Active shooter situations are unpredictable and can escalate quickly. Knowing what to do in these life-threatening moments can mean the difference between survival and tragedy. The A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival training provides essential knowledge and skills to help individuals respond effectively. Before facing an active shooter scenario, here are the top 10 things you need to know.
1. Awareness is Key
Stay alert to your surroundings at all times. Know the exits, entry points, and potential hiding places in any environment, whether at work, school, or public spaces.
2. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, take it seriously. Situational awareness and quick thinking can help you avoid dangerous situations before they escalate.
3. Understand the A.L.I.V.E. Method
A.L.I.V.E. stands for Assess, Leave, Impede, Violence, and Expose. These steps are designed to provide a clear action plan to maximize survival chances.
4. Know When to LEAVE
If a safe escape route is available, leave immediately. Don’t waste time collecting belongings-your life is the priority.
5. Hide if You Can’t LEAVE
If escaping isn’t an option, find a secure hiding place. Lock or barricade doors, turn off lights, and remain silent to avoid detection.
6. IMPEDE THE SHOOTER
To impede an active shooter means taking deliberate actions to slow down, distract, or obstruct the shooter’s ability to move, aim, or continue harming others. This could involve creating physical barriers, throwing objects to disrupt their focus, using fire extinguishers or other improvised tools to disorient them, or even physically confronting them if no other options are available. The goal is to buy time for others to leave, for law enforcement to respond, or to reduce the shooter’s ability to inflict harm. It is a last-resort strategy when hiding or leaving is not possible.
7. Prepare FOR VIOLENCE
As a last resort, be ready to fight back using whatever objects are available. Disrupting the shooter’s ability to harm others can increase survival chances.
8. Help Others When Safe to Do So
If you can, assist others in leaving or finding a safe location. However, always prioritize your own safety first.
9. Call for Help
Dial 911 as soon as it is safe to do so. Provide as much information as possible about the shooter’s location, appearance, and weapons.
10. EXPOSE YOUR POSITION CAREFULLY AND Follow Law Enforcement Instructions
When law enforcement arrives, remain calm, keep your hands visible, and follow their instructions to ensure your safety and assist their efforts.
Mentally Prepare Yourself
Survival in an active shooter situation often comes down to mindset. Training, awareness, and preparation can help you remain calm and take decisive action under pressure.
Why Choose A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training?
A.L.I.V.E. training provides expert-led guidance on surviving active shooter events through real-world scenarios and practical strategies. Our program equips individuals with the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in life-threatening situations.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Equip yourself with the knowledge to survive. Contact A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training today to learn more!
About the Author
Michael D. Julian is President of MPS Security & Protection and a 30-plus-year veteran of the security and investigations industry. He served as President of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) from 2005 to 2015 and has led executive protection, residential security, and corporate investigations engagements for Fortune 500 principals, high-net-worth families, and public figures across the United States. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.