By Zoey Sky   Newstarget.com

Mass shootings are terrifying and the best way to improve your chances of surviving an attack is to consider all possible scenarios. Make the necessary preparations and remain calm because you are on your own during an active shooter attack, at least until the authorities arrive. (h/t to UKSurvivalGuides.com)

Hopefully, you never have to use the tips below. However, should you find yourself in the middle of an active shooter incident, you at least have an idea of what to do and where to go.

Take note of multiple exits

Whenever you enter buildings or the cinema, a library, restaurant, store, or theater, remember where the exits are located.

If you do encounter a shooter, don't head for the main exit with the rest of the crowd. Cut through a store, head for the stock room, then exit through the back door.

Take cover

Remain calm when the shooting starts. Resist the urge to panic and scream so you don't make yourself a target.

Hide behind large objects that are sturdy enough to protect you from a bullet.

Stay away from the shooter's direct line of sight

Imagine that the shooter is the center of a clock. Position yourself at the shooter's 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock position. Doing this forces the shooter to change his position, which may reduce the accuracy of his shots. (Related: What we should teach children about surviving a school shooting.)

Keep your arms by your side

If you're shot in the arm, there's a low chance that the bullet will cause a fatal injury, unlike a shot to the chest from the side.

When you're trying to help someone escape the shooter, keep their head low and position their body away from the attacker. Remain still, then start moving when the shooter is reloading his weapon.

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Engage when he reloads

If you have no other choice but to engage the shooter, charge at him from behind or from the side.

Rush him when he reloads and if you try to grab his gun, hold it as tight as you can then pull it toward your upper body. Once you grab hold of the gun, call others for help.

You have at least four to seven seconds to engage during reloading, but this depends on the attacker's weapon and shooting experience. Most shooters are not tactically trained and they will take longer to reload.

Charge fast and strong

The average person can quickly cover an area of about 30 feet before an inexperienced shooter finishes reloading his weapon. If you're fast enough, you can engage the shooter if you have to.

Take note that you do this at your own risk.