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 to Expect from First Responders

How First Responders Enter and Clear the Area

When law enforcement arrives at an active shooter scene, their primary mission is to neutralize the threat as quickly as possible. Officers will not stop to help the injured or answer questions—they will focus on locating and stopping the shooter.

  • Officers will move quickly and forcefully toward the location of the shooter. They may enter in teams with weapons drawn.
  • They will give loud, direct commands such as “Hands up!” or “Get on the ground!” to control movement and prevent confusion.
  • They may not immediately assist injured individuals because stopping the threat is the first priority. Medical teams will follow once the area is secure.
  • They will not know who the shooter is at first, so everyone is considered a potential threat until cleared.

 

How a Security Guard Should React

  • Remain Calm and Follow Instructions – Law enforcement will be moving quickly and will expect immediate cooperation.
  • Do Not Approach Officers or Make Sudden Movements – Keep your hands visible at all times. Do not hold anything in your hands, especially objects that could be mistaken for a weapon.
  • Identify Yourself as Security Only When Safe to Do So – If possible, wear any security identification (badge, uniform) to help officers recognize you. However, do not assume they know who you are immediately.
  • Do Not Attempt to Direct Law Enforcement – Officers have specific procedures for clearing a scene. Let them take the lead.
  • Help Control and Calm Others – Employees, visitors, or bystanders may be panicked. Encourage them to remain still and follow police instructions.

How Security Guards Can Assist First Responders

  • Provide Key Information If Asked – If safe, be ready to share what you know about the shooter’s description, location, number of suspects, and type of weapons.
  • Assist with Evacuation – If officers direct people to evacuate, help move them in an orderly manner.
  • Secure the Perimeter – If the shooter is neutralized and the scene is being cleared, security guards may be asked to keep unauthorized personnel out of the area.
  • Help Medical Responders – Once the scene is safe, EMTs will enter. Assist by directing them to injured victims.
  • Preserve the Crime Scene – Do not move or touch evidence. The area will be an active investigation site.

What Not to Do

  • Do not run toward police when they arrive.
  • Do not argue or try to take control of the situation.
  • Do not assume the scene is safe until police confirm it.
  • Do not attempt to engage the shooter if law enforcement is already on the scene unless absolutely necessary for survival.

Security guards play an important role in keeping the area safe and assisting first responders. Remaining calm, following instructions, and providing useful information when needed can help law enforcement act faster and save lives. Understanding how first responders operate ensures that you do not interfere with their mission and can provide the best support possible during and after the attack.