In the wake of recent shootings, the City of Houston released a video last year instructing people how to survive a workplace shooting, emphasizing RUN, HIDE, FIGHT and finishing with instruction for when law enforcement arrives.
The video was funded with $200,000 in federal grants and released following last month’s movie theater shooting in Colorado, which convinced city officials to release the video early according to Houston Homeland Security official Richard Retz.
RUN When an active shooter is in your vicinity:
- If there is an escape path, attempt to evacuate.
- Evacuate whether others agree to or not.
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Help others escape if possible.
- Prevent others from entering the area.
- Call 911 when you are safe.
HIDE if evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide:
- Lock and/or blockade the door.
- Silence your cell phone.
- Hide behind large objects.
- Remain very quiet.
Your hiding place should:
- Be out of the shooter’s view.
- Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.
- Not trap or restrict your options for movement.
FIGHT as a last resort, and only if your life is in danger:
- Attempt to incapacitate the shooter.
- Act with physical aggression.
- Improvise weapons.
- Commit to your actions.
911 When Law Enforcement Arrives:
- Remain calm and follow instructions.
- Keep your hands visible at all times.
- Avoid pointing or yelling.
- Know that help for the injured is on the way.
Samuel is a writer, social activist, and all-around troublemaker.
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