Dealing with an Armed Confrontation on Campus: Student Survival Strategies
How to Act in a School Shooting Scenario: Expert Tips
Lately, the thought of a school shooting may have crossed the minds of many students across Bremen, Germany. After a tragic event in Graz left ten dead, it's natural to wonder how to react in such a alarming situation. Let's hear from Peer-Niclas Unger, a school shooting prevention expert, on what steps students should take.
So, Mr. Unger, what's the first thing a student should do in a school shooting?
In such a critical situation, my advice would be simple: Follow your teacher’s instructions. If they tell you to stay put, do exactly that. If they ask you to follow them, don’t hesitate. Your location plays an important role – whether you're in a classroom with a lockable door or outside during break. In the latter case, shots may suddenly ring out, causing fear among students.
And what should students absolutely avoid doing in such a scenario?
Well, drawing out your phone to record the incident or sharing it online would be a grave mistake. Nonchalantly dismissing the severity of the situation is not an option. There's no doubt these videos from the Graz incident, capturing people's panic and fear, are circulating online now. Instead, focus on your safety.
Are schools, universities, and workplaces adequately secure?
The level of security varies from place to place, depending on factors like educational policies. Some locations prioritize emergency planning, while others lean toward neglect. Just remember, awareness among educators regarding the risks is on the rise.
Is it effective to prepare for such catastrophes, or might it give the perpetrators insight into our defenses?
That's a tricky question. Annually practicing school shooting scenarios like fire drills isn't advisable, as it could potentially let the perpetrator know about our vulnerable spots. However, engaging teaching staff in preparedness training is critical. By practicing, teachers can help students stay safe and calm during a crisis.
Can we truly protect ourselves from a school shooting?
It's important to recognize warning signs and equip ourselves with the ability to identify them. As a teacher, I can't prevent a school shooting, but I can do everything in my power to guide students to safety if such an unfortunate event happens.
This interview was conducted by Matze Hoppe for Bremen Vier, written, and edited by Jean-Pierre Fellmer.
Enrichment Data:
- Stay Calm and Alert: Remaining calm and aware of your surroundings is essential to making wise decisions during a crisis.
- Follow Instructions: Rely on the guidance provided by teachers and emergency responders to optimize your chances of safety.
- Silent Panic Alarms: Some schools have silent panic alarms that rapidly inform authorities about the emergency in a discreet manner. Check your school's protocols for how to use one.
- Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with your school's emergency procedures and participate in drills to ensure you're prepared for any eventuality.
- Seek Help After the Incident: After the immediate danger has passed, it's important to reach out to mental health resources to address any emotional trauma experienced.
- In an interview with Radio Bremen, school shooting prevention expert Peer-Niclas Unger emphasizes the importance of education-and-self-development when it comes to handling a school shooting scenario. He advises students to stay calm and alert, following their teacher's instructions, and avoiding actions such as recording or sharing the incident on their phones, as they might compromise their safety.
- Unger also notes the role of politics and general-news in school shootings, as he discusses the importance of implementing adequate security measures, engaging educators in preparedness training, and being informed about emergency procedures, to minimize the risks and prepare for any eventuality. He also highlights the need for continuous awareness, encouraging students and teachers to stay informed and be equipped with the ability to identify warning signs and act accordingly.
