Don’t rule out second-story windows, or windows that you would have to break. You can survive cuts from broken glass or a broken leg from a fall. 98% of shooters act alone. If you can avoid the area where you hear gunfire, you are usually safe. Do not pull the fire alarm, even as an attempt to evacuate others. The evacuation procedures for a fire and an active shooter are completely different, and pulling the fire alarm can increase the risk of casualties as a result. [3] X Research source
If you have shoes that prevent you from running, take them off.
The one exception is a situation where you are forced to run within sight of the shooter, in an area with plenty of cover between you and the exit. In this case, running from obstacle to obstacle may be your best chance. See the section on hiding for advice on finding cover that will stop a bullet.
Hiding is the second option because it traps you in one area. However, most mass shooting events are over within ten or fifteen minutes. If you can avoid the shooter for that long, you have a good chance at surviving. [4] X Research source
One person should call 9-1-1 (or the emergency number in your region). One group of people should lock and barricade the door. One group of people should grab anything that could be used as a weapon.
If the shooter is approaching, get away from the door as soon as you can. Stay away from all doors and windows. If the door opens to the outside, a barricade will only delay the shooter for a moment. Building one may not be worth wasting time and blocking a potential escape route. If you’re in a bathroom that doesn’t lock, loop a belt or T-shirt around the arms of the door butler (the metal hinge on top of the door that allows it to open).
Use a landline instead of your cell phone if possible, so the police can automatically trace the call. If you can’t reach an emergency service, look for a ceiling sprinkler system and try to set it off by holding a lighter underneath the detector. This should automatically call the fire department.
Even small thrown objects can delay a gunman if a large group of people work together. While this is obviously a last resort, anyone who can’t find a weapon should grab something to throw. [6] X Research source
Ideally, find a spot that does not restrict your movement. If the situation changes, you want to be able to run to an exit as fast as possible.
Most interior walls will not stop a bullet.
Once again, this is an absolute last resort. Most shooters are heavily armed, and some wear body armor. Even if you have a gun of your own, you are most likely at a disadvantage.
Kick them in the crotch. This is more effective if they are a man, although it could still hurt, distract, and discourage a female shooter. If you can’t, go for their face or weapon. This will be an effective way to disarm them and to cause them a large amount of pain.
If you are wounded, wait for a paramedic or firefighter.
