ALICE (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate) is a program designed to teach proactive tactics that could be utilized in the event of an armed aggressor threat on campus or elsewhere. ALICE upholds the idea that during such threats, traditional lockdown (i.e., hiding with lights out) is a passive response and often further endangers individuals in an emergency situation. Instead of traditional lockdown, ALICE principles encourage those in danger to assess the situation, communicate efficiently, lockdown in a strategic yet alert manner, and be prepared to counter an attack, or, ultimately, evacuate the scene if/when it is safe to do so. 

About the Training 

ALICE training is designed to provide an interactive presentation/discussion where participants are provided information and methods should an active aggressor incident occur. They will also be offered the “opportunity” to participate in scenarios directed by the instructional staff as provided by ALICE. The scenarios include the use of a variety of props to simulate an incident including: tennis balls, NERF products that expel a sponge-type projectile, etc.

Each segment of the training lasts approximately 45 minutes. Participants planning to take part in the scenario session should wear comfortable/practical clothing and shoes since some physical activity is required, e.g., running, throwing tennis balls. Please note that participation in ALICE training is optional. Participants will be free to leave the training at any time should they feel the need to do so.

If you have questions about the training and/or the props that will be used in the simulation, please do not hesitate to contact Lieutenant Dan Morse (Daniel_morse [at] emerson.edu (Daniel_morse[at]emerson[dot]edu)) or at 617-824-8555.

ALICE: A Breakdown

A - Alert

  • Focus on using your senses.
  • Information is key and should flow in all directions using plain language. Provide information; don’t issue commands.
  • Provide as much initial intel as possible to as many people as possible.

L - Lockdown

  • Locked doors provide a time barrier. Locks can, and have been, defeated.
  • Barricade! The idea is to create a stronghold that nobody can breach.
  • Once lockdown is in effect, utilize (and try to provide) real-time information as it becomes available. Use this information to make single (or collective) decisions as to the best option for survival.
  • Be flexible—the situation will be dynamic, fluid, and perhaps still unfolding.

I - Inform

  • Age appropriate.
  • A last resort.
  • A personal choice.
  • Possible tactics: Barricading, cover, and concealment; evade/escape; SWARM; removing and securing the weapon; making contact with law enforcement.

C - Counter

  • Countering is not fighting.
  • Countering is….Taking back control and no one should be allowed into a secure room under any circumstances. Only open your locked door for uniformed police personnel.

E - Evacuate 

  • Preferred initial response, if feasible.
  • When evacuating: hands up, fingers spread apart (“jazz hands”), don’t latch onto police/emergency response personnel, do not leave in cars/clog roadways, leave all belongings behind.
  • “What do we do with the aggressor’s gun?” (If you come in contact with it…)
    • NO: do not pick it up; do not aim it at the aggressor (unless deadly force is justified).
    • YES: do not hold the gun; using your foot or another object, nudge the gun away; place it in a garbage bin (if possible, carry garbage to an exit).

Read more about ALICE 

Hostile Intruder Safety Video

Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to watch this video to prepare for the unlikely scenario of a hostile intruder on campus.