In a mass shooter incident, staff should prioritize which response strategy?

In a mass shooter incident, seeking shelter and evacuating are considered paramount for an individual's safety. This strategy emphasizes the importance of finding a secure location to protect oneself from any immediate danger posed by the shooter. During such critical situations, taking cover can significantly increase the chances of survival, as it minimizes exposure to gunfire and allows for a safer environment until law enforcement arrives or until the situation has been resolved.

Sheltering in place or evacuating helps to remove individuals from the line of fire and prevents panic or chaos that may arise in trying to confront the shooter. It also aligns with recommended practices from safety protocols, which advocate for ensuring personal and collective safety before taking any further action. This response serves to protect not only oneself but also others in the vicinity, as it contributes to overall crowd safety and order until the area can be assessed as safe.