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Active Threat

An active threat is an individual or individuals actively attempting to harm or kill people in a populated area. These incidents are unpredictable, can develop quickly, and may involve firearms or other weapons.

Knowing how to respond and being aware of your surroundings can help you make critical decisions during an emergency. If you are confronted with an active threat, remember: Run. Hide. Fight. The FBI identifies Run, Hide, Fight as the national civilian response framework for active shooter incidents.

Below are links to guides provided by the United States Department of Homeland Security. They are guidelines for action should you find yourself in an active shooter situation. Please feel free to print them for your personal reference or to share them with other students, faculty, staff members, or anyone you think may benefit from having this information.

If you are an FIU student, faculty, or staff member please take a moment to complete the Active Shooter Awareness & Prevention course. This course will provide you guidance on what to do should you find yourself in an active shooter situation. 

The awareness and preparedness of members of our community is equally important. We present this information for your use and distribution.

If you witness any suspicious activity on campus at any time, immediately contact University Police at 305-348-5911 or dial 9-1-1. Please remember “if you see something say something.”

HOW TO RESPOND WHEN AN ACTIVE SHOOTER IS IN YOUR VICINITY?
  • RUN — If You Can Safely Escape

    1. RUN.

    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 officers.
    • Do not attempt to move wounded people.
    • Call 9-1-1 or University Police at (305) 348-5911, when you are safe.
  • HIDE — If You Cannot Safely Escape

    2. HIDE.

    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).
    • Not trap you 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 and/or pager.
    • Turn off any source of noise (i.e., radios, televisions).
    • Hide behind large items (i.e., cabinets, desks).
    • Remain quiet.
    • Remain calm.
    • Dial University Police at (305) 348-5911 or 9-1-1, if possible, to alert police to the active shooter’s location, when safe to do so.
    • If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allow the dispatcher to listen.
  • FIGHT — As a Last Resort

    3. FIGHT.

    Take action against the active shooter 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.