Newark Police: 3 Ways To Respond To An Active Shooter

The following was submitted by the Newark Police Department:       

Once again with the mass shooting in Washington DC we are tragically reminded that violence can erupt anywhere at any time. If it is at all possible for any good to come out of this and similar events, perhaps it can be letting people know the options to consider if a comparable event happens again. In the event of an active shooter remember this, Run, Hide and Fight. 

Run 

When an active shooter is in your vicinity, run. 
• If there is an escape path, attempt to evacuate. 
• Evacuate whether others agree to or not. 
• Leave your belongings behind. 
• Help others escape if possible. 
• Prevent others from entering the area. 
• Call 9-1-1 when you are safe. 

Hide 

If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide. Your hiding place should be out of the shooter’s view, provide protection if shots are fired in your direction and not trap or restrict your options for movement. 
• Lock and/or barricade the door. 
• Silence your cell phone. 
• Turn out the lights. 
• Hide behind large objects. 
• Remain very quiet. 

Fight 

As a LAST RESORT, if your life is in danger, fight back. 
• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter. 
• Act with physical aggression. 
• Improvise weapons, such as using a chair or fire extinguisher to strike the shooter. 
• Commit to your actions. 

Finally, when law enforcement arrives, remain calm and follow directions; keep your hands visible at all times; avoid pointing or yelling; and know that help for the injured is on the way. The responding officers on the scene are not there to evacuate or tend the injured. They are well trained and there first priority is to stop the shooter.