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The University of Winnipeg

Active Shooter/Threat

The RCMP defines an “Active Threat” as a situation where one or more persons who seek out a target rich environment and participate in a random or systematic infliction of death or grievous bodily harm.

Should Security Services become aware of an intrusion by an armed person with aggressive intentions against university personnel, students or visitors, Security will take the following actions:

  • Contact 911 to report the number of intruders as well as any types of weapons involved and whether or not people have been injured.
  • Security Services will broadcast “Active Threat” over the PA System and an alert will be sent out over the UWSafe App.
  • May Mobilize the University Emergency Operation Center.
  • Security Services will take steps to isolate the threat and evacuate people as safely as possible.
  • Deliver first aid treatment if it can be provided without putting anyone in danger.

BE PREPARED

  • Remember these three steps to protect yourself: RUN -> HIDE -> FIGHT. 
  • If confronted directly by an Active Threat, Fight actively for your life. 
  • Acting as a group will greatly increase your chances of success.

Do NOT activate the fire alarm.

RUN! – evacuate the building as fast and safely as you can.

  • If confronted while trying to evacuate FIGHT! for your life.
  • Do not congregate at a muster point or open/visible location.
  • Do not stop to look for people.
  •  Do not hesitate, collect, or grab belongings.
  •  Do not use elevators.

If the threat is nearby and running is not a safe option:

HIDE! – Stay Calm

  • Do NOT activate the fire alarm. Do not stay in corridors, do not take the elevators.
  • Quickly find a room to lock yourself in. If the room cannot be locked, barricade it with furniture. If the room has no door, hide under desk or where you cannot be seen.
  • If you are in a washroom, lock the door. If the door cannot be locked hide in a stall and lock the door to the stall.
  • If time permits, close blinds, turn off lights, and computer monitors.
  • Move to a safe corner to reduce visibility. Keep away from windows and remain close to the floor.
  • Keep phones on silent to avoid detection.
  • If you hear what sounds like gun shots, do not investigate.
  • Dial 911, if possible, to alert police to the active threat’s location.
  • If you cannot speak, leave the telephone line open to allow the Dispatcher to listen.
  • Wait for Police Officers and Security Services to clear each area and notify you when it is safe to evacuate.
  • Make sure your hands are clearly visible and avoid brisk movements.
  • Follow orders and be available to provide a statement.

FIGHT!

If you find yourself trapped by an intruder or come across an intruder while running your best course of action in preserving your well being is to FIGHT!

If you are found while hiding – FIGHT!

  • An armed intruder is not here to be nice.
  • An armed intruder’s intent is to inflict harm.
  • It is not always known who they want to harm or why.
  • The intent of armed intruders is seldom to negotiate.