Run, Hide, Fight: Active-Shooter Training That Can Save Your Life

Introduction

In the grand tapestry of life, we stumble upon chapters we’d rather leave unopened. A chilling testament to this fact lies in the concept of active-shooter situations, a grim phenomenon of our time. These incidents, though statistically rare, carry a weight that sends ripples across our collective consciousness. Schools, office buildings, religious institutions, even festive gatherings – none are immune to this potential chaos. The abrupt transformation from serene routine into the maelstrom of terror that such events bring is unimaginable. Yet, the choice isn’t between cowering in fear or ignoring the reality. Instead, we’re turning towards a strategy born out of necessity and resilience: active-shooter training. Preparing to face this terrifying reality, not in a spirit of fear, but one of readiness. Equip yourself, not with paranoia, but with the knowledge and ability to respond, to protect, and, above all, to survive. It’s not a pleasant thought, but sometimes, the chapters we dread are the ones we must prepare for the most.

Active-shooter training refers to a set of preparedness and survival strategies designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively during an active-shooter situation. This type of training includes understanding the nature of the threat, recognizing signs of potential danger, and learning specific actions to take when a threat occurs. It seeks to minimize loss of life by empowering individuals to make quick, informed decisions in high-stress environments.

In an unpredictable world, being prepared for unforeseen emergencies is crucial. Active-shooter incidents, while relatively rare, are an unfortunate reality of modern life, occurring in diverse settings worldwide from schools to workplaces, places of worship to public events. Regardless of the odds, the effects of such incidents can be devastating. Consequently, active-shooter training has become increasingly relevant and vital, aiming to empower individuals with the skills and confidence to protect themselves and others during such events.

The “Run, Hide, Fight” method

One of the key frameworks in active-shooter training is the “Run, Hide, Fight” method, developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This straightforward, easy-to-remember strategy outlines the best course of action during an active-shooter situation. The concept suggests that one should first try to escape the situation (Run), if unable to do so, find a secure place to hide (Hide), and as a last resort, confront and try to incapacitate the shooter (Fight). In the sections that follow, we will delve into each of these principles, explaining their importance and offering practical advice on how to implement them.

Understanding the Basics: What does ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ Mean?

Definition of ‘Run, Hide, Fight’

‘Run, Hide, Fight’ is a protocol endorsed by many security organizations and law enforcement agencies around the world as a simple, yet effective, strategy for surviving an active shooter or similar life-threatening situation where escape is not initially possible. It instructs individuals to first try to escape (Run), if that is not possible, find a safe place to hide (Hide), and as a last resort, confront the threat directly (Fight).

Overview of each stage:

Run

The ‘Run’ phase is the first and preferred option when faced with an immediate threat. This stage involves quickly and safely evacuating the area to escape the threat. If it’s possible to do so without endangering oneself or others, it’s always the best option. Individuals should be aware of their surroundings, always know the nearest two exits in any environment, leave belongings behind if necessary, and help others escape if possible.

Hide

If running is not an option, the next stage is to ‘Hide.’ This involves finding a secure location where one can remain out of sight and protected from the threat. This could mean locking or barricading oneself in a room, turning off lights, silencing cell phones, and staying quiet to avoid detection. It’s crucial to choose a hiding place with care, preferably one that offers protection if shots are fired and doesn’t trap or restrict options for movement.

Fight

‘Fight’ is the last resort when ‘Run’ and ‘Hide’ options are exhausted or not possible. This stage involves using whatever means necessary to incapacitate the threat and protect oneself and others. It’s not about being a hero but doing what’s necessary for survival. This could mean improvising weapons, distracting the assailant, or physically attacking. Fighting should always be the last option, used only when life is in immediate danger.

