What to do if there is a shooting on campus

In 2012, Crime and Law Enforcement Data reported a total of eight school shootings in the United States. Only one month into 2013, shootings have already occurred at Taft High School in California, as well as Lone Star College in Texas.

Illinois is not a stranger to these violent attacks, as it was only five years ago a gunman opened fire on students at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, killing five and wounding 17 more.

The idea of such a tragedy striking the campus of Governors State University is something no one wants to imagine. How do you react to the sound of gunshots across campus? For students, teachers, and faculty alike, it is an important plan to consider.

"I'm not sure that's a question a lot of teachers have thought about," said Carol P. Milhous, Client Relations Representative and Adjunct Faculty. "I can't accurately say what I would and would not do in that situation. I would do the best I could and hope for the best."

Tom Oleshko, a Media Communications major, believes that all the guidelines in the world aren't going to stop a shooting from happening. "If I'm there, I'd just try to get everyone out of the school as fast as possible," said Oleshko.

Public Relations major Krista Uppstad thinks that it would be a good idea for the university to go through a drill. "I feel like you have an idea of how you would react in that situation until you are actually put in it," said Uppstad "If I heard gunshots, my first thought would be to call 911."

According to the Department of Homeland Security, in an active shooter situation you should evacuate, hide out, or take action. Always be aware of your surroundings, and if there is an accessible escape path, take it.

If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide. Your hiding place should be out of the shooter's view, provide protection, and not trap you or restrict your movement. If possible, lock the door or blockade it with furniture, and close, cover, and move away from windows.

Silence your cell phone, and call 911 when it is safe to do so. As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, should you attempt to take action against the shooter.

A school shooting is something that is nearly impossible to predict, but University Park Police Sergeant Darryl Stroud assures that the department has a plan. "There are protocols in place that we are trained on and we will act accordingly", said Stroud.

As scary as it may be, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and have a plan in place.

"It's scary, but it's real," said Uppstad "Anyone could walk in here at any time."