A group of UA police officers standing outside of police headquarters.

Ready UA: What to do in Case of an Armed Individual

If there is ever a report of an armed individual on campus, The University of Alabama Police Department will respond immediately.

UAPD is a fully accredited law enforcement agency with highly trained professional officers who are prepared to respond to emergencies of all types, including active shooter incidents. Still, it’s important for everyone to know what to do if an armed individual is reported on campus.

If you witness someone with a weapon, immediately move to a safe location and call or text 911 as quickly as you can. Stay calm, and provide as much information as you can about your location and the suspect.

If an active shooter event occurs, you must quickly determine the best way to protect your own life.

RUN — If there is an accessible escape path, attempt to leave the area. Help others escape if possible, and do not let others go into an area where there may be danger.

HIDE — If there is no way to escape, find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely to find you. Go into a room where you can close and lock the door or block the door with furniture. Silence your cell phone and remain quiet. Text 911 to let first responders know where you are hiding.

FIGHT — As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt or incapacitate the shooter by yelling, throwing items, improvising weapons or acting aggressively. If you decide to fight, commit to your actions.

To learn more about how to protect yourself during an active shooter incident, watch this video, which was produced by UAPD, the Student Government Association and the Center for Public Television.

To make sure you always receive information about emergency situations on campus, keep your contact information, especially your mobile phone number, updated in myBama. Instructions on updating your contact information can be found on the Office of Emergency Management website.

You can also receive UA Alerts through the UA Safety app. Download it for free for iOS and Android devices.

The Safer Living Guide and Office of Emergency Management’s website provide more information on what to do in case of emergencies on campus.