You are on campus and suddenly you hear what sounds like gunshots.

• Would you know what to do?
• Are you prepared to react?

None of us want to think about this situation happening in our work environment. However, in light of the increasing number of shootings that occur across the U.S, we must prepare. The UC Irvine Police Department has been training for such an event for the past 5 years. The critical minutes prior to the arrival of police, where the decisions you make and the actions you take, can make the difference between surviving or not.

UC Irvine Police Department offers an in-person, 45 minute, interactive presentation workshop on Work Place Violence and Active Shooter Incidents. The presentations are tailored for faculty, staff and students and are designed to provide additional information on active shooter incidents. These presentations are available to campus community groups by submitting a request form below.

It is important to remember that active shooter incidents are unpredictable, rapidly evolving events. As such, no procedure or countermeasure can guarantee your safety. The presentation will provide you with options which are designed to increase your chances of surviving an active shooter event.

Training has proven to be the most effective preparation for survival in these situations. Shots Fired When Lightning Strikes is a 17 minute video that will provide you with the critical information you need to help increase your chances of surviving a shooting incident. Please take the time to watch and review the information in this video - it may be the most important decision you make today.

zotALERT Opt-In

zotALERT, UC Irvine’s alert and warning service, will proactively contact you to warn of situations on or near campus that may pose immediate threats, and can also provide urgent and important information and instructions in the case of other types of emergencies. Opt in now to receive campus alerts.

Read These Guidelines

If you witness any armed individual on campus at any time, immediately contact the Police Department via 9-1-1 or (949) 824-5223.

If a shooter is outside the building:

• Turn off all the lights and close and lock all windows and doors.
• If you can do so safely, get everyone on the floor and out of the line of fire.
• Move to a central and secure area of the building if safe to do so and remain there until an “all clear” instruction is given by someone you recognize.
• If you or the others you are with do not recognize the voice that is giving the instruction, you should not change your status. The shooter may attempt to lure you from your secured location. If possible call the P.D. and verify that emergency personnel are at your location.
• Follow the direction of Police Officers as you leave the building, as they may direct you to one collection point. Keep your hands on your head or open in front of you.

If a shooter is inside the building:

• If it is possible to flee the area safely and avoid danger, do so. Do not attempt to flee if the shooter is between you and the exit. If you are unsure, do not attempt to flee.
• Dial 9-1-1 or (949) 824-5223 to give your location, if possible.
• Do not pull the fire alarm. This may work to the shooter’s advantage by causing the occupants to funnel out of the building, increasing the number of potential targets.
• If flight is impossible, lock all doors and secure yourself in your space.
• Get down on the floor or under a desk and remain silent.
• Get everyone else on the floor and out of the line of fire.
• If you encounter the Police, place your hands on your head or open in front of you, and follow their instructions.
• Wait for the “all clear” instruction from an emergency first responder.

If the shooter comes into your class or office:

• There is no one procedure that can be recommended in this situation.
• Attempt to get the word out to others if possible, and call 911 if that seems practical.
• Use common sense. If hiding or flight is impossible, remain quiet. Attempting to negotiate with the individual may be very dangerous.
• Attempting to overcome the individual with force is a last resort that should only be initiated in the most extreme circumstances.
• Remember, there may be more than one active shooter.
• Wait for the “all clear” instruction from an emergency first responder.
• Be careful not to make any changes to the scene of the incident since law enforcement authorities will investigate the area later.
• In case you must flee, get far away from the shooting scene and contact the Police Department. If your building has a predetermined evacuation site, do not go there. The shooter may know this.