The reasoning behind the order and importance of each stage

The stages of ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ are ordered based on the priority of minimizing harm and maximizing survival chances in a life-threatening situation. Running is the first step because distance from the threat is the safest option. If that’s impossible, hiding is the next best thing. It reduces visibility and makes individuals a less accessible target. Finally, fighting is the last resort, reserved for when escape or hiding isn’t possible, or when one’s life is directly threatened. This order of action prioritizes personal safety and uses escalation only as necessary, helping to avoid unnecessary confrontation and potential harm.

“Run”: Putting Distance between You and the Threat

The ‘Run’ component of active-shooter training underscores the primary survival instinct: to escape from immediate danger. This step is the first and most preferable action in an active-shooter scenario. It involves gaining distance from the threat, effectively reducing the risk of becoming a target. This strategy focuses on taking advantage of any opportunity to safely evacuate the area where the threat is present.

Practical steps for implementing ‘Run’

When implementing ‘Run,’ the following steps should be taken into consideration:

Be aware of your surroundings: Know the nearest two exits in any facility you visit.
Act immediately: Hesitation can be dangerous. The moment you perceive a threat, assess your surroundings and escape if possible.
Leave belongings behind: Your safety is paramount; personal items are not.
Help others if possible: If you can do so without risking your own safety, assist others in escaping.
Call 911 when safe: Only when you’re safely away from the danger should you dial 911. Provide them with as much information as possible about the shooter and the situation.

An example of a successful application of ‘Run’

A striking example of the ‘Run’ concept in action was during the 2018 Thousand Oaks shooting in California. A former student was able to lead a group of people to safety by using a barstool to break a window, creating an escape route. This swift thinking and immediate action under stress undoubtedly saved lives, demonstrating the effectiveness of the ‘Run’ strategy when executed properly. It’s crucial to remember that each situation is unique, and the successful application of ‘Run’ involves quick assessment of the situation, immediate action, and an inherent will to survive.

“Hide”: Staying Out of Sight If Running Isn’t Possible

Breakdown of the ‘Hide’ strategy in Active-Shooter Training

The ‘Hide’ strategy is the second phase in the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol, and it’s employed when escape or evacuation is not feasible due to proximity, the shooter’s location, or other environmental constraints. The essence of this strategy is to stay out of sight, silent, and secure to minimize the chance of being detected by the threat. In active shooter training, the ‘Hide’ strategy involves learning how to find suitable hiding places, how to barricade entrances effectively, and how to remain silent, including silencing cell phones and other noise-producing items.

Guidelines for an effective ‘Hide’

An effective ‘Hide’ stage involves several crucial steps:

Finding a Suitable Place: The hiding place should be out of the assailant’s view and provide protection in case shots are fired in your direction. This could mean an office with a heavy, lockable door, a storage closet, or even a bathroom stall if no other options are available.
Barricading the Entrance: If possible, barricade the door with heavy furniture or any available objects to prevent or slow down the assailant’s access. If the door opens outward, find a way to tie it down.
Silence: Turn off any sources of noise (including vibrating cell phones), and keep quiet. Noise could attract the shooter’s attention.
Stay Put: Do not move from your hiding place until you are certain the danger has passed or until law enforcement has reached you.
Communication: If it’s safe to do so, silently communicate with authorities. Most modern cell phones allow you to text 911 – let them know your location and any helpful details about the situation.

C. Real-life examples of when ‘Hide’ saved lives

Several real-life examples highlight the effectiveness of the ‘Hide’ strategy.

Virginia Tech Shooting (2007): Many students and faculty survived the horrific mass shooting by barricading themselves inside classrooms and offices. They used desks, podiums, and any heavy objects available to block doors and prevent the shooter’s entry.
Inland Regional Center Shooting in San Bernardino (2015): During the tragic Inland Regional Center shooting in San Bernardino in 2015, quick-thinking and bravery were on display. The attack occurred in a conference room during a Department of Public Health training session and holiday luncheon. As the assailants began their onslaught, many attendees managed to escape the room and seek safety deeper within the building. In the face of imminent danger, they sought refuge underneath tables, in bathrooms, closets, and cupboards.

