Conduct Active Shooter Security Assessments

According to the Department of Homeland Security, an “active shooter” situation describes a shooting in progress, “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area.” Unlike a murder or mass killing, the “active” aspect implies that both law enforcement and civilians have the potential to impact the outcome of the event.

The FBI’s “Study of Active Shooter Incidents in the United States Between 2000 and 2013” report shows that 160 active shooter incidents occurred in that 14-year period, resulting in 1,043 casualties – not including the shooters. An average of 6.4 incidents happened each year in the first seven years of the study, and in the latter seven, an average of 16.4 incidents happened per year. While the incidents in this period occurred primarily in commerce and educational environments (70 percent), active shooter incidents also occurred on city streets, on military or government properties, in private residences, healthcare facilities and in houses of worship.

So why should enterprises invest in a separate “active shooter” training and response program in addition to a workplace violence program? The potential for civilian response requires proactive training and education.

Irrevocable damage can occur within just minutes. In the 63 incidents between 2000 and 2013 when the duration of the shooting could be determined, 70 percent ended in five minutes or less. Twenty-three ended in two minutes or less. The report notes that “even when law enforcement was present and able to respond within minutes, civilians often had to make life and death decisions, and, therefore, should be engaged in training and discussions on decisions they may face.”

Through training, we have the opportunity to provide guidance and thus reduce workplace anxiety. We’re essentially communicating that the company is aware of these risks, and the company is working to reduce these risks, he says. “In a violent incident, employees need to react rationally despite the chaos.”

The Certified Protection Professionals (CPP’s) at the Ingenium Consulting Chicago have extensive experience protecting high-profile targets while in U.S. Government Service. They routinely help organizations like yours develop meaningful Active Shooter Training Programs that can make all the difference in the world. Please call us for a confidential quote and we can help you too.