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Writer's pictureDustin McCaffry

What is an active shooter and how to prevent it?

An active shooter is an individual who is actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. In most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.


Preventing an active shooter situation is a multi-layered approach that includes:


- Developing a proactive security plan

- Training employees on what to do if an active shooter is in the vicinity

- Promoting a culture of awareness and reporting suspicious behavior


With the right security measures in place, it is possible to prevent or mitigate the damage caused by an active shooter.

What are some ways to help out in an active shooter situation?

There are a few things you can do to help out in an active shooter situation. First, if you're able, try to get away from the area. This will help to reduce the number of targets the shooter has. If you can't get away, try to find a place to hide. Turn off any lights and remain as quiet as possible. If you're with others, try to stay together and help each other stay calm. Lastly, if you're able, call 911 and provide as much information as possible.

What should you do during an active shooter situation?

If you find yourself in an active shooter situation, the best thing to do is to try to get away from the area if possible. If you can't get away, try to find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely to find you. Once you're in a safe place, call 911 and stay there until the police arrive.

How do active shooters choose their victims?

Active shooters typically choose their victims based on a number of factors, including race, gender, and perceived economic status. In many cases, the shooter will target individuals who they believe are part of a group that they feel is responsible for their own personal problems. For example, a shooter who is angry at the government may target government buildings or officials. Similarly, a shooter who is upset with a particular company or organization may target that organization's employees or facilities.

There are many things you can do to prepare for an active shooter, no matter where you are.

There are many things you can do to prepare for an active shooter, no matter where you are. The most important thing is to be aware of your surroundings and have a plan of action in case an active shooter is present. If you are in a public place, familiarize yourself with the exits and be sure to stay away from potential hiding places, such as stairwells or bathrooms. If you are in a private residence, have a plan for how you will escape and where you will go if an active shooter is present. Be sure to practice your plan so that you can act quickly and efficiently if the situation arises.

“Active Shooter/ Workplace Violence |Emergencies - What to Do?! | Department of Public Safety at Miller School of Medicine.” Active Shooter/ Workplace Violence |Emergencies - What to Do?! | Department of Public Safety at Miller School of Medicine, publicsafety.med.miami.edu/emergencies-what-to-do/emergency-active-shooter. Accessed 4 Nov. 2022.

“Active Shooter Response Guide | Emergency Management | the University of Texas at Austin.” Active Shooter Response Guide | Emergency Management | the University of Texas at Austin, emergencymanagement.utexas.edu/safety/active-shooter-response-guide. Accessed 4 Nov. 2022.

“Run, Hide, Fight - Active Shooter Protocol - Office of Public Safety.” Office of Public Safety, www.smcm.edu/publicsafety/run-hide-fight-active-shooter-protocol. Accessed 4 Nov. 2022.


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