While the chances of being caught in an active threat are extremely low, the modern news cycle often provides sobering reminders of the importance of knowing how to respond.
Each year, LMU Emergency Management partners with the LAPD to host a campus-wide active threat drill, helping to ensure that all Lions are provided the knowledge and tools they need to respond, in the unlikely event of an active shooter.
This year, the university’s annual active threat drill will be held on Thursday, Feb. 20 for the Westchester, Playa Vista, and LMU Loyola Law School campuses.
On Feb. 20, Lions will receive an LMU Alert at 11:30 a.m. (and again at 6:45 p.m. for those with afternoon classes), announcing the start of the drill.
Once you receive the LMU Alert, you should stop what you’re doing and think through the options of how you’d react in a real-life situation:
- Where are your exits?
- How would you barricade a door?
- What improvised weapons do you have nearby to disarm the shooter?
You can refer to the 2025 drill guide help facilitate discussion with classmates and colleagues of these and other essential questions. It’s beneficial to get in the habit of asking yourself these hypothetical questions in any busy area you frequent, including restaurants, malls, movie theaters, and other busy locations.
Additionally, members of LMU Emergency Management will be tabling at Wellness Wednesday on Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Stop by and learn more safety tips about how to protect yourself and those around you!
For further resources, please visit the Emergency Management active threat page, and be sure to participate in tomorrow’s campus-wide drill. While it remains statistically unlikely you’ll ever need the knowledge gained, it’s imperative to never be caught without it.