These examples underscore the potential lifesaving power of effectively employing the ‘Hide’ strategy in an active shooter scenario when escape isn’t feasible.

“Fight”: Acting Aggressively to Neutralize the Threat

Detailed explanation of the ‘Fight’ component of Active-Shooter Training

The ‘Fight’ component of active-shooter training is considered the last resort when ‘Run’ and ‘Hide’ are not viable options. It involves taking decisive, aggressive action to disrupt or neutralize the shooter. ‘Fight’ is not about winning a physical confrontation but rather about doing whatever it takes to survive. It entails using improvised weapons, leveraging the element of surprise, and aiming to incapacitate the shooter long enough to escape or until help arrives.

When and how to use the ‘Fight’ strategy effectively

The ‘Fight’ strategy should only be used when running or hiding is not an option and your life is in immediate danger. Effective use of this strategy involves:

Mental preparation: Understanding that your life is at stake and mentally preparing yourself to do whatever it takes to survive.
Using anything at hand: Improvised weapons can be anything from a fire extinguisher, scissors, chair, or even a pen. Anything that can cause harm can be utilized.
Targeting vulnerable areas: Aim for the shooter’s eyes, nose, throat, or groin—areas where you can cause the most harm and potentially incapacitate the shooter.
Acting as a group: If others are with you, organize a group effort. A single shooter can be overwhelmed by numbers.

Instances where ‘Fight’ made the crucial difference

One instance where ‘Fight’ made a significant difference was during the 2015 France train attack. When a gunman, later identified as Ayoub El Khazzani, emerged from a lavatory armed with a Draco carbine, a 9mm Luger pistol, a utility knife, and additional loaded magazines, he opened fire on a Thalys train traveling from Amsterdam to Paris¹. A Frenchman attempted to restrain El Khazzani but was overpowered and shot in the back when he managed to wrest the rifle away from the assailant. The gunman then tried to fire at the passengers, but his weapon misfired².

At this point, three American friends, two of whom were off-duty members of the United States Armed Forces, decided to fight back. Despite the shooter being armed, they charged at him. One of them, Spencer Stone, put El Khazzani into a chokehold while another, Alek Skarlatos, picked up the jammed rifle and used it to hit El Khazzani. The third American, Anthony Sadler, assisted in this effort. Despite being cut multiple times by the utility knife wielded by El Khazzani, they managed to render him unconscious, thus preventing further harm to the passengers³.

This situation exemplifies that fighting back, while dangerous and a last resort, can be the decisive factor that saves lives during an active-shooter event. Remember, the goal of ‘Fight’ is to survive and protect lives by any means necessary when all other options are exhausted.

Active-Shooter Training in Action: Case Studies

Presentation of case studies that exemplify the usage of ‘Run, Hide, Fight’

