Active Shooter Event Protocol

Campus security and personal safety are top priorities at Stevens. It is essential that we remain vigilant and informed. Frequent active shooter and "swatting" incidents across the country require Stevens to frequently reinforce the university's preparedness protocols for these types of situations. This ensures the safety and well-being of our community.

Active shooter events happen suddenly and are unpredictable; however, there are measures you can take to protect yourself and those around you.

Report Suspicious Behavior

Immediately notify Stevens Campus Police of any concerning activity at 201-216-3911 or via Stevens (Rave) Guardian.

Active Shooter Training

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.

Employee Training

Student Training: Log in to myStevens. Select the Vector Solutions tile. Select a course title to begin the training.

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

AVOID-DENY-DEFEND

Stevens' active shooter protocols follow the nationally recognized AVOID-DENY-DEFEND strategy. The procedures outlined below are designed to help students and employees respond calmly and effectively in the event of a threat.

AVOID: If possible, evacuate the area quickly and safely.

DENY: If evacuation is not possible, find a secure location, lock or barricade doors, and silence your phone.

DEFEND: As a last resort, be prepared to defend yourself.

Surviving an Active Shooter Event - Civilian Response to Active Shooter (Avoid-Deny-Defend) Video

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 (if on campus) or dial 911 (if off campus), 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 (not 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.

Bleeding Control Kits

If you encounter someone who is bleeding, you must act quickly. Stevens has portable emergency kits located across campus to be used to quickly manage serious bleeding. For locations and additional information, refer to the Stop the Bleed Protocol page.

Stevens Alerts and Stevens (Rave) Guardian

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.

Remain in a secure location and monitor updates and communications on the Stevens Alerts system and on Stevens (Rave) Guardian until the situation is resolved.

Keep Stevens Safe

Update Your Emergency Contact Information

Refer a student to the CARE team if you feel they are exhibiting concerning behavior that does not appear to be time sensitive.