Active Shooter Response

Welcome
Introduction to Active Shooter
What is an Active Shooter?
Statistics and Real Life Case Studies
Common Locations for Active Shooter Events
The Role of a Security Officer in these situations
Knowledge Check
Situational Awareness and Prevention
Identify Warning Signs of Potential Violence
Understanding Behavioral Indicators
Dealing with Workplace Conflicts
The importance of “See Something, Say Something”
Knowledge Check
Active Shooter Response Strategies
The “Run, Hide, Fight” Model Explained
Evacuation Procedures: When and How to Evacuate
Hiding and Securing a Location: Barricade and Silent Mode
Fighting as a Last Resort: When and How to Take Action
Knowledge Check
Specific Response Actions
Responsibilities Before, During and After an Attack
Assisting Employees and Visitors During an Attack
The Importance of Access Control and Lockdown Procedures
Knowledge Check
Coordinating with Law Enforcement and EMS
What to Expect from First Responders
How Security Guards Should Identify Themselves to Police
Providing Useful Intelligence to Law Enforcement
Emergency Medical Response: Assisting Victims Until Help Arrives
Knowledge Check
Communication and Emergency Notifications
Proper Radio and Verbal Communication in a Crisis
Alerting Authorities and Providing Critical Information
Managing Panic and Crowd Control
Using Emergency Notification Systems and Alarms
Knowledge Check
Tactical Considerations and Scene Safety
Understanding the Difference Between Cover and Concealment
Moving Safely in a Hostile Environment
Working with Armed Security Teams and Police Response
Avoiding Common Mistakes in High Stress Situations
Knowledge Check
Post Incident Procedures
Securing the Scene After the Shooter is Neutralized
Assisting First Responders and Medical Teams
Incident Reports and Witness Statements
Coping with Trauma and Stress
Knowledge Check
Final Exam – Active Shooter
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Assisting Employees and Visitors During an Attack

During an active shooter attack, employees and visitors will likely be scared, confused, and unsure of what to do. As a security guard, your job is to stay calm, provide guidance, and help them take the safest possible action.

How to Assist During an Attack

 

1. Lead Evacuations When Possible

If there is a safe way out, direct people to the nearest exits. Use clear, firm instructions like, “Follow me! Stay low and move quickly!” Do not let people stop for belongings—every second counts. Prevent others from walking toward danger by blocking unsafe areas and warning them to turn back.

2. Guide People to Secure Hiding Spots

If escape is not an option, lead employees and visitors to a room that can be locked or barricaded. Help them stay quiet and out of sight by turning off lights, silencing phones, and positioning them behind solid cover. If there are children, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities, help them move to safety as quickly as possible.

3. Keep People Calm

Panic can put lives at risk. Speak in a calm but firm voice and encourage others to stay quiet and follow instructions. If someone is panicking, reassure them with short, simple phrases like, “We are safe here. Stay low and stay quiet.”

4. Help Those Who Are Injured (If Safe to Do So)

If someone is injured and you can safely assist, apply pressure to bleeding wounds and keep them as still as possible. Do not attempt medical aid if the shooter is still active and you are in danger—your priority is survival.

5. Communicate When Possible

If it is safe to do so, call 911 and provide clear information about the shooter’s location, description, and weapons. Let employees and visitors know help is on the way. If law enforcement arrives, instruct everyone to keep their hands visible and follow all police commands.

What Not to Do

Do not run blindly or encourage people to scatter in all directions—keep movement organized and controlled. Do not open doors or leave a hiding place until law enforcement confirms it is safe. Do not try to confront the shooter unless it is the last resort for survival.

During an attack, employees and visitors will look to you for guidance. Your ability to stay calm, lead evacuations, secure hiding spots, and provide reassurance can save lives. Always be prepared to take quick action in an emergency.