Violence & Threats of Violence

Threats of violence or dangerous situations


  • Leave the area and get to a safety.
  • Call 911 and describe the incident and those involved.
  • Do not put yourself in harm’s way to break up an argument.

Hostage Situations

  • Contact the police, if possible
  • Avoid actions that could result in further harm of you or others
  • Don’t speak unless spoken to
  • Position yourself away from windows & doors
  • Remain calm and make mental notes of the suspects

Active Threats

An Active Threat may be someone with a gun, knife, car, or other weapon. The person is indiscriminately attacking targets or opportunity. Mississippi State University recommends remembering Avoid, Deny, Defend to help your response.

  • Avoid – Get away from the threat.
  • Deny – If you cannot escape, lock or block yourself into a room. Turn off lights and your cellphone ringer
  • Defend – If you are unable to Avoid or Deny, you may need to defend yourself from an attacker. Coordinate with others and use any objects around you as weapons.