In the event of an active shooter situation, what should you do immediately?

In an active shooter situation, the best immediate response is to prioritize your safety by escaping the danger zone as quickly as possible. Running away from the area allows you to distance yourself from the threat and find a safe location. This instinct to flee is fundamental in crisis situations, where the goal is to survive and avoid confrontation with the shooter.

While hiding can seem like a reasonable option in some situations, it is not always the most effective initial response. Staying in a place where you are not visible can be risky if the shooter is searching for victims. Lying on the ground may also leave you vulnerable, particularly if you are in the line of sight of the shooter. Attempting to negotiate with the shooter is highly discouraged and can escalate the situation, putting you and others at greater risk. In summary, the decisive action of running away focuses on immediate escape and is recognized as the most effective first response in an active shooter scenario.