U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) offers this guidance on how to respond when law enforcement arrives on the scene of an active shooter incident.
Understand that law enforcement’s purpose is to stop the active shooter as soon as possible, it explains. Officers will proceed directly to the area in which the last shots were heard. They may shout commands and may push individuals to the ground for their safety.
- When law enforcement arrives:
+ Remain calm and follow officers’ instructions.
+ Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets, etc.).
+ Immediately raise your hands and spread your fingers.
+ Keep your hands visible at all times.
+ Avoid making quick movements toward officers and do not hold onto them for safety.
+ Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling.
+ Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating. Just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises.
- Information to provide to law enforcement or a 911 operator:
+ The location of the active shooter.
+ The number of shooters, if more than one.
+ The physical description of the shooter(s).
+ The number and type of weapons held by the shooter(s).
+ The number of potential victims at the location.
THE INJURED
The first officers to arrive to the scene will not stop to help injured persons, says DHS. Expect rescue teams comprised of additional officers and emergency medical personnel to follow the initial officers.
These rescue teams will treat and remove any injured persons. They may also call upon able-bodied individuals to assist in removing the wounded from the premises.
Once you have reached a safe location or an assembly point, you will likely be held in that area by law enforcement until the situation is under control and all witnesses have been identified and questioned, DHS says. Do not leave until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.
