Long-Term Care Toolkit Annex N: Active Shooter

Response checklist

Use this checklist with the ICS command structure Guides for an active shooter situation.

• If an active shooter is in the facility RUN, HIDE, and as a last resort FIGHT.
  • If your life is in imminent danger and you need to fight, be as aggressive as possible.
  • If time permits, arm yourself with a fire extinguisher or other heavy objective to use as a weapon.
  • Reference video: Run, Hide, Fight Active Shooter Training Video for the Healthcare Environment (YouTube)
• Announce to the facility to warn staff of situation. If you have a current list of codes, use those. However, we find best practice is the use of plain language to reduce confusion.
• Assist residents and visitors to take cover behind doors, heavy furniture, or on floor.
  • Take refuge behind locked doors. If possible, cover windows by drawing blinds or taping paper in the window.
  • Lock or secure doors by any means available (i.e., barricade doors with heavy furniture).
  • Turn off lights.
  • Turn off any source of noise (radio, television).
  • Put cell phone on silent.
  • Remain quiet.
• When safe to do so, dial 9-1-1 and maintain contact with the dispatcher to provide and receive information.
• Do not attempt to move wounded victims. Notify law enforcement of their location as soon as it is safe to do so.
• Initiate lockdown procedures only if appropriate to control facility access.
• When law enforcement arrives follow their directions.
  • Put down items in your hands.
  • Always keep your hands up and visible.
  • Do not make sudden movements toward officers.
  • Avoid screaming and yelling.

For more information see CAHF: Acts of Violance in LTC