Active Threat

Understand an Active Threat:

An Active Threat is an individual engaged in attempting to kill people in a confined space of populated areas. An Active Threat can be: 

  • Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties (active shooter).
  • Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties.
  • Individuals using homemade bombs to cause mass casualties.
  • Other methods used in mass attacks may include knives, fires, drones, or other weapons.

Actions for an Active Threat

Before an Active Threat: 

  • Sign up for WichitaFalls CodeRED: The number one way to receive an emergency alert from Wichita Falls OEM and NWS is through a CodeRED message. Visit Emergency Alerts for more information on how to sign up and keep your information up to date. 
  • Stay Alert: Always be aware of your environment and any possible dangers.
  • If you see something, say something: Report suspicious packages, people, bags, cars, and anything out of the ordinary to local authorities. 
  • Observe warning signs: Signs might include unusual or violent communications, substance abuse, expressed anger, or intent to cause harm. These warning signs may increase over time. 
  • Have an exit plan: Preidentify exits and areas to hide wherever you go, including work, school, and special events. 
  • Learn lifesaving skills: Take trainings such as Until Help Arrives, Stop the Bleed, and CPR/First Aid to assist the wounded before help arrives. 

To learn more about active threat preparedness contact WFPD for the CRASS class. 

During an Active Threat: 

Run: 

  • Seek safety. Getting away from the attacker is the top priority. 
  • Leave your belongings behind and get away. 
  • Call 9-1-1 when you are safe and describe the attacker, location, and weapons. 

Hide: 

  • Cover and hide if you can't evacuate. Find a place to hide out of view of the attacker and put a solid barrier between yourself and the threat if possible. 
  • Close and lock doors, close blinds, and turn off the lights. 
  • Keep silent. 

Fight: 

  • Fight only as a last resort. When you can't run or hide, attempt to disrupt the attack or disable the attacker. 
  • Be aggressive and commit to your actions. (This is not a fair fight) 
  • Recruit others to ambush the attacker with makeshift weapons such as chairs, fire extinguishers, scissors, books, etc. 
  • Be prepared to cause severe or lethal injury to the attacker. 

When Police Arrive:

  • Remain calm and follow instructions. 
  • Keep hands open, visible, and empty. 
  • Follow law enforcement instructions and evacuate in the direction they tell you to go. 
  • Report to designated areas to provide information and get help. 
  • Contact your family and friend to let them know you are safe. Text is the best option for emergency communication.