Readiness through preparedness: Active shooter response guidance Published Feb. 17, 2026 By 1st Lt. Rachel Shaffer 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah -- (Editor's note: This article is part of a series highlighting readiness.) Preparing for emergencies can make a life‑saving difference. Knowing how to respond to an active shooter situation reinforces readiness and helps protect personal safety. Clear guidance on what to do before, during, and after an incident reduces confusion and supports both those involved and first responders. Preparedness begins long before an emergency occurs. Individuals should remain aware of their surroundings and take note of potential hazards wherever they work or visit. Knowing the layout of buildings, identifying the two nearest exits, and understanding workplace evacuation and lockdown procedures are essential steps. Other proactive measures include assembling emergency supply kits for vehicles and workplaces, familiarizing yourself with local warning and notification systems, and developing a family communication plan in case loved ones are separated during an emergency. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the area if it is safe to do so. “Knowing what to do during an active shooter incident empowers individuals to act decisively and responsibly under pressure,” said Tech. Sgt. Atilla Vural, training noncommissioned officer in charge at the 75th Security Forces Squadron. “Staying informed, alert, and ready is a shared responsibility that strengthens the safety of the whole community.” Responding to an active shooter If you find yourself involved in an active shooter situation, your response will depend on the circumstances. Remaining calm and quickly assessing your options is essential. General guidance follows three priorities: escape, barricade and fight. Escape if possible If a safe escape route is available, evacuate the area immediately. Leave belongings behind and encourage others to evacuate if possible, but do not delay if they choose not to follow. Once safe, call 911 and follow the operator’s instructions. If you are on Hill AFB, inform the 911 operator and prevent others from entering the danger area if you can do so safely and without interfering with responders. Barricade when escape isn’t an option If evacuation is not possible, find a location where you can create a barricade between yourself and the threat. Choose a place that offers protection, limits visibility, and allows movement if needed. Lock or block doors with heavy furniture, turn off lights, cover windows and remain quiet. Silence cell phones and other devices that could reveal your location. If it is safe, contact emergency services and stay on the line until instructed otherwise. Important information to provide to law enforcement on the phone includes the number of active shooters and their physical description, location, the time you observed the shooter, number and type of weapons held by the shooter and the number of potential victims at the location. Fight only as a last resort As a last resort, and only if your life is in imminent danger, take action to disrupt or stop the attacker. Personnel should use whatever means possible to overpower the subject to save further lives. Use the minimum force necessary to subdue the shooter, but be aware that deadly force is authorized when an individual reasonably believes they or others in the area are in immediate danger of death or serious bodily harm. The option to fight should only be considered when no other options are available. When law enforcement arrives When law enforcement arrives, their primary mission is to stop the threat as quickly as possible. Officers may move past injured individuals until the situation is under control. When you encounter law enforcement, remain calm, follow instructions immediately, keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements. Do not impede officers’ movements, but if asked, provide any information that may assist them in countering the threat. After evacuation, proceed to the designated assembly area and remain there until authorities indicate it is safe to leave. Be prepared to provide information for law enforcement, including descriptions, locations, and other relevant details. Once the situation is resolved, continue to follow official instructions. You may be interviewed as part of the investigation. Support services will be available for those affected, and seeking assistance is encouraged. In his role overseeing security forces training, Vural stressed that preparation is essential for responding effectively in high‑stress situations. “Active shooter incidents are an unfortunate truth of our time, and the only way to save lives is to be prepared. We will be exactly that,” he concluded.