"Hi, I’m Dr. Mike Hoaglin, a Virtual Urgent Care provider specializing in emergency medicine.
On top of an already trying time with the pandemic, we have also seen an uptick in mass attacks and shootings. These attacks can leave us feeling anxious and unprepared.
While we hope you and your loved ones are never in this situation, we want to teach you how to prepare (opens in new tab), protect yourself and others.
Staying informed
Stay Alert. Always be aware of your environment and any possible dangers. If you see something, say something to local authorities. That includes suspicious packages, people behaving strangely, or someone using strange communications.
Observe warning signs. Signs might include unusual or violent communications, expressed anger or intent to cause harm and substance abuse. These warning signs may increase over time.
Have an exit plan. Identify exits and areas to hide wherever you go, including work, school and special events.
Learn first aid to assist the wounded before help arrives. You can refer to my previous video on health and safety tips for more specific examples.
And, during the pandemic, make sure to wear a mask when in public to slow the spread of COVID-19 especially if you are unvaccinated. Remember that masks should not be worn by children under two, those who have trouble breathing, and those who are unable to remove them on their own.
What to do during an attack
During the COVID-19 pandemic, focus on Run. Hide. Fight.
Do not worry about social distancing, wearing a mask, or reducing the spread of COVID-19 during an active shooter situation.
Seek safety. Getting away from the attacker is the top priority.
Leave your belongings behind and get away. If you are not wearing a mask, do not stop to put one on. It is more important to run to safety.
Call 9-1-1 when you are safe and describe the attacker, location and weapons.
If you can’t evacuate, cover and hide. Find a place to hide out of view of the attacker and if possible, put a solid barrier between yourself and the threat.
Fight only as a last resort. When you can’t run or cover, attempt to disrupt the attack or disable the attacker.
Take care of yourself first and then, if you are able, help the wounded get to safety and provide immediate care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and let the operator know if you have, or think you might have, COVID-19. If possible, put on a mask before help arrives.
When help arrives
When help arrives, consider the following:
Remain calm and follow instructions.
Keep hands visible and empty.
Report to designated areas to provide information and get help.
Listen to law enforcement’s messages for information about the situation. Share updates with family and friends.
Seeking support
Being prepared is your best bet for any emergency situation. We also know that these situations can be incredibly stressful. Know that the CDC has great resources for dealing with stress.
* Virtual providers like Dr. Hoaglin are employed by Oscar Medical Group and are not employed by Oscar Health, Inc.
** In 2021, Oscar Virtual Primary Care will only be available to Oscar members on individual & family plans in Miami, FL, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Palm Beach, FL, Houston, TX, Dallas, TX, Austin, TX, Denver, CO, and New York, NY, pending regulatory approval. Oscar's Virtual Primary Care offerings are only available for members ages 18 and over. Prescriptions, visits and services may be limited per provider discretion. Virtual Primary Care is not available in CA.
This content does not constitute medical advice and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, including diagnosis or treatment. Contact your physician with any questions you may have regarding COVID-19 or your personal health. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance.
![Staying Safe during Mass Attacks [Video]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fjnbz686p%2Fhioscar_production%2Fc4ebe79de657ff2eeabb1232df1937608c47f598-3840x2160.png%3Fw%3D3840%26fit%3Dmax%26fm%3Dwebp&w=3840&q=75)