How to respond to an active shooter as well as active shooter incidents have been all over the news lately. It’s becoming essential for security personnel to be properly trained in how to respond to active shooter situations knowing time is of the essence. There is no second guessing when lives are at stake.
What is an Active Shooter Situation?
An active shooter situation is when an individual starts killing people in a confined area such as a mall, school, or other densely populated places. In most cases, the active shooter uses firearms to threaten and kill innocent victims. Often, the shooter is mentally unwell, and there is no pattern or methodology for how they choose victims; it’s completely random. These situations are typically unpredictable and ramp up quickly, sometimes lasting only 10-15 minutes before law enforcement arrives.
How to Respond to an Active Shooter Situation
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security advises victims to follow a three-part solution to deal with an active shooter incident, escape/run, hide, or fight. If at all possible, try to evacuate the area as quickly as possible. Take notice of exits and have an escape plan. Leave belongings behind and help others get away if you can safely. If you cannot escape, hide. Find a safe spot out of sight from the active shooter. Try to shield yourself with whatever possible to avoid any injury from flying bullets or debris. Lock doors and barricade them if possible. Silence your cell phone and any other devices. Try to stay undetectable until it’s over.If you cannot run or hide and your life is in danger, you may choose to take aggressive action against the shooter. For example, throw items at the shooter, yell at them, and be aggressive. Sometimes this unexpected behavior throws the shooter off, and they may flee.
How Law Enforcement Should Respond
Unlike citizens, law enforcement and security personnel are trained and expected to handle active shooter situations differently and do their best to protect the public. Unfortunately, as evidenced by the situation in Uvalde, law enforcement failed to follow proper protocols and they made other grievous mistakes that led to the loss of life. Police involved with the Uvalde situation were trained on active shooter incidents according to the district’s safety plan, but due to confusion and fear, they disregarded everything they were taught. Their biggest mistake was that no one was clearly in charge, and they waited too long to act. Security personnel are trained to act quickly in a shooter incident to prevent the loss of life and disarm the shooter.’
How to Protect Your Facility
DMAC Security is a team of highly trained, skilled, and confident personnel who are ready to handle any security situation, including active shooter incidents. The most effective way to protect your assets, facilities, and people is through a solid security plan and security guards positioned at entrances and exits around the facility.
Contact DMAC Security today to learn more about putting together a security plan for your facility to protect what’s yours.
