In the unlikely event of a shooter or armed individual on campus, it is crucial to call 911 immediately or contact Campus Safety (901-843-3880). Trained to respond quickly and effectively, the Memphis Police Department and Rhodes Campus Safety officers are prepared for such situations. However, each scenario is unique, so it is important to assess your surroundings and make the best decisions to protect yourself.
The Department of Homeland Security offers additional suggestions for staying safe during an active shooter situation.
Avoid . . .
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
- Leave your belongings behind
- Help others escape, if possible
- Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be
- Keep your hands visible
- Follow the instructions of any police officer
- Do not attempt to move wounded people
- Call 911 immediately or Campus Safety (901-843-3880) when you are safe
Deny . . .
If evacuation is not possible, 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
- Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (i.e., an office with a closed and locked door)
- Do not trap yourself or restrict your options for movement
To prevent an active shooter from entering your hiding place:
- Lock the door
- Blockade the door with heavy furniture
If the active shooter is nearby:
- Lock the door
- Silence your cell phone
- Turn off any source of noise (i.e., radios, televisions)
- Hide behind large items (i.e., cabinets, desks)
- Remain quiet
If evacuation and hiding out are not possible:
- Remain calm
- Dial 911 immediately or contact Campus Safety (901-843-3880) if possible to alert police of the active shooter’s location
- If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen
Defend . . .
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 him/her
- Throwing items and improvising weapons
- Yelling
- Committing to your actions
When calling the police, attempt to provide the following information:
- Building/Site Name and location
- Your name and phone number
- The exact location and number of shooters, if known
- Description of the shooter, type of weapon, number of hostages, if any
- Number and location of injured persons
How to react when law enforcement arrives:
- Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions
- Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets)
- Immediately raise hands and spread fingers
- Keep hands visible at all times
- Avoid making quick movements toward officers such as holding on to them for safety
- Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling
- Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises