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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Evacuation Procedures: When and How to Evacuate

When to Evacuate

Evacuating is the best option if it is safe to do so. Security guards should direct people to evacuate if there is a clear and accessible exit and the shooter is not nearby. If the shooter is in another area of the building and there is a safe way out, leaving immediately can save lives. However, if the shooter is close, hiding may be the better option.

How to Evacuate Safely

✔ Know Your Exits – Be familiar with all emergency exits and evacuation routes before an incident occurs. Always have multiple escape options in mind. ✔ Act Quickly but Stay Calm – Move fast but do not panic. Staying focused helps you and others escape safely. ✔ Leave Belongings Behind – Personal items are not important in an emergency. Do not waste time gathering them. ✔ Encourage Others to Follow – Guide people to exits and tell them to move quickly. If someone is hesitant, encourage them to leave, but do not force them if they refuse. ✔ Prevent Others from Entering Danger Zones – If people are trying to enter an unsafe area, warn them and redirect them to safety. ✔ Stay Low and Use Cover – If you hear gunfire, crouch low and move behind solid objects that can stop bullets, such as concrete walls, desks, or large furniture. ✔ Do Not Pull the Fire Alarm – This can cause confusion and send people into the shooter’s path instead of away from danger. ✔ Call 911 When Safe – Once in a secure location, provide law enforcement with details about the shooter’s appearance, location, weapons, and any injuries.

What NOT to Do When Evacuating

❌ Do not run in a straight line in an open area—move from cover to cover when possible. ❌ Do not scream or yell—keep quiet and avoid drawing attention to yourself. ❌ Do not stop to record videos or take photos—focus on escaping. ❌ Do not wait for confirmation—if you believe you can safely evacuate, do so immediately.

Security guards play a crucial role in leading evacuations during an active shooter incident. Knowing when and how to evacuate can save lives. The key is to stay alert, act fast, and help others escape safely. If evacuation is not possible, be prepared to hide and secure the area until law enforcement arrives.