Know the Signs

Indicators for Potential Violence

• Explosive outbursts of anger or rage without provocation.
• Suicidal behavior like comments about “putting things in order”.
• Behavior which is suspect of paranoia, “everybody is against me”.
• Increasingly talks of problems at home.
• Escalation of domestic problems into the workplace.
• Talk of severe financial problems.

While active shooter situations are often unpredictable, paying careful attention to warning signs could go a long way in mitigating a potential incident.

• Increased use of alcohol and/or illegal drugs.
• Unexplained increase in absenteeism; vague physical complaints.
• Noticeable decrease in attention to appearance and hygiene.
• Depression/withdrawal.
• Resistance and overreaction to changes in policy and procedures.
• Repeated violations of company policies.
• Increased severe mood swings.
• Noticeably unstable, emotional responses.