The University of Alabama Police Department is trained to deal with active threats on the UA campus and will respond immediately.
If you witness or hear of an active threat, such as an active shooter or a person with a weapon on campus, call UAPD at 911 or 205-348-5454 as soon as it’s safely possible.
Each active threat situation is different, so no one single procedure will work in all circumstances. You will need to make the best decision based on your particular situation. Always be aware of your surroundings as you determine how best to protect yourself.
The U.S Department of Homeland Security offers the following suggestions:
RUN
If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises. Be sure to:
- Have an escape route and plan in mind.
- Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow you.
- Leave your belongings behind.
- Help others escape, if possible.
- Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active threat is or may be.
- Keep your hands visible.
- Follow the instructions of any police officers.
- Do not attempt to move wounded people.
- Call 911 or 205-348-5454 when you are safely away from the active threat.
HIDE
If you can’t run, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you.
Your hiding place should be out of the active shooter’s view, and protect you if shots are fired in your direction. Hide behind heavy doors, furniture, or other large items. Try not to hide in an area that traps you or restricts your options for escape.
When hiding, remember to:
- Lock the door to the room you are hiding in, if possible.
- If locking the door is not possible, block the door with heavy furniture.
- Silence your phone.
- Turn off any other sources of noise, such as televisions.
- Remain quiet and try to stay calm.
- Call 911 or 205-348-5454 if possible to let police know the active shooter’s location.
- If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen.
- You can also text 911 if it’s not safe to speak to the dispatcher.
FIGHT
As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter by:
- Acting as aggressively as possible against the threat.
- Throwing items and improvising weapons.
- Yelling.
If you are going to fight, commit to your actions. Do not fight fair.
Remember: When police arrive they may not know who the shooter is. Perpetrators have been known to hide among innocent bystanders. Therefore, it’s important to obey all law enforcement commands. Officers may order everyone to raise their hands or even place handcuffs on them. This is done for safety reasons to prevent further injury and possible escape by the perpetrator.
Learn More
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Active Shooter Information
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Active Shooter Pocket Card
FEMA IS-907: Active Shooter: What You Can Do
U.S. Department of Justice Active Shooter Event Quick Reference Guide