September is National Campus Safety Awareness Month, and at The University of Alabama, the safety and well-being of our students and employees are our top priority. The University of Alabama Police Department has developed comprehensive guidelines to help everyone stay prepared and respond effectively in the event of an active threat on campus.
Recognizing an Active Threat
An active threat can take many forms, including an armed individual or other dangerous situation. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. If you notice anything suspicious or feel threatened, don’t hesitate to call UAPD at 205-348-5454 or 911 immediately.
Response Strategies: Run, Hide, Fight
In the event of an active shooter, UAPD recommends the “Run, Hide, Fight” strategy:
- Run: If there’s a safe escape route, evacuate the area immediately. Encourage others to leave with you, but don’t let them slow you down if they hesitate. Once you’re safe, call 205-348-5454 or 911 and provide as much information as possible.
- Hide: If running isn’t an option, find a secure place to hide. Lock or barricade doors, turn off lights, and silence your phone. Stay quiet and out of sight until help arrives.
- Fight: As a last resort, if your life is in imminent danger, be prepared to defend yourself. Use any available objects as weapons and commit to your actions to incapacitate the threat.
Watch UAPD’s Run, Hide, Fight Video
Staying Informed
To ensure you’re always informed about emergencies through UA Alert messaging (text, email, phone) with the latest details, keep your contact information updated in myBama. Instructions for updating your contact information can be found on the Office of Emergency Management’s website. You can also download the UA Safety app for real-time alerts and information. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Training and Resources
UAPD offers a variety of training programs, including one on active threats, for student organizations and employee groups. To request a training session email uapdprograms@ua.edu. Participating in these programs can make a difference in how you respond during an emergency.
Get more safety tips by visiting the Safer Living Guide.
By staying informed and prepared, we can all contribute to a safer campus environment. Remember, your safety is a shared responsibility, and together, we can make UA a secure place for everyone.
Safety Reminder: UA Alert System Test
Weather permitting, the University will test its emergency notification systems, including UA Alerts, the public address system and digital signage Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 11:55 a.m.