What are the recommended actions during an active shooter situation?

In an active shooter situation, the recommended actions prioritize personal safety and the safety of others. The correct approach is to first attempt to escape the area if it is safe to do so, which is often referred to as "Run." If fleeing is not possible, finding a secure location to hide becomes crucial, thereby enhancing personal safety while minimizing exposure to potential danger. Additionally, calling law enforcement is essential to ensure that trained professionals can intervene as quickly as possible.

This multi-step response is critical as it addresses the immediate actions individuals can take to protect themselves and improve the overall situation. Panic and confusion can often lead to poor decision-making, which underscores the importance of having clear, established protocols like running, hiding, and notifying authorities.

The other options, while sometimes reflective of common instincts, do not align with established best practices for active shooter scenarios. Engaging with the shooter or gathering in large groups can increase risk, while ignoring the situation entirely can lead to a lack of preparedness and response when action is critically needed.