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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What is an Active Shooter?

Definition

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area using firearms. In most cases, active shooters continue to move and attack until they are stopped by law enforcement, security personnel, or suicide.

 

Key Characteristics of an Active Shooter

  • They are actively attempting to harm or kill people.
  • They typically use firearms, but may also have knives or explosives.
  • They do not follow a set pattern of attack.
  • The attack is usually rapid, unpredictable, and violent.
  • Most incidents end within minutes—before law enforcement arrives.

Common Locations for Active Shooter Incidents

Active shooter attacks can happen anywhere, but they are most common in:
✅ Workplaces (Offices, warehouses, security posts)
✅ Schools & Universities
✅ Malls & Shopping Centers
✅ Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities
✅ Public Events & Gatherings
✅ Places of Worship

Why Security Guards Must Be Prepared

Security guards are often the first line of defense in an active shooter incident. Since these events happen quickly and without warning, guards must be trained to:
✔ Recognize early warning signs of potential violence.
✔ React immediately using Run, Hide, Fight tactics.
✔ Assist in evacuations and lockdown procedures.
✔ Communicate effectively with law enforcement.
✔ Provide first aid and assist victims after the incident.


How Long Do Active Shooter Incidents Last?

  • Average duration: 5-7 minutes
  • Police response time: 3-10 minutes (varies by location)
  • Most attacks end before law enforcement arrives
    This means security guards and civilians must be prepared to respond immediately to save lives.