Active Threat Preparedness at Northeastern University
An active threat is a situation where an individual is actively causing or attempting to cause serious harm. These events are rare, but knowing how to respond can save lives.
In the unlikely event of an active threat on campus, Northeastern University uses the Run Hide Fight model to help you make quick decisions under stress. This approach is consistent with guidance supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the FBI.
These actions do not always happen in a fixed order. Your response depends on your location, the threat, and what options are available. Knowing each step in advance helps with faster decision making.
RUN
If you can move away from the threat safely, leave the area as quickly as possible.
- Leave immediately, even if others choose not to follow.
- Leave belongings behind.
- Help others move away if it does not slow you down.
- Running does not always mean exiting a building. Creating distance by moving to another room or floor can increase safety.
- If going down is not possible, moving up may still create distance.
- Call NUPD 617-373-3333 or 911 when you are safe. You can also activate SafeZone for help.
- If outside of the Boston Campus, contact local emergency services or activate SafeZone.
HIDE
If you cannot run, find a secure place to hide where you are less likely to be found.
- Lock and barricade doors if possible.
- Turn off lights.
- Remain quiet and out of sight.
- Silence your phone and other devices.
- Position yourself behind large objects that may provide protection.
FIGHT
If you cannot run or hide, and only as a last resort, take action to stop the threat so you can survive.
- Act with determination and commitment.
- Use improvised items as weapons if needed.
- Work with others when possible to overwhelm and disable the attacker.
This Active Threat Preparedness video was developed through a collaborative effort of the Boston Consortium of Higher Education, including Northeastern University. It was created to provide accessible preparedness training for colleges and universities nationwide. Since its release, more than 350 institutions have used this video to support community preparedness.
Active threat situations are unpredictable. Your decisions may change based on what you see and hear.
- Assess the situation. Consider where the threat is and how close it may be.
- Act quickly, but stay flexible. Early information may be limited or incomplete.
- Plan ahead. Knowing options in advance helps with faster decisions under stress.
- If you notice concerning or threatening behavior, report it to NUPD. Early reporting can prevent harm.
Prepare yourself and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Ensure you receive NU Alert emergency messages.
- Know at least two exits in the spaces where you study, work, or attend events.
- Identify rooms that can be locked or barricaded.
- Think about how doors could be secured if needed.
- Be aware of objects that could be used to defend yourself only as a last resort.
There is no single correct response. Use your judgment based on your situation. The three options are Run, Hide, or Fight. These steps are not always sequential.
RUN
If you can leave safely, move away from the threat as quickly as possible.
- Leave immediately, even if others do not follow.
- Do not take personal belongings.
- Help others if it does not slow you down.
- Creating distance may mean moving to another area or floor if exiting is not possible.
- Call NUPD 617-373-3333 or 911 when you are safe. You can also activate SafeZone for help.
- If outside of the Boston Campus, contact local emergency services or activate SafeZone.
HIDE
If you cannot run, secure yourself in a place where you are less likely to be found.
- Lock and barricade doors if possible.
- Turn off lights and remain quiet.
- Silence phones and devices.
- Stay out of sight and spread out if possible.
- Remain in place until you receive official instructions from Northeastern or police.
FIGHT
Only if you cannot run or hide, take action to stop the threat so you can survive.
- Act with commitment and determination.
- Use improvised items if necessary.
- Work with others when possible.
- If you disarm the attacker, avoid holding weapons when police arrive.
Law enforcement must confirm the area is safe before normal activity resumes.
- Remain calm and follow police instructions.
- Keep your hands visible at all times.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Move in the direction officers indicate without stopping for questions.
- If you have a disability or access needs, communicate this clearly and calmly to officers.
Plan ahead whenever possible.
- Consider what assistance you may need during an emergency.
- Identify people who could help if needed.
- Plan to act as independently as possible, as situations change quickly.
- Contact NUPD for assistance with preparedness planning if you have specific concerns.