Active Shooter Education and Information

The Idaho State University Public Safety Department would like to remind the campus community that active shooter events are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Individuals who survive an active shooter event generally have a "survival mentality."

Active Shooter On Campus

Here are some tips to help you develop survival skills:

AVOID (Run)

• When you hear gunshots, don't second guess the situation
• Always know multiple exit points in any building or business you enter
• Get out if an escape route is available
• Leave regardless of whether others agree to follow
• Leave your belongings behind
• Help others to escape if possible
• Keep your hands visible to law enforcement

DENY (Hide)

• If leaving is not possible, find a location to hide or remain where you are
• Lock or barricade the door, turn off the lights, stay out of the shooter's view
• Hide behind large items
• Silence your cell phone and keep quiet
• Start making a plan for getting out or fighting it out

DEFEND (Fight)

• As a last resort when avoiding and denying are not safe options, you will need to disrupt and incapacitate the shooter.
• Use improvised weapons such as a fire extinguisher - discharge or throw
• Make a plan and assign roles (some yell & scream, others throw backpacks/books, someone discharge fire extinguisher, several grab for the weapon, etc
• Be intentional and use aggression
• Fully commit to your actions and surviving

Faculty and staff must be cognizant that students are likely to follow their lead in an active shooter event.