Active Harmer

At the University of Northern Colorado, we use the term active harmer instead of just active shooter. This is because someone trying to cause harm on campus may not always have a gun. An active harmer could use knives, bats, pepper spray, chemicals, or even everyday items turned into weapons. By using a broader term, we remind everyone to stay alert and prepared for many different situations, not just ones involving firearms.

If an emergency happens, the first alert you receive may only say that it is a active harmer event and give a general location. That’s because information is often limited at the beginning. Until more details come through, be prepared for anything and pay attention to updates as they arrive.

In any active harmer situation, remember these key steps:

• Run: If it is safe to do so, get away from the area immediately. Leave belongings behind and help others escape if you can.

• Hide: If you cannot get away safely, find a secure place to hide. Lock or barricade doors, turn off lights, silence phones, and stay quiet.

• Fight: As a last resort, if you are directly confronted and your life is in danger, do whatever you can to stop the attacker. Use any available objects to defend yourself and work with others if possible.

When it is safe to do so after the threat has passed, you can help others by providing aid. UNC has bleeding control kits placed around campus to help control severe bleeding until first responders arrive. Using these kits could save a life.

Most importantly, stay calm, stay alert, and follow the instructions in official alerts and from first responders. Your safety is the top priority.

You will still see the term active shooter in the below training videos. Don’t let that confuse you, the same general safety steps apply no matter what type of weapon the person may have. The focus should always be on protecting yourself and others.

Training Videos

The below videos are possible active shooting incidents that may be traumatic for some individuals, if you need any assistance please reach out to our counseling center 970-351-2496, or call or text 988 from any cell phone in the U.S. for emergent mental health support.

Videos courtesy of FBI and Ready Houston.