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ALICE Response Procedures

Macalester College has adopted ALICE in response to violent intruders/incidents on campus. ALICE has been adopted by schools and universities across the country and is based on a 5 elements. Because each situation is different, each element should dynamically and in no specific order. After you have reviewed this information, we recommend you watch this short video –Macalester ALICE Training Video 2022.

ALICE is an acronym which stands for:

Alert – The objective of this element is to inform as many people as quickly as possible. Macalester College uses the RAVE alert system for text, voice and/or email notifications. Other forms of communication can include word-of-mouth, campus media, and appropriate staff to alert the campus community.

Lockdown – The object of this element is to provide secure or semi-secure area allowing time to make survival decisions. During this stage, barricade the room you are in and prepare for the next step to evacuate or counter if needed.

Inform – The objective during this element is to gather and provide as much information about the situation as possible. This will allow you to make an informed decision on the next best step for your survival. During this stage, use cell phones and other electronic devices to get information from the RAVE alert system and to contact the police and provide information that will help in their response.

Counter – The objective of this element is to interfere with the intruder to continue their attack. This is done by creating noise, movement, distance and distractions with the intent of reducing the attackers ability to shoot accurately or continue their attack. ALICE does not endorse actively confronting a violent intruder, this step should only be used when in a life-and-death situation.

Escape – The objective of this element is to get out of the building or area as quickly as possible. When it is safe to do so, you should evacuate the area and get as many people to go with you.

After watching the Macalester College ALICE video, if you have additional questions or would like the Department of Public Safety to present this information to your work group or department, please email us at [email protected].