Active Shooter Event Protocol

Campus security and personal safety are of the highest priority at Stevens. Active shooter events happen suddenly and are unpredictable, however, there are measures that can be taken to protect yourself and others around you.

The Stevens Campus Police Department conducts Active Shooter Training for all incoming students at the beginning of the semester and to new faculty and staff hires during the onboarding process. Refresher training is also provided on an annual basis. Anyone who has questions about this training, or who wishes to have a presentation tailored to a specific group may do so by contacting Stevens Campus Police Deputy Chief Robert DiGenova.

What to Do if an Active Shooter Event Takes Place on Campus

AVOID-DENY-DEFEND

Immediately upon hearing what may sound like gunshots, or after being advised by others that an active shooter event is taking place and only if it is safe to do so, exit the building and seek shelter away from the area. Exiting the room or building should only be done if you can safely navigate your way out without being confronted by the shooter. Once you are safe, take the following steps:

  1. Notify anyone you may encounter to avoid entering the building immediately.

  2. Encourage anyone who may safely exit the building to do so.

  3. Evacuate to a safe area away from the danger and take protective cover. Stay there until assistance arrives.

  4. Call the Stevens Campus Police Department at 201-216-3911 or dial 911, and provide the dispatcher with the following information:

    • Your name.

    • The location where you believe the incident is taking place (be as specific as possible).

    • Number of shooters (if known).

    • Identification or description of shooter(s).

    • Your exact location.

    • The number of people injured (if known).

  5. Individuals not immediately impacted by the situation should take protective cover, staying away from windows and doors until notified otherwise. 

SHELTER-IN-PLACE

Take the following actions if you can't safely exit the building:

  1. Go to the nearest room or office.

  2. Close and lock the door, if possible.

  3. Turn off the lights.

  4. Seek protective cover.

  5. Put your cellphone on silent (turn off vibrate mode). Keep quiet to give the appearance that no one is in the room.

  6. Do not answer the door unless you are absolutely certain it is the police.

  7. Notify the Stevens Campus Police Department at 201-216-3911 or dial 911 if it is safe to do so, providing the dispatcher with the following information:

    • Your name. 

    • Your location (be as specific as possible).

    • Number of shooters (if known).

    • Identification or description of shooter.

    • Number of injured parties and their location if known.

    • Wait for police to assist you out of the building.

Stevens Alerts

The Stevens Campus Police Department, along with surrounding municipal police departments, are trained and equipped to respond to an emergency incident involving an active shooter. Stevens Campus Police will evaluate any situation on an ongoing basis to determine the best course of action and will notify the community through the Stevens Alerts system with emergency information as promptly as possible.

All members of the Stevens community are strongly encouraged to register their current cell phone with the Stevens Alerts system.