Surviving an Active Shooter: A Tactical Guide to Enhancing Your Preparedness
In a world where unexpected threats can arise, having the knowledge and strategies to survive an active shooter event is paramount. As we witness a concerning increase in mass casualty incidents, adapting our responses becomes crucial. This blog post aims to explore best practices for surviving an active shooter situation, drawing insights from expert advice and real-world scenarios.
Developing a Survival Mindset
Before delving into specific actions, it's essential to cultivate a survival mindset. This involves understanding your surroundings, asking yourself "What if?" questions, and developing a plan for potential emergencies. Awareness and preparation are the foundations for effective responses in high-stress situations.
Active Shooter Emergency: Run, Hide, Fight
When faced with an active shooter, individuals generally have three options: Run, Hide, Fight. The decision to take one of these actions relies on instinct and the immediate circumstances.
Run for Safety
If safe to do so, the primary instinct should be to run and reach a safe place. Leave belongings behind, grab your cell phone if accessible, and exit the area using any available escape routes. Running provides distance from the immediate threat, potentially increasing your chances of survival.
Hiding in a Safe Place
If escape is not feasible, finding a hidden and secure location becomes crucial. Seek protection behind furniture, aim for a room that locks, and barricade the door with heavy objects. Creating a plan with others in the room ensures coordinated actions if the shooter enters. Maintaining silence, turning off lights, and spreading out can enhance your concealment.
Fighting Back
Engaging the shooter becomes a last resort. While not recommended unless absolutely necessary, fighting back may be the only option for survival in close proximity to the threat. Individuals must use their discretion and act as a team if possible, doing whatever is necessary to survive.
Strategic Actions for Different Scenarios
If Outside When a Shooting Occurs
Drop to the ground immediately and crawl away from gunfire. Utilize any obstructions for cover, keeping in mind that cover may conceal you from sight but might not be bulletproof. Stay down, wait for directions from law enforcement, and provide information about the assailant if safe to do so.
When Law Enforcement Arrives
Law enforcement's priority is to identify and neutralize the threat. Follow their instructions carefully; avoid sudden movements, yelling, or pointing. Provide accurate information about the number of shooters, their location, and the types of weapons involved.
Helping Others and Calling for Help
In an active shooter situation, assisting others can be crucial. Warn, help others escape, keep individuals away from danger, and aid the injured. Calling 9-1-1 is essential, providing precise information about the incident. Be persistent, as phone lines may be jammed, and remain calm during the call.
Conclusion: Empowering Individuals for Survival
Surviving an active shooter event necessitates a combination of awareness, quick decision-making, and strategic actions. By developing a survival mindset, understanding the three options of Run, Hide, Fight, and taking strategic actions based on the situation, individuals can enhance their chances of survival. Being prepared is not just a personal responsibility; it contributes to the overall safety of communities. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and be prepared.
Internal Links for Further Reading
To enhance your preparedness, consider exploring our previous blog posts on related topics:
Cultivating An Emergency Response Team - Part 1 - Getting Started - Learn how to establish an on-site Emergency Response Team to enhance overall safety.
Lone Wolves - What If They Find You? - Understand the concept of lone wolves and discover proactive measures to stay vigilant against potential threats.