At D5 Consulting Group, we offer a comprehensive active shooter training program that not only teaches participants how to prepare for and respond to an active shooter incident, but also, how to prevent one from occurring in the first place. In our latest blog, we will explore ways to mitigate these devastating incidents.
Promoting a Safe Environment
Active shooter situations can take place anywhere, but they are most common in workplace or school settings. Whether dealing with children or adults, it is essential to foster an environment where people feel respected, understood, and included. Bullying, harassment, and physical or verbal abuse should not be tolerated, and resources should be made available to anyone who has been the victim of such behavior. Encouraging relationship building, cultural responsiveness, and positivity will make a difference in the climate of your environment.
Active Shooter Profile
No profile exists for an active shooter, and some active shooter situations are simply unpredictable. However, research indicates there may be signs or indicators. We’ve seen situations where, after random acts of violence, people come forward to report that the perpetrator had demonstrated concerning behavior prior to the incident. (Take the tragedies in Newtown, Connecticut and Parkland, Florida, for example.) It is heartbreaking to wonder whether these incidents could have been prevented if the behaviors were recognized and properly addressed.
If You See Something, Say Something
While warning signs alone do not necessarily mean that someone is planning a violent act, it’s important that if you see something, you say something. ‘Red flags’ not to be ignored include the following: an obsession with guns, violence, and mass shootings, being a target of bullying, extreme social isolation or withdrawal, easy access to firearms, aggressive or extreme behavior that escalates over time, and verbal or written threats. Behavior on social media is just as important as an individual’s in-person behavior.
Take note of and report any behaviors that seem concerning or suspicious to a supervisor or administrator. From there, they can proactively seek ways to prevent an incident with internal resources or seek additional external assistance.
Organizations turns to us to help them prevent, and prepare for, active shooter incidents. Contact D5 Consulting Group today for a free consultation.