Acts of Violence

An act of violence is any act involving violence, force or threat that results in bodily injury or places one in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault or bodily injury. Acts of violence are increasing in number every year. This is why it is important to plan and prepare ahead of time.

Active Shooter

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearm(s) and have no pattern or method to their selection of victims, which creates an unpredictable and quickly evolving situation that can result in loss of life and injury. Other active shooter attack methods may also include bladed weapons, vehicles, and improvised explosive devices. While law enforcement is usually required to end an active shooter situation, individuals can take steps to prepare mentally and physically for the possibility of this type of event occurring in order to save lives. 

There a few things you can do daily to be more aware and ready to respond if an incident occurs near you. 

  • Stay alert of your surroundings and environment. Always look around when walking.
  • If you see something, say something. Law enforcement is always ready to respond, don't be afraid to speak up if you see something odd.
  • Observe warning signs. Learn the warning signs for violence and watch out for them.
  • Have an exit plan. Whenever you go somewhere, identify 2 exits and hiding locations. This raises your awareness.
  • Learn lifesaving skills. Take trainings like CPR, First Aid, or others that you can find. Some of these are free at local fire departments.
  • Speak with family members about all of the ways to be more alert and prepared.

If an Active Shooter Incident Occurs in Your Vicinity

  • Run
    • If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to leave
    • Leave all of your belongings
    • Once outside, don't let anyone else enter the area
    • Call 911
  • Hide
    • If you are unable to evacuate, hide out of the shooters view
    • Lock and barricade the door
    • Silence your phone
    • Be prepared to fight if needed
    • Stay hidden until officials tell you it is safe
  • Fight
    • As a last resort, attempt to incapacitate the shooter 
    • Act aggressively
    • Throw items and yell
    • Commit to your actions, your life depends on it


Suspicious Packages

A suspicious package usually have a few possible identifiers.

  • No return address
  • Restrictive markings
  • Misspelled words
  • Suspicious substance, powder, or odor
  • Excessive postage and tape
  • Protruding wires
  • Rigid or bulky package

If you identify a suspicious package follow the steps below:

  • Handle with care, don't shake or bump it. Leasve it where it is.
  • Isolate the package and leave the immediate area. Instruct others to leave as well.
  • Contact law enforcement immediately.
  • Write down any information you remember about the package.

Suspicious or Unattended Item

It is important to always be aware of your surroundings. The video below will review what to do if you see a suspicious item.


Threatening Phone Calls

Bomb threats are most commonly received via phone, but are also made in person, via email, written note, or other means. Every bomb threat is unique. Law enforcement will be in the best position to determine the credibility of the threat. 

If you receive a bomb threat via phone:

  • Stay calm
  • Signal to someone to call 911
  • Keep the caller on the line for as long as possible
  • Be polite and show interest to keep them talking
  • Ask questions about the bomb
  • Do not hang up, even if the caller does. Leave the phone off the hook.
  • Write down everything you can from the phone call (Caller ID, exact wording, type of voice, background noise, accent, etc)
  • Record the call if you are able