Case Study 1: The Virginia Tech Shooting (2007): During the Virginia Tech shooting, students and faculty demonstrated actions that would later be encapsulated in the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol, although the protocol was not widely recognized at the time. Many students fled from the building or the immediate area when they heard gunshots, effectively applying the ‘run’ principle ⁴. Others barricaded themselves in classrooms to hide from the shooter, piling desks and chairs against doors in an effort to prevent entry, thus applying the ‘hide’ principle⁵. In some instances where running and hiding weren’t possible, individuals attempted to confront the shooter. A student named Matthew La Porte, a trained Air Force ROTC member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, charged towards the shooter and attempted to tackle him, but tragically died during his attempt to save his class. This action mirrors the ‘fight’ principle of the later-established protocol⁶. These brave actions, while unfortunately not preventing the tragic loss of life, likely prevented even more casualties and bought valuable time for law enforcement to arrive.
Case Study 2: The Westgate Mall Attack, Nairobi (2013): On September 21, 2013, the upscale Westgate Mall in Nairobi, Kenya, was attacked by four masked assailants linked to the extremist Islamic group al-Shabaab. The attack began at about noon and lasted for several hours, with the final declaration of the mall’s security made three days later. The tragic event resulted in 71 deaths and left approximately 200 people wounded. Witness accounts from the day reveal that many individuals instinctively adhered to the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ principles in response to the active shooter scenario. Immediately upon hearing the gunfire, several people in the mall began to run away from the attackers. Tragically, among them was judge and radio presenter Ruhila Adatia-Sood, who was shot and killed during her escape. Others sought to ‘hide’ during the assault. One such individual was Joshua Hakim, an accounts clerk who was shopping at the supermarket in the mall when he heard the gunfire. He hid under a table and managed to avoid detection by the gunmen. While these accounts provide clear instances of people ‘running’ and ‘hiding’ during the attack, there is no specific documentation of individuals ‘fighting’ against the attackers using improvised weapons or distractions. It is worth noting, however, that not all actions may have been recorded or publicized in the midst of such a chaotic situation. Hence, the full extent of the ‘fight’ response during the Westgate Mall attack remains uncertain.
Case Study 3: The Ohio State University Attack (2016): Case Study 3: The Ohio State University Attack (2016): A car ramming attack and stabbing spree occurred on campus, prompting the university’s Police Division to issue a “Buckeye Alert” to students and staff. The alert, sent via tweet and text, included the phrase “Run Hide Fight” indicating an active shooter situation and advising individuals to employ this strategy. Additional instructions were provided about sheltering in place until an all-clear was issued at 11:30 a.m. This protocol, developed by the Department of Homeland Security and the City of Houston, involves planning an escape route and running away from threats, hiding out of the shooter’s view and locking entries to the hiding place if possible, and, as a last resort, preparing to fight the attacker. The first officer on the scene, Alan Horujko, was able to neutralize the assailant within a minute of the start of the attack, which contributed to the fact that none of the injuries sustained by the 11 victims were life-threatening⁷,⁸.
Case Study 4: The Thousand Oaks Shooting (2018): In the tragic 2018 Thousand Oaks shooting, the ‘Run’ concept from the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ active shooter strategy was powerfully illustrated. At the Borderline Bar & Grill in California, Matt Wennerstrom, a 20-year-old regular visitor, displayed remarkable courage and presence of mind when a gunman opened fire. Recognizing the immediate danger, Wennerstrom swiftly employed the ‘Run’ strategy: he took decisive action to create an escape route for those around him. The bar was hosting a “College Country” night, bustling with patrons, when the attack occurred. As the horrific event unfolded, Wennerstrom grabbed a barstool and used it to shatter a window inside the establishment. His rapid response created a viable escape path, crucial to the ‘Run’ strategy. Once the window was broken, Wennerstrom, along with others, managed to usher approximately 30 to 35 people to safety through the makeshift exit⁹. Yet, Wennerstrom didn’t just facilitate the escape. In the terrifying moments between the gunfire, he also demonstrated quick thinking by pulling as many people as he could underneath a table, providing a temporary safe haven until they could flee the scene. His primary focus throughout this ordeal was to get as many people out of the bar as possible, an embodiment of the will to survive central to the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ strategy. This chilling incident underscores the effectiveness of the ‘Run’ strategy when executed decisively and promptly. However, it’s important to remember that each active shooter situation is unique, requiring immediate situational assessment and action. A successful application of the ‘Run’ strategy necessitates not only quick thinking and swift action, but also an unyielding will to survive. Wennerstrom’s heroic actions during the Thousand Oaks shooting serve as a vivid testament to the life-saving potential of this strategy.

