Here are some suggestions on what to do if you encounter a shooting while studying abroad in 2025:
- Stay calm: When you encounter a shooting, the most important thing is to stay calm. Panic can lead to wrong decisions. Try to take a few deep breaths to calm yourself down and quickly assess the situation.
- Find cover: Immediately look for a safe place to hide, such as behind a thick wall, a large piece of furniture, or in a locked room. Avoid areas with glass or other easily penetrable materials. If possible, get under something sturdy like a table to protect yourself from bullets.
- Call for help: As soon as it is safe to do so, call the local emergency number. In most countries, it is 911, but make sure you know the correct number for the place where you are studying. Report your location and the situation clearly and concisely. Stay on the line with the operator until help arrives if possible.
- Follow the instructions of the authorities: When the police or other emergency responders arrive, follow their instructions carefully. Do not make any sudden movements or try to run away unless they tell you to do so. They are trained to handle these situations and will work to ensure your safety.
- Document the incident: If it is safe to do so, try to document the incident. This can include taking photos or videos of the scene, writing down the details of what you saw and heard, and recording the time and location. This information may be useful for the police investigation and for your own safety in the future.
- Seek support: After the incident, it is important to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Experiencing a shooting can be very traumatic, and it is normal to feel a range of emotions such as fear, anxiety, or shock. Talking to someone about your feelings can help you cope with the trauma and begin to recover.