Emergencies

In case of a hostile Intruder enters the church:

1. If safe and clear exit the building leading as many out with you as the 1st priority.
2. If unable to exit safely than
   • Take cover – if you can, take immediate shelter in a room with a lockable door• Use any concealment available.
     • If communications are available, call 911.
     • Lock the windows and close blinds or curtains. Stay away from windows.
     • Turn off lights and all audio equipment.
   • Keep everyone together until the police arrive and give you directions.
   • If you hear shots being fired, do not go out into a hallway or corridor to investigate.
   • Stay out of open areas and be as quiet as possible.
   • If for some reason you are caught in an open area such as a hallway, you must decide what you are going to do. This is a very crucial time and it can possibly mean life or death:
     • You can try to hide, but make sure it is a well-hidden space or you may be found as the intruder moves through the building or area looking for victims.
     • If you think you can safely make it out of the building or area by running, then do so. If you decide to run, do not run in a straight line, and attempt to keep objects such as desks, cabinets, fixtures, etc., between you and the hostile intruder. When away from the immediate area of danger, summon help any way you can and warn others.
   • If the intruder is causing death or serious physical injury to others and you are unable to run or hide, you may choose to play dead if other victims are around you.
   • Your last option if you are caught in an open area in a building may be to fight back. This is dangerous, but depending on your situation, this could be your last option. This can be done by throwing anything you have available at the Shooter for example: chairs, books, scissors.
3. Observe and remember as much detail about the shooter as you can to relay to the police.

Emergency Action Plan

To learn more about the emergency action plan as it relates to fire, severe weather and kostile intruders, please Download the First Baptist Church of Tempe Safety Card.