Lessons learned from these case studies

These case studies teach us valuable lessons about the implementation of the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol:

Recognition of the Situation: The quick recognition of a life-threatening situation is crucial. Immediate action saves lives. The faster you decide to run, hide, or fight, the higher your chances of survival.
Training and Preparedness: Having a plan, knowing the exits, understanding how to barricade a door, or where to hide are all aspects of training and preparedness that can make a significant difference. These case studies highlight the importance of regular drills and education about the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol.
Flexibility: Each situation is unique and may not unfold in a predictable manner. The ability to adapt and transition between running, hiding, and fighting is crucial.
Communication: The ability to alert others and contact authorities while staying safe can help minimize the overall impact of the situation.
Psychological Preparedness: Mental readiness, including accepting the situation, can impact survival rates. Mental preparedness helps individuals overcome initial shock and spring into action.
Community Response: Community response is essential in such situations. A community that looks out for each other, helps the injured, and provides accurate information can greatly impact the outcome of such incidents.

Through these lessons, we learn that the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol isn’t a sequential list of steps but rather a set of options that one can use, adapt, and switch between, based on the specifics of the threat they face.

It’s also worth noting that the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol advocates for ‘fight’ as a last resort when ‘run’ and ‘hide’ aren’t possible options¹⁰. This should be carefully considered when discussing the actions taken during the Virginia Tech shooting or any other active shooter scenario.

The Role of Active-Shooter Training in Schools, Workplaces, and Public Spaces

Importance of Active-Shooter Training in schools, workplaces, and public spaces

Active-shooter training plays an increasingly essential role in today’s society, particularly in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. These areas often bring together large groups of people, making them potential targets for active-shooter situations. By equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to react appropriately during such incidents, we significantly increase their chances of survival. Moreover, active-shooter training promotes awareness, fosters a culture of safety, and encourages individuals to take an active role in their own and others’ safety.

Examples of institutions implementing ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ training

Various institutions across the United States and worldwide have adopted ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ training as part of their safety protocols. For instance, many schools now include active-shooter drills as part of their regular safety training. Companies like Google and Walmart also conduct similar training to equip their employees with the skills to handle potential emergencies. Even public institutions like libraries and museums have begun incorporating this training to protect their staff and visitors.

Recommendations for implementing this training effectively

Implementing active-shooter training effectively involves a comprehensive approach. Here are some recommendations:

Regular training: Ensure training is conducted regularly so that the concepts become second nature.
Scenario-based drills: Use realistic scenarios to help individuals understand how they might react in real situations.
Professional guidance: Consider bringing in local law enforcement or professional security consultants to provide training and answer questions.
Mental health support: Provide resources and support for mental health, as active-shooter training can be emotionally intense.
Communication: Maintain open lines of communication to encourage reporting of suspicious activity and to disseminate information during an incident.
Personalized plans: Recognize that every institution is different. Customize your active-shooter preparedness plan based on the specific needs and layout of your facility.

Remember, the ultimate goal of implementing this training is to create a safer, more prepared environment.

Criticism of the “Run, Hide, Fight” Method

Despite its widespread adoption, the “Run, Hide, Fight” method is not without criticism. The approach has come under scrutiny for several reasons:

Oversimplification of a Complex Situation

Critics argue that “Run, Hide, Fight” simplifies complex, dynamic, and highly stressful situations down to a catchy slogan. While the protocol provides a simple, easy-to-remember guideline, it may not adequately address the various nuances and complexities of an actual active shooter scenario.

Ignoring the Freeze Response

The “Run, Hide, Fight” model doesn’t account for the natural “freeze” response that many people experience in high-stress situations. This is a typical response in the face of sudden danger, especially when one is taken by surprise. It’s a primal reaction that can sometimes delay the application of the ‘Run, Hide, Fight’ protocol, potentially leading to harmful outcomes.

Inadequate Focus on Prevention

Some critics argue that the “Run, Hide, Fight” model emphasizes reactive measures rather than preventive ones. By focusing on response strategies after a threat has occurred, it may overshadow the importance of preventive actions, like identifying potential threats early or fostering an environment where such acts are less likely to occur.

