How to Survive a Workplace Shooting

It's an employee's worst nightmare--a workplace shooting. You've watched in horror as the news shows people running for cover as gunfire sprays and bodies lie on the ground. It's unlikely that you will ever have to deal with this tragedy, but as these shootings become more common it's a good idea to get a plan in place to survive a workplace shooting.

Instructions

1. Take threats seriously. If a disgruntled co-worker threatens to bring a gun to work or "get even" with the boss, never assume that he is joking. Be sure to contact a supervisor or manager to inform them of your co-worker's threats.

2. Find out if your work has a policy in place to deal with a workplace shooting. As these types of incidents increase, many workplaces have implemented "lock down" procedures. These safety measures can include an evacuation plan or keeping all employees away from the windows and doorways while the supervisor locks all the doors. If your employer doesn't have a current policy in place, check to see about creating one.

3. Stay on good terms with your employees and co-workers. Many of the shootings that have occurred resulted from a co-worker taking revenge on someone who they felt mistreated them. This doesn't mean you have to bow down to pressure from an overly aggressive employee or co-worker, but be sure to always be kind and treat everyone with respect. This way the attacker is less likely to single you out in a shooting.

4. Get out of the building and run as far away as possible until you get some help. If you're unable to make it out of the building, hide in a room with windows and lock or barricade the doors with chairs or tables. Stay away from the door and make sure if you open the door to let in only the police--not the shooter pretending to be help. If you are already in the bathroom and think the shooter is right outside, lock the door or hide in one of the stalls and crouch on the toilet.

5. Use your cell phone or a workplace phone to call 911. Be sure to be quiet and if you think there is a possibility that the attacker could hear you, just leave the phone off the hook. The police can track the phone and will come anyway to verify if there is a problem.

6. Hide behind something protective if you hear shooting and lie down flat. This helps to protect your vital organs and may also trick the shooter into thinking you are already dead.

7. Run away from the gunshots in a zigzag pattern. This makes it more difficult for the shooter to make contact with you. If you're unable to get away, think of something to calm the shooter down and convince him to stop. It's likely the shooter will calm down and if you are face to face with him, use all physical means necessary to fight back and survive.