Hostage Situation

If You Witness a Hostage Situation

1. Immediately remove yourself from harm’s way.
2. Notify Belmont Campus Security
   1. Dial 615.460.6911
   2. Dial 6911 from any campus phone number
3. Provide Police Dispatchers with the following information:
   1. Your name and location
   2. Location of incident
   3. Number of possible hostage takers
   4. Physical description and names of hostage takers, if known
   5. Number of possible hostages
   6. Types of weapons and threats

If You are Taken Hostage

1. Remain calm and be patient.
2. The first (5) minutes can be critical because captors are trying to control hostage(s) and the environment.
3. Do not try to be a negotiator.
4. Do not speak unless spoken to.
5. If you have to speak do not complain or be belligerent.
6. Avoid getting into political or ideological discussions with your captor(s).
7. Sit, if possible to avoid appearing aggressive.
8. Maintain eye contact with the captor, but do not stare.
9. Comply with instructions as best you can.
10. DO NOT draw attention to yourself with sudden body movements, statements, comments, or by looking hostile.
11. Be observant, as you may be released or escape and the safety of others may depend on your memory. Observe the captors and try to memorize their physical traits, voice patterns, clothing or other details that would help you to describe them.
12. DO NOT attempt to escape unless there is an extremely good chance of survival. It is safer to be submissive and obey your captors.
13. If forced to present terrorist demands to authorities, either in writing or in type, state clearly that the demands are from your captors. Avoid making a plea on your own behalf.
14. Try to stay low to the ground or behind cover from windows or doors, if possible.

In a Rescue Situation

1. DO NOT RUN. Drop to the floor and remain still. If that’s not possible, cross your arms, bow your head, and stand still. Make no sudden moves that a rescuer may interpret as hostile or threatening.
2. Wait for instructions and obey all instructions you are given.
3. Do not be upset, resist, or argue if a rescuer isn’t sure whether you are a suspect or a hostage.
4. Even if you are handcuffed and searched, DO NOT RESIST. Just wait for the confusion to clear.
5. You will be taken to a safe area, where proper identification and status will be determined.