Hostile Intruder

If you are in danger or feel threatened, call 911 or contact Campus Public Safety

When a hostile intruder is actively causing deadly harm or the imminent threat of deadly harm on campus, we recommend the following procedures be followed:

  • Lock yourself in the room you are in at the time of the threatening activity.
  • If communication is available, call 911, and then call Campus Public Safety.
  • Do not stay in open hallways.
  • Do not sound the fire alarm. A fire alarm would signal the occupants in the rooms to evacuate the building, and this would place them in potential harm as they attempt to exit.
  • Barricade yourself in the room with furniture or anything you can push against the door.
  • Lock the windows and close blinds or curtains.
  • Stay away from windows.
  • Turn off all lights and audio equipment.
  • Try to stay calm and be as quiet as possible.
  • If you are caught in an open area such as a hallway or lounge-type area, you must decide what action to take:
  • You can try to hide, but make sure it is a well-hidden space or you may be found as the intruder moves through the building, looking for victims.
  • If you decide to run, do not run in a straight line. Keep any objects you can between you and the intruder(s) while in the building. Use trees, vehicles or other objects to block you from view as you run. When away from the immediate area of danger, summon help and warn others.
  • If the intruder is causing death or serious physical injury to others and you are unable to run or hide, you may choose to play dead if other victims are around you.
  • The last option you have if caught in an open area may be to fight back. This is dangerous, but depending on your situation, this could be your best option.
  • If you are caught by the intruder(s) and are not going to fight back, follow their directions and don't look the intruder in the eyes.
  • Once the police arrive, obey all commands. This may involve your being handcuffed or made to put your hands in the air. This is done for safety reasons. Once circumstances are evaluated by the police, they will give you further directions.