Active threat

In an active threat situation, one or more individuals pose an immediate danger.

An active threat may carry a firearm or other weapon that can cause harm.

These situations can be unpredictable and scary. The information on this page is aligned with RCMP procedures and will help you know what to do if faced with an active threat.

Here's what to do if...

RRU alerts you to an active threat situation

The moment RRU becomes aware of an active threat situation, the RRU emergency response team will take action. 

You will receive an email with instructions that may ask you to:

Lockdown

A lockdown will be called in response to a threat of violence on campus or nearby.

If you are indoors:

  • Go to the closest room, lock the door and close the windows and blinds.
  • Lay on the floor away from windows and doors.
  • Remain there until law enforcement or the RRU emergency response team provides further instructions.

If you are outdoors:

  • Move as far away from possible from the situation.
  • Remain outside until law enforcement or the RRU emergency response team provides further instructions.

Hold and Secure

If you are instructed to “hold and secure,” it means an emergency is happening outdoors, either on or near campus. The situation is unrelated to the university community.

If you are indoors:

  • Lock all exterior doors and remain in your building.
  • Classes may take place normally, but no one can leave the building until law enforcement or the RRU emergency response team provides further instructions

Note: RRU is implementing a new campus-wide security system in 2023/24. The way we communicate active threats will be significantly improved very soon. We’ll update this webpage closer to the time the system will be turned on.

Here's what to do if...

You become aware of an active threat situation on campus

Act fast if you become aware of an active threat situation unfolding on campus:

  • Quickly determine the best way to keep yourself safe and call 9-1-1 if it is safe to do so.
  • Follow instructions from the 9-1-1 operator. Provide details, e.g., your location, information about the assailants, information about injuries.
  • If you are safe and able, call RRU Campus Security at 250-391-2525.

How to protect yourself

Review these options for ways to protect yourself in an active threat situation:

Escape

  • Leave the area only if you know the location of the active threat.
  • Have an escape route and plan in mind before you run.
  • Leave your belongings.
  • Assist people with accessibility needs if safe to do so.
  • Prevent others from entering the area
  • If police are on site, leave the building with your hands visible and follow their instructions.

Hide

  • Lock doors, close windows and blinds, turn off lights, and silence sources of noise.
  • Keep away from windows and doors and remain quiet.
  • If you can tell the violent person is nearby, barricade doorways and entrances using any means. Hide behind solid objects, like a table or filing cabinet.
  • Assist people with accessibility needs if safe to do so.

Fight

  • You have every right to defend yourself. Attack to try to incapacitate them.
  • Act with physical aggression.
  • Throw items at them, e.g., furniture and fire extinguishers.
  • Fighting an active threat is a last resort. Fight only when your life is in immediate danger.

In an active threat situation, remember to:

  • Remain calm.
  • Escape if you can, hide if you can't, fight if you must.
  • Follow the instructions of police, Campus Security and RRU emergency personnel.
  • Review this material regularly to hone your instincts in an active threat situation.