Identifying & Responding to a Threat or Concern
The university requires that you report threats and acts of violence and encourages reporting concerning behaviors. Reporting helps to ensure that the Threat Assessment Team (TAT) has the information necessary to do its job. TAT seeks to identify and reduce potential threats before they result in harm. (More information about TAT and the threat assessment process is available here.)
As with many of life's problems, early intervention is often better. A person who receives appropriate help sooner, rather than later, may be less likely to experience more severe symptoms or cause harm to self or others.
If you are unsure what do to, contact one of the resources provided to assist you on the Campus and Community Resources page (under construction). By knowing the Warning Signs, and the resources that are available, you will be able to better identify and respond to a situation.
How to respond in an emergency/crisis
- Have an escape route
- Notify the Police IMMEDIATELY (Call 911, 757-221-4596)
- Provide all possible information to the Police including the location, name of person(s) involved, description of perpetrator and type of weapon(s) used (if any)
How to respond to a violent person
Like a crisis, you need to:
- Get to a secure location as soon as possible
- Notify the Police
- Provide all information available to you
- Do not try to be the mediator!
- Remain calm
How to respond if you are concerned someone may cause harm to themselves or others
Do...
- Share your concerns with the Threat Assessment Team (TAT)
- Listen and offer support in a non-judgmental way
- Widen options and explore alternatives for problem solving
- Ask direct questions about the person's intentions; if appropriate ask if the person is considering suicide or other acts of violence
- Communicate your concern for the person's well being
- Recommend that the person reach out to someone who can help them figure out what to do next (clergy, supervisor, mental health professional)
- Call the Police if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate
Do Not...
- Say "everything will be alright"
- Dare the person to "do it"
- Tell the person about someone who "has it worse"
- Promise to keep the conversation a secret
- Leave the person alone if you believe the risk of harm to self or others is immediate
- Provide counseling if you are not qualified to do so
- Decide the situation "isn't your problem." We all share responsibility for safety and security.
To share a concern with TAT or report a threat, email [[TAT, TAT]].
