← Threat mapOutside · approachStarts at Level 4 · Emergency
Active threat approaching
An armed or violent person moving toward the entrance.
What it looks like
- Someone advancing with a weapon visible or hand fixed under clothing
- Running toward, not away from, the building
- Earlier threats, fixation, or a grievance now acting out
Before — design it out
- Keep one controlled entrance; lock or staff the rest
- Greeters facing outward who can see the approach
- A fast way to signal 'lock down now' to the whole team
During — what staff do
- Call 911. Lock the entrance if it's safe to reach
- Move people away from the threat — out a far exit or into a lockable room
- Get out / hide / as a last resort defend; do not go toward it
Based on
Reputable references this guidance aligns with — confirm against your jurisdiction and your venue's own procedures.
Remember the spine. Notice → report quietly → let trained security assess. For immediate danger, call 911 first.