At Irvine Valley College, we believe in hoping for the best, but also preparing for the worst. Although it’s critical we give advance thought on how to respond to an active shooter event, the prevention of it occurring is invariably the best possible scenario. If you hear or see something that may lead to an active shooter or otherwise violent situation, please call 9-1-1 immediately to alert the police. Trust your gut feeling. The life you save could be your own.
- Have an escape route and plan in mind.
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Help others escape if possible.
- Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be.
- Follow the instructions of police officers.
- Do not attempt to move wounded people.
- Remain out of the active shooter’s view.
- Your hideout should provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e. an office with a closed and locked door).
- Blockade the door with heavy furniture and turn off the lights.
- Your location shouldn’t trap you or restrict your options for movement.
- Remain quiet and do not answer the door until emergency personnel arrive.
As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, you may choose to attempt to take the active shooter down:
- Act aggressively against him/her.
- Throw items and improvise weapons.
- Yell and fight.
- Commit to your actions and follow through.