Active Shooter

Active Shooter / Dangerous Person

An active shooter or dangerous person is identified as posing an immediate threat to the PHCC campus. If you encounter or learn that such a person is on campus take the following immediate action:

Do Not Attempt to Engage the Person.

• If you are certain you can you can escape unharmed, do so quickly and quietly.
• If attempting to escape, do not carry phones or other objects in your hands. As you move through open/secure areas keep your hands elevated with palms visible in case you encounter law enforcement personnel. Follow any and all instructions from law enforcement personnel.
• If you cannot exit safely, seek secure shelter.
• Close and lock window, lower blinds, remain out of sight, turn off lights, take cover behind concrete walls, thick desks and filing cabinets that are away from windows and doors.
• Remain quiet, turn off cell phone ringers.
• If safe to do so, one person (if you are not alone) should call 911 and tell them where you are, where the dangerous person is (if you know), and the condition of the others with you. Follow all instructions from the 911 dispatcher.
• Do not respond to any unfamiliar voice commands until you can be sure they are coming from law enforcement personnel.

What to do if taken Hostage:

• Be patient. Time is on your side. Avoid drastic action.
• The initial 45 minutes are the most dangerous. Follow instructions and be alert. Don’t make mistakes which could endanger your well-being.
• Don’t speak unless spoken to and then only when necessary. Don’t talk down to the captor who may be in an agitated state. Avoid appearing hostile. Maintain eye contact with the captor at all times if possible, but do not stare. Treat the captor like royalty.
• Remain calm. Avoid speculating. Comply with instructions best as you can. Avoid arguments. Expect the unexpected.
• Be observant. You may be released or escape. The personal safety of others may depend on your memory.
• Be prepared to answer the police on the phone. Be patient and wait. Attempt to establish rapport with the captor. If medications, first aid, or restroom privileges are needed by anyone, say so. The captors in all probability do not want to harm the persons held by them as such direct action further implicates the captor in additional offenses.