Unfortunately, active shooter incidents are occurring with catastrophic results all across America.

At Academy of Art University, the safety of students, staff, and faculty holds top priority.

Preparedness is key. That’s why we want to make sure everyone on the University’s campus is prepared to act in case of an active shooter or other campus threat.

1.) Keep Your ID Badge on You at All Times

When entering any Academy building, it is vital that you have your Academy-issued ID badge on you and visible to campus hosts. This ensures that the campus security team knows you belong on campus. In most cases, they’ll also become familiar with you over time, which will create an easy, in-and-out process at Academy buildings.

2.) Become Familiar with the Academy’s Active Shooter Event Plan of Action

First, call 9-1-1 and the Campus Safety Department at 415-618-3911.

Next, make the best decision possible for your current situation. If faced with an active shooter, there are THREE things you can do that make a difference: RUN, HIDE, FIGHT. 

RUN—When an active shooter is in your vicinity.

• If there is a way out, and you can get out, GET OUT! This is your best option.
• Get out whether others agree or not.
• Leave your belongings behind.
• Prevent others from entering the danger zone.

HIDE—If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide.

• Lock or barricade the door.
• Turn off the lights.
• Silence your cell phone.
• Spread out. Don’t cluster in groups.
• Hide behind large objects if possible.
• Remain very quiet and do not leave until directed by law enforcement officers.
• Your hiding place should:
  1. Be out of shooter’s view.
  2. Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction.
  3. Not trap you or restrict your options for movement.

FIGHT—AS A LAST RESORT, and only if your life is in danger.

• Attempt to incapacitate the shooter.
• Act with extreme physical aggression.
• Improvise weapons.
• Commit to your actions.
• Once the shooter is incapacitated, call 911 and Campus Safety at 415-619-3911.

3.) Watch These Active Shooter Videos

Run, Hide, Fight

Watch the U.S Department of Homeland Security’s active shooter video, “Run, Hide, Fight.” Learn everything you can about how to respond, and share this with your friends and classmates.

See Something, Say Something

Additionally, See Something, Say Something, a reminder from the Sandy Hook Promise, is a two-minute video that might surprise you.

We hope that this guide helps everybody at the Academy to be prepared for an active shooter situation. Please share this with your fellow students, faculty and staff and keep your eyes and ears open for threats.