Active Killer Guidelines

Download the general guidelines for responding to an active killer situation directed towards University of Pittsburgh students, staff and faculty.

When faced with an active killer, evaluate the situation and:

• RUN if a safe path is available. Always try to escape or evacuate, even if others insist on staying.
• Encourage others to leave with you, but don’t let others' indecision slow your own effort to escape.
• Once you are out of the line of fire, try to prevent others from entering the danger zone, and call 814-368-3211 or 9-1-1.
• If you can’t get out safely, find a place to HIDE.
• When hiding, turn out the lights, remember to lock the doors, and silence your ringer and vibration mode on your cell phone
• As a last resort, working together or alone, act with aggression; use improvised weapons and FIGHT.
   

When Law Enforcement arrives on the scene:

• Remain calm and follow the officers’ instructions.
• Immediately raise hands and spread fingers.
• Keep hands visible at all times.
• Avoid making quick movements towards officers, such as attempting to hold on to them for safety.
• Avoid pointing, screaming, and/or yelling.

Pitt Police officers provide active threat response training upon request to students, staff, and faculty. To schedule a training, call 412-624-4040 or email Sgt. Paul Burgh at pab32@pitt.edu.