Active Shooter

Avoid

AVOID – Get away from the threat and to a safe place.

Find a way out:

• If you are indoors, are you near an emergency exit?
• What is between you and the nearest exit?
• Can you see the shooter(s)? Can you hear gunfire?
• If you see a safe exit path, get out as quickly as possible.

When you are safe, call the University Police (956) 882-4911 and provide the following details:

• Where is the shooter? (Which campus, building, floor number, and/or room number)
• Where is the shooter heading? (An estimated guess if not known)
• Is there more than one shooter?
• Can you describe the shooter’s appearance? Height, skin, clothing color, etc.
• What kind of weapon(s) do they have? Type of gun, multiple weapons, etc.
• Where are potential victims located? campus, building, floor, and/or room.

Deny

DENY – If you can’t get away from the threat, hide.

• Are there barriers (like chairs, tables, ladders, etc.) between yourself and the shooter?
• Can you lock all doors and/or windows in the room and turn off all the lights?
• Is there a place to hide that is outside of the shooter’s view?
• Can you move to another location if needed?
• Silence all mobile devices and remain quiet!

Defend

DEFEND – If you can’t get away or hide, fight for your life.

• Be prepared. Be confident. Be brave.
• If you can, use force to separate the shooter from their weapon.
• Attack the shooter by using any object or means necessary.
• Do not fight fair. This is a life-or-death scenario.

What to do when law enforcement arrives:

• Do not panic. Remain calm.
• Immediately follow any instructions given by the police.
• Keep your hands raised to show officers you are not a threat.
• Do not point or yell.
• If you are injured, you will receive treatment.