Promoting a Potential for Increased Violence

The ‘Fight’ aspect of the protocol, while meant to be a last resort, could potentially lead to an escalation of violence. There’s a risk that individuals may interpret the advice to “fight” as encouragement to confront an active assailant directly, even when other options may still be available. There are concerns that this could potentially lead to more harm than good, particularly when individuals are not trained in physical combat.

Stress and Anxiety

The regular practice and drilling of the “Run, Hide, Fight” method, especially in schools and workplaces, have been criticized for inducing stress and anxiety. Critics argue that the constant reminder of potential threats may contribute to a climate of fear.

Not Suitable for All

The “Run, Hide, Fight” method assumes that everyone can physically run or fight, which might not be the case for people with disabilities or certain health conditions. Critics argue that it fails to provide appropriate guidance for individuals who may not be able to follow the standard advice due to their physical capabilities.

While these criticisms highlight potential limitations and areas for improvement, many experts still agree that “Run, Hide, Fight” provides a valuable starting point for training individuals on how to react during an active shooter situation. As with any approach, it’s essential to adapt the guidelines to the specific context and needs of the individuals involved.

Conclusion

In an era where active-shooter situations have become all too frequent, the importance of training individuals to respond effectively cannot be overstated. The “Run, Hide, Fight” method provides a clear, concise strategy that is applicable across a variety of scenarios, making it an integral part of active-shooter training programs in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. The world may be unpredictable, but we are not powerless. In the swirling maelstrom of an active shooter situation, three simple words can become a lifeline: “Run, Hide, Fight.” It’s not about promoting fear; it’s about wielding knowledge, being armed with a plan when chaos comes knocking at the door. The goal is simple – survival – and the strategy, though not without its challenges, is straightforward. It’s a testament to the human spirit, our indomitable will to live, and our ability to adapt even in the face of unimaginable threats. So, as we step onto the platform of conclusion, let’s delve a bit deeper into the mechanics of this strategy, this hard-earned wisdom from the front lines of survival.

Understanding each stage of the “Run, Hide, Fight” strategy is essential. By prioritizing escape (Run), individuals can significantly increase their chances of survival. When escape is not possible, hiding (Hide) out of sight can minimize the chance of becoming a target. As a last resort, fighting (Fight) back aggressively, with the sole aim of survival, can be the difference between life and death.

Practical application of these stages requires mental preparedness, situational awareness, and the courage to take necessary actions. Examples from real-life situations, such as the Virginia Tech Shooting, Westgate Mall Attack, and Ohio State University Attack, illustrate how the “Run, Hide, Fight” strategy can be effectively employed to save lives.

Institutions worldwide have adopted active-shooter training programs incorporating the “Run, Hide, Fight” strategy, recognizing its value in preparing individuals for these unpredictable, high-stakes scenarios. To implement this training effectively, regular practice, professional guidance, mental health support, clear communication, and personalized preparedness plans are recommended.

As the frequency of active shooter incidents in workplaces, nightspots, and public spaces remains a concerning reality in today’s world, it becomes imperative for individuals to be prepared and well-informed. ‘Active Shooter: Surviving an Attack’ is a comprehensive set of training products that provide detailed survival techniques, as recommended by law enforcement agencies, designed to help you navigate these alarming situations with more confidence and knowledge.

From concise ‘Micro-Learning’ modules and full-length online courses to DVDs and interactive CD courses, our products are designed to help employees understand and react appropriately to such threats. Our courses delve into crucial topics such as:

Preparing for an unpredictable threat,
Recognizing an active shooter and surviving the attack,
Appropriate actions when running from, hiding from, or even fighting a shooter,
Expected protocols when law enforcement arrives,
And many more vital safety aspects.

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Access our detailed course outline in PDF format for a thorough understanding of the curriculum. The ‘MicroLearning’ series offers 3 – 5 minute courses on:

Preparing for the Unpredictable,
Recognizing and Surviving an Attack,
Running from a Shooter,
Hiding from a Shooter,
Fighting a Shooter,
Protocols for when the Police Arrive.

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