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Active shooter response
What is active shooter response?
Active shooter response refers to the set of actions and procedures to be followed in the event of an active shooter incident. An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area; these situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly, demanding immediate and decisive action from both the public and law enforcement. The primary goal of active shooter response protocols is to minimise casualties and neutralise the threat as quickly as possible. For the general public, the recommended response is often summarised by the 'Run, Hide, Tell' guidance, which advises individuals to first attempt to escape the area, then to hide if escape is not possible, and finally, to alert the police when it is safe to do so. This simple yet effective strategy has been widely adopted in the UK and other countries.
The 'Run, Hide, Tell' strategy explained
The 'Run, Hide, Tell' strategy provides a clear and memorable framework for action in the event of an active shooter incident. 'Run' encourages individuals to escape if there is a safe route, leaving belongings behind and insisting others go with them. 'Hide' is the next best option if escape is not possible, advising people to find cover from the gunfire and to barricade themselves in if possible. Finally, 'Tell' reminds individuals to call the police as soon as it is safe to do so, providing them with as much information as possible. This strategy is designed to empower individuals to take control of their own safety in a high-stress situation. By providing a clear set of priorities, it helps people to make rational decisions in the face of extreme danger. The 'Run, Hide, Tell' message is widely promoted by UK police forces and is a key component of their counter-terrorism advice to the public.
The role of law enforcement and first responders
While the 'Run, Hide, Tell' strategy is designed for the public, the response of law enforcement and other first responders is also critical to a successful outcome. In the UK, police are trained to respond rapidly and robustly to active shooter incidents, with the primary objective of neutralising the threat and preventing further loss of life. This often involves specialist firearms officers who are trained to enter the scene and confront the shooter directly. In addition to the police, other emergency services, such as paramedics and the fire service, also have a vital role to play. They are responsible for treating the injured and for helping to evacuate people from the scene once it is safe to do so. A coordinated and multi-agency response is therefore essential for managing these complex and challenging incidents.
