Active Threat / Stop the Bleed Training
This course is a combination course that include information on how to respond to an Active Threat situation and provide first aid to large volume bleeding. Participants will gain hands-on experience with how to use a tourniquet and provide first aid to someone who is bleeding. You will also learn the RUN-HIDE-FIGHT response to an Active Shooter situation. This class also offers participants the ability to ask what-if questions as they pertain to Active Threat situations. This class is open to Faculty, Staff and Students. To register, click here or contact rsr@gmu.edu for more information.
Active Threat Response
Safety is a top priority at George Mason University. Police and Public Safety and Risk, Safety, & Resilience are committed to creating an environment where everyone in our community can thrive. It is important to remember that everyone can play a role in sustaining a safe and secure campus.
If you suspect that a person is capable of causing harm to themselves or others, or observe a suspicious incident or person, report your observation to Mason Police immediately by dialing 911 or 703-993-2810. Remember, if you see something, say something.
Active Threats: Awareness & Prevention
George Mason University’s Active Threats: Awareness & Prevention Video provides:
- information on behaviors that typically precede violence,
- instructions on who to contact if you are concerned about an individual causing harm to themselves or others,
- and what do if violence does occur on campus.
This video is approximately 15 minutes long and provides closed captions (optional). To view the video, press play below. If the media does not appear, please click here. To request in-person Active Threat or Emergency Preparedness training, please email safety@gmu.edu.
Violence on Campus Response Procedures
In the event that you are notified of or encounter a person with a weapon who is determined to cause harm:
Run
If safety permits, exit the area/building immediately and move as far away from the scene of violence as possible.
- Notify others to exit the building and seek protection elsewhere.
- Call 911 and relay as much information as possible (e.g., location, description of the individual(s), and type of weapon used).
- If you see Law Enforcement, show them your hands, avoid any gestures that might be mistaken for a weapon.
Hide
If you can’t safely exit the building, the attacker is nearby or you don’t hear or see any violence but get a Mason Alert, proceed to the nearest room or a room in the nearest building and lock the door. If you cannot lock the door, block the door with furniture or equipment.
- Take cover behind equipment or furnishings.
- Turn off the lights.
- Cover door windows.
- Remain quiet and act as if the room is empty.
- Place cell phones and other electronic devices on silent or vibrate mode.
- If you are with a group of people, try to hide in multiple locations in the room. It is best not to hide as one large group.
- Only open the door if you are sure it is law enforcement.
Fight
If you are confronted by an individual with a weapon in a life-or-death situation, defend yourself and others by whatever means are necessary. This should be reserved for situations where your life or the life of others is at risk and you feel there are no other options. In these cases, do not relent until the aggressor is restrained or law enforcement arrives.
Preparedness Resources
The following resources are free and available to all university students and employees:
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns about Mason’s readiness for potential emergencies on campus, please contact Risk, Safety, & Resilience or Police & Public Safety.