Safety preparation – Campus resources for an active shooter situation

Published on Jan. 20, 2026

Dear campus community,

Welcome to a new semester at Mizzou! As the semester begins, we remain committed to ensuring our campus is a safe place where we all can work, learn and thrive. MUPD, in coordination with local law enforcement, are well prepared to respond to emergencies, including active shooter situations. It is also important that each person knows the resources available and best practices to keep themselves safe during an active shooter situation on campus. By staying prepared and vigilant, we can protect the well-being of our entire Tiger community.

In the event of an active shooter at Mizzou, you will receive a message from MU Alert providing important information and frequent updates as the threat evolves. An “all clear” alert will be sent when the situation is resolved. If you are not signed up for MU Alerts, register today. In addition, make sure you’re following official channels for accurate information:

• MU Police Department
• Columbia Police Department
• City of Columbia
• Boone County Sheriff

The choices you make during an imminent threat are critical to your safety. Please review the below resources on the RUN. HIDE. FIGHT.® strategy for responding during an active shooter situation:

• Mizzou tip sheet on surviving an active shooter
• Mizzou – Active Shooter Safety video

For additional safety resources:

• Students – review the Mizzou Campus Safety module in Canvas
• Faculty and staff – review the Campus Emergency Alert Training in Percipio
• Review the Mizzou video on securing classrooms 
• Download and use the MizzouSafe App

MU Health Care follows practices of the OUT Theory, a version of the RUN. HIDE. FIGHT.® approach tailored for the clinical environment. The OUT Theory is covered in MU Health Care’s annual mandatory training and can be found in our Emergency Management Quick Guides located throughout our health care facilities. If you are not familiar with the protocols or have any questions, please reach out to your supervisor.

If you observe a threat or feel in danger while on campus, call 911 when safe to do so. For other safety concerns or questions, please contact MUPD. If you are interested in additional safety information, active shooter training is available through MUPD by contacting crimeprevention@missouri.edu.

Your safety is our highest priority. Staying prepared helps protect yourself and others. Thank you for your commitment to the Mizzou community.

Sincerely,

Mun Y. Choi, President

Brian Weimer, Chief of Police