The University of Houston Police Department (UHPD) continues to enhance its emergency communications in light of the recent shootings at Virginia Tech University. The department has posted on its Web site a check list on what faculty, staff and students should do in a shooting situation.

“We have our internal procedure about how we would respond to shootings, but we thought it would be a good idea to communicate what people should do to protect themselves,” said Malcolm Davis, UH chief of police and executive director of public safety. “We also want the campus community to understand that UHPD’s first objective is to find and engage the shooter in order for evacuations and medical treatment to take place.”

The check list covers topics such as contacting authorities, securing an area and reporting the shooting.

The check list recommends calling 911 to report the emergency and to provide specific details such as building name, office and room number and description of assailant. The check list also offers guidelines on when to leave a secure area.

“Many people often ask the question — should I flee or do I stay?” Davis said. “Unless you know where the shooter is located, it is better to stay in place.”

Davis urged faculty, staff and students to the review and print the check list available at http://www.uh.edu/police/information/active_shooter.html.

Francine Parker
fparker@central.uh.edu