Understanding the Run-Hide-Fight Survival Strategy During Active Shooter Incidents: Universal Principles Everyone Should Know

Case The active shooting incident at Debsirin School in Nonthaburi Province resulted in multiple casualties and injuries. It was a fast-moving emergency that is difficult to predict. Let's get to know the main " Run-Hide-Fight " (Run-Hide-Fight) tactics as a guideline for responding to armed attackers in schools, universities, government offices, and public places.

The " Run-Hide-Fight " principle is also incorporated in many Thai schools' emergency response plans for drills and preparedness, and it is an international standard used globally to train for unexpected violent incidents.

When an emergency arises,the most important thingis "calmness."

Although no one expects to face an active shooting, prior preparation helps you decide faster if it happens. It is recommended to observe the following whenever entering a building or public place.

• Look for at least two exits and always remember their locations.
• Notice rooms or areas that can serve as safe hiding spots.
• Understand the evacuation or emergency plan of the place if announced or practiced.
• If with children, elderly, or disabled individuals, plan assistance in advance.

Remember well! "Run-Hide-Fight" is a survival method during active shooter incidents in schools.

These preparations may seem minor, but during a real event, they reduce decision-making time and increase chances to escape, following the " Run-Hide-Fight " principles as follows:

Step 1: "Run" - if possible, leave the area immediately.

"Run" is the first and most important option if you can safely exit the dangerous area. Recommended actions include:

• Leave quickly using the safest exits, such as emergency doors or windows if accessible.
• Do not waste time collecting belongings or valuables because every second counts.
• If you can warn others without increasing risk, encourage them to evacuate together.
• Once out, do not return to the danger zone.
• At a safe location, promptly inform the police, providing your position and necessary details.

If you encounter the attacker while fleeing, try to avoid and use sturdy cover like pillars, walls, or concrete structures to reduce harm risk.

Step 2: "Hide" when escape is not possible.

If you cannot safely leave, hiding is the next option. The goal is to make it hard for the attacker to see or reach you. Recommended actions include:

• Hide in a room that can be closed or locked.
• Use tables, cabinets, or heavy objects to block doors and slow entry.
• Turn off lights and curtains, and hide where you are not easily visible.
• Mute your phone and avoid making noise or talking.
• If you must notify authorities, send text messages or communicate quietly.

Another point many may not know isdo not share your hiding location on social media or public coordinates.This could alert the attacker to your position.

If injured persons call for help from outside the room, assess safety first, because opening doors without checking may increase risk inside.

Step 3: "Fight" only when no other options exist.

"Fight" in "Run-Hide-Fight" does not mean willingly confronting the attacker. It is the last choice when you cannot run or hide and are in direct danger. The goal is to temporarily stop the attacker to create a chance to escape or wait for help.

If with others, coordinated resistance at the right moment may improve control of the situation, using nearby hard objects for self-defense. However, fighting should only occur in extreme situations when no other way to ensure safety remains.

What to do when police take control?

When officers arrive, their first goal is to stop the attacker as quickly as possible. People should strictly follow instructions, show empty hands to prove they are unarmed, and walk along routes designated by officers. Avoid running toward them or asking questions, as it may interfere with their work.

Active shootings are events no one wishes to happen, but learning the " Run-Hide-Fight " principle from school shootings is not about creating fear but aboutbeing preparedto know how to act during a crisis, increasing survival chances.

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