Lockdown

Protection

1. Pre-identify interior lockdown locations. Ideally these interior locations have locking doors and no windows or windows that can be covered and/or barricaded.
2. Review with staff and faculty how to respond to acts of violence.
   • Familiarize staff with any “safe” word that is used to communicate the situation to Public Safety.
3. Identify who has the capability and responsibility to lock exterior building doors (Key or Remote/Electronic)

Mitigation

1. Install locks or devices on doors that allow the door to be locked from the inside.
2. Obtain keys to lock exterior doors
3. Doors with electronic locks can be locked/unlocked remotely.

Response

CALL 9-1-1

When you receive notice to lockdown inside a building or you decide to shelter due to a nearby outside active threat:

1. If possible, warn people outside the building to immediately enter.
   • Lockdown inside a room where the door can be locked and barricaded. Immediately close and lock the door. If the door cannot be locked, wedge or barricade it in a manner that will prevent it from opening. Once closed, do not open the door for anyone.
   • Turn off lights and close or cover any windows.
   • Remain out of sight by hiding (concealment) under or behind furniture or other solid objects. Stay as close to the floor as possible. Stay away from windows and doors so no one can see you.
   • Seek cover behind/under solid objects.
   • Silence all cell phones (not just vibrate as vibrations can still be heard). Call 9-1-1 if safe to do so and notify them of the situation and provide any information you have about the incident and any suspects. Tell the emergency operator where you are located, and how many people are with you.
   • Supervisors should record attendance within the room, if possible, without attracting attention, by name, if possible, but at minimum by making a head count. This will help ensure everyone is accounted for once the situation is resolved.
   • Do not leave the room unless it becomes unsafe to stay there. Wait quietly in your location until law enforcement and/or campus officials notify you it is safe to leave with the “All Clear” notification. This could take several hours, depending on the circumstances.

If you are in a hallway or common area:

1. Immediately enter an open room and follow the procedure described above. Do not expect people in barricaded rooms to allow you inside. If you cannot find an open room, seek any available object that will provide concealment.
2. Silence cell phones (not just vibrate as vibrations can still be heard). Call 9-1-1 if safe to do so and notify them of the situation and provide any information you have about the incident and any suspects. Tell the emergency operator where you are located, and how many people are with you.
3. Remain in your lockdown or concealed location until law enforcement and/or campus officials notify you it is safe to leave unless it becomes unsafe to stay there.

When Law Enforcement Arrives:

1. Remain calm and follow instructions.
2. Keep your hands raised and visible at all times.
3. Avoid pointing, screaming, or yelling.
4. Avoid quick movements toward officers.
5. Remember, the first officers on scene will not help the injured on the way into the building. There will be rescue teams who follow to treat those who are injured.

Recovery

1. Wait for official notice “All Clear” to resume normal activities.
   • By WSU Alert notification
   • Direct communication from first responders.
   • Telephone notification from University officials.
2. Some events (e.g., active threat, explosions, medical emergencies) can have long-term impacts on individuals. Being able to talk about your experience in a safe, supportive environment may be helpful. If you are interested in confidential counseling and referral services, please speak with your supervisor and/or HRS about the Washington State Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Student resources are available through the WSU Student Care Network.