Whatshould I do in the event of a hostage situation on campus?

Anyone who witnesses another person in a hostage situation or forcibly contained in a specific area should avoid interaction with the hostage-taker, and immediately notify ABAC Police or 911. The initial 45 minutes of a hostage situation are often the most dangerous. Stress, emotions, and physical and mental anxiety are at their highest in the opening minutes of a hostage situation, and it is difficult to predict responses to a given situation.

If taken hostage, make every effort to:

• Try to remain calm.
• Be polite and cooperative with the captor. Comply with instructions as best you can. Expect the unexpected: severe mood swings, irrational actions, etc.
• Avoid being argumentative, hostile, or belligerent. Displaying some fear may work to your advantage.
• Do not speak unless spoken to, and then only when necessary. Don’t talk down, complain, or attempt to argue or rationalize with the captor.
• Make no sudden moves that a tense rescuer may interpret as hostile or threatening.
• If you must go to the bathroom, need medications, or first aid, ask your captor(s).
• Do not attempt to escape unless there is an extremely good chance of success and/or survival.
• Be observant and try to remember as many details as possible. Physical traits, voice patterns, clothing, or other details about your captor(s) can help provide a better description later.