Active threat

What is an active threat?

An active threat is defined by the RCMP as “one or more persons who seek out a target rich environment and participate in a random or systematic infliction of death or grievous bodily harm”.

Active threats:

  • are rare on Canadian campuses
  • are unprovoked and generally involve the use of guns
  • are dynamic, can shift locations and are unpredictable

Procedures

In the event of an active threat:
Act to protect your personal safety immediately. Your best options are to:

RUN

Evacuate if you see or hear an armed intruder and it is possible to safely exit the area.

  • Exit the area by the shortest and safest means possible
  • Leave belongings behind.
  • Tell others to leave
  • Assist others if you can
  • Warn others of the threat
  • Call 911 when safe to do so

HIDE

Follow lockdown procedures if you cannot evacuate safely.

  • Take shelter. If you are inside a classroom/office, stay there. If you are in a corridor, go to the closest room that’s not already locked
  • Lock windows and doors, refer to any lockdown procedures posted in the room, and await instructions from emergency personnel
  • Barricade the entry if the door does not lock
  • Close curtains and blinds
  • Turn off the lights
  • Stay low and keep away from windows and doors
  • Keep quiet. Put your cell phone on silent mode
  • Remain calm and await further instructions from emergency personnel
  • Call 911 if safe to do so
  • If the fire alarm is activated, remain where you are and await further instructions from emergency personnel
  • Do not open the door for anyone unless they validate their identity as an emergency personnel

TAKE ACTION

If you cannot run or hide, take other action to protect yourself.

  • Commit to other actions to delay, block or overcome the threat
  • Work with people around you.
  • Do what you need to stay alive, including using force to protect yourself
  • Look for objects that could be used as tools in self-defense

Attempting to overcome an armed intruder with force should only be initiated if your life is in imminent danger.

Lockdown drills

SFU hosts annual lockdown drills to increase awareness and familiarity of active threat procedures. If you are on campus at the time of a drill, practice the following steps:

  • Stop all classes and other campus activities
  • Take shelter. If you are inside a classroom or office, stay there. If you are in a corridor, go to the closest office or classroom that’s not already locked
  • Lock windows and doors, refer to any lockdown procedures posted in the room, and await instructions from emergency or safety personnel
  • Barricade the entry with tables and chairs if the door does not lock
  • Close curtains and blinds
  • Turn off the lights
  • Stay low and keep away from windows and doors
  • Keep quiet. Put your cell phone on silent mode
  • Remain calm and await further instructions from university personnel

Resources

Emotional support

For critical incident support visit SFU Health & Counselling.