement when they arrive. The other options—waiting for help, staying put, or attempting to disarm others—generally increase risk and delay a chance to reach safety.