Mass Casualty Events (Non-Terrorism)

A mass casualty event (MCE) is an incident where the number of injured or dead overwhelms the available emergency resources. While many associate MCEs with terrorism or violence, they can also occur due to accidents, crowd surges, fires, or structural collapses at public events or locations.

Examples include:

  • Stadium stampedes
  • Building or bridge collapses
  • Large-scale transportation accidents (bus, train, ferry)
  • Industrial explosions or gas leaks
  • School shootings (non-terror motivated)

These events unfold rapidly and often without warning, requiring fast decisions and coordinated public safety response.

Common Characteristics

  • Multiple injuries or fatalities
  • Disruption of normal emergency services
  • Panic, confusion, and crowd behavior risks
  • Delayed or limited access to medical care
  • Need for on-site triage and transport coordination

Preparedness Tips

If attending large events

  • Know all exits and alternate escape routes
  • Stay near the edge of large crowds when possible
  • Establish a meeting point with your group if separated
  • Carry basic medical items: gloves, gauze, antiseptic wipes
  • Avoid wearing loose clothing or items that can be grabbed

Situational awareness

  • Observe crowd mood and density
  • Be cautious of overcrowding, aggressive behavior, or signs of agitation
  • Report hazards (e.g., blocked exits, unstable structures) to staff immediately

During a mass casualty event

If you witness a collapse or crowd surge:

  • Move diagonally through the crowd toward an edge
  • If pushed down, cover your head and curl into a ball to protect vital organs
  • Help others stand if it’s safe—but don’t endanger yourself
  • Avoid bottlenecks like narrow exits, fences, or barriers

If you’re trapped indoors:

  • Stay low to avoid smoke or debris
  • Use furniture to block falling objects or secure an exit
  • Signal with light or sound if trapped

If you’re uninjured:

  • Assist first responders if asked
  • Do not attempt CPR unless trained—focus on stopping bleeding using pressure or makeshift tourniquets
  • Stay calm and provide clear, factual reports to authorities

After an MCE

  • Check yourself and others for shock or trauma
  • Seek mental health support if experiencing anxiety, nightmares, or emotional distress
  • Document what you saw if you are a witness
  • Follow law enforcement directions during investigations

Key Resources

  • Department of Homeland Security – Mass Casualty Guidance
     dhs.gov
  • American Red Cross – Mass Casualty Response
     redcross.org
  • Stop the Bleed Program – Public bleeding control initiative
     stopthebleed.org

Recommended Apps

  • 911HelpSMS – Sends exact location and emergency info to 911
    911helpsms.com
  • PulsePoint Respond – Alerts for CPR and AED needs nearby
    pulsepoint.org
  • First Aid by Red Cross – Emergency medical instructions
    redcross.org