Armed Intruder

Before

• Watch Duke’s active shooter training video: What if... Shots Fired (netID login required).
• Identify multiple escape routes from your normal places of work or study.
• Identify locations in which you can hide if necessary. Look for places with locking doors and window blinds or covers.
• Understand the plans for individuals with disabilities or other needs.
• Participate in an armed intruder training with Duke Police.
• Participate in a hemorrhage control training.

During

If an armed intruder alert has been issued, use the following steps to protect yourself:

• Get Out – leave your belongings behind, have an escape route and plan in mind, and keep your hands visible to law enforcement.
• Hide Out – hide out of sight from the assailant and block entry and sight into your hiding place.
• Take Out – As a last resort, attempt to incapacitate the assailant by acting with physical aggression or throwing items.
• Call 911 only when it is safe for you to do so.

After

• Follow the instructions of law enforcement officers when leaving the area. Keep your hands visible and remain calm.

• Aid the wounded only if it is safe for you to do so and you are able to help.
• Understand that affected areas may be a crime scene and access to retrieve personal belongings or to resume normal operations may be severely limited.
• Seek out professional counseling services if needed. For students, Counseling and Psychological Services offer crisis counseling. For faculty and staff, the Personal Assistance Service offers similar services.

Additional Resources

• Responding to an Active Shooter Situation: Run, Hide, Fight (FBI)
• How to Respond to an Active Shooter (DHS)
• Ready.gov’s Active Shooter Guide