Responding to an Active Shooter

Loading the player...

Run, Hide, Fight

Chief of Amherst College Police John Carter talks about what to do and how to respond in the event of an active shooter.

In a quickly unfolding situation involving an individual with a gun, immediately leave the area and call the Amherst College Police Department (ACPD) at 413.542.2111. DO NOT attempt to disarm someone with a gun. For those in an area with a dangerous person, remember: RUN – HIDE – FIGHT.

Run

  • Have an escape route and plan in mind.
  • Keep your hands in plain sight for your safety and the safety of responding police.

Hide

  • Hide in an area, room or closet out of the shooter’s view.
  • Lock the doors. If the door cannot be locked, block or wedge the door shut from inside.
  • Move away from windows and pull down blinds/shades.
  • Leave cell phones on, but turn the volume off so you can continue to receive messages.
  • Do not open the door for anyone identifying themselves as a police officer or other rescuer. The police will gain entrance using keys or after an “All Clear” is sent.

Fight

  • As a last resort, when your life is in danger, FIGHT!
  • Any object or substance—such as coffee, chemicals, pens and pencils, furniture—can be used as a weapon to incapacitate a shooter.