In April, the Faculty of Medicine Masaryk University organized its first training session focused on improving staff safety and awareness, led by MU Security Manager Pavel Bojanovský. The goal was to introduce participants to potential crisis scenarios and strengthen their ability to respond appropriately. We are currently preparing the next training on this topic.
Participants learned about the importance of mental readiness, knowledge of their surroundings, and the ability to act decisively in situations involving personal safety. The session also covered current and planned safety measures on campus, such as internal door labeling, external building signage, the ability to lock classrooms in case of an attack, and response cards prepared for the Police of the Czech Republic.
Further training sessions will be organized later this year for all faculty staff - details can be found at the end of this article. For now, here is a summary of the most important points presented during the training.
Soft targets are locations with high concentrations of people and low levels of security - such as schools, dormitories, public transport, cultural events, or open campuses. Protecting them is challenging and often impossible. That’s why prevention, vigilance, and individual preparedness are essential.
The attacker typically plans the act in advance, the attack occurs quickly, and the assailant often remains on site. In some cases, communication or negotiation is possible.
This behavior may be seen in individuals under the influence of substances or with mental health issues. These situations are more chaotic and the attacker’s reactions unpredictable.
This is the most serious and dangerous scenario. The attacker seeks to cause maximum harm, has no intent to survive, and does not communicate. A fast and decisive reaction is crucial.
The security manager recommends following the simple model Run – Hide – Fight, complemented by Warn Others and Act. More information is available on the Safe Faculty website.
Secure doors (e.g., block the handle), avoid open spaces and glass surfaces, don’t gather in groups, and remain calm. If you are in a safe hiding place, do not allow anyone in or out.
Inform colleagues in the building, contact the Campus Central Security Desk (they can activate an audio alert), and call emergency number 158. Give a brief description of the situation and the attacker.
For Campus employees - Campus Central Security Desk - Emergency Cases: 549 49 2929 (Save this number in your phone.) link CZ only
Create obstacles, darken the room, turn off lights, mute your phone, and stay silent. Minimize movement and avoid exposing yourself to danger.
Only if it is safe to do so. Avoid open corridors, halls, and courtyards. Use the nearest available exit. Keep your hands free and avoid making noise.
Don’t go where you can’t see.
If you need to look around a corner or into a room, don’t expose your head at eye level - use a mirror or your phone to peek instead.
Know Your Surroundings
Only if your life is directly threatened. Use any available objects and aim for the attacker’s vulnerable spots to neutralize them.
If you encounter the police, do not walk in the center of the hallway and keep your hands visible.
If you are locked in a room and someone asks you to open the door, be cautious: attackers are usually alone; police never operate solo. Ask the person to have someone else speak to confirm their identity.
Not every crisis involves physical danger. Communication crises—especially involving aggressive or unpredictable individuals - can also be high-risk.
The key is thorough mental and procedural preparation: have a clear goal, remain calm, control your tone and body language, and if necessary, calm the person, ask them to leave, or call for help.
It’s also important to organize your office space safely and be ready to leave quickly if needed.
Every incident should be taken seriously—whether it’s suspicious behavior, aggression, or any other security concern. Reporting is not a weakness, but part of protecting the entire workplace. Always inform your supervisor or faculty leadership. Prevention is always more effective than reactive measures.
The main goal of the training was to raise awareness that each individual can influence the outcome of a crisis. Familiarity with surroundings, preparation, a calm mindset, and decisiveness are the best defenses. The Faculty of Medicine MU emphasizes prevention and preparedness. As part of the Safe Faculty initiative, it provides staff and students with resources and tools to ensure personal safety, a secure workplace, and mental well-being.
We invite you to a practical seminar taking place on 5 August 2025 from 9:00 to 11:00 at the University Campus Bohunice (room details to be confirmed). Mgr. Bc. Pavel Bojanovský, Security Manager of MU, will cover topics such as crisis communication, recommended preventive measures, and procedures for violent incidents. The presentation includes video demonstrations with commentary.
Please register by 13 June using this form. If you are interested but the date doesn’t suit you, please let us know in the form.
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