Would you know what to do if danger began to develop when you least expect it? How to avoid or prevent an active shooting from even happening? Prevention is not just a strategy, it’s a necessity that could save lives. Especially yours. Let’s explore how to stay steps ahead of potential threats.
Identifying Potential Threats
Being vigilant about your surroundings is key to spotting potential threats early. Watch for unusual behaviors or signs of distress in others, such as severe agitation, muttering threats, or displaying overt signs of radicalization or resentment. Both in the workplace and at home, encourage a culture where these concerns can be raised and addressed safely.
Risk Assessment and Management
Risk assessment isn’t just for professionals; it’s something you can do every day. At work, ensure your environment has clear escape routes and that everyone knows them. At home, think about access points and how you can secure them. On your commute, be aware of your surroundings and note safe places you could go if something happens. Constant vigilance and planning ahead can significantly reduce risks.
Creating a Safe and Secure Environment
Ask any venue that has been the scene of an active shooting. They all wish they had had better security measures in place.
Creating a safe environment involves more than just physical security measures. It starts with a mindset of safety that prioritizes awareness and preparedness. At work, this could mean having access controls and surveillance systems. At home, it could involve investing in security systems
Implementing Security Measures
Security is an investment in your safety and peace of mind. Conducting a site assessment with a professional can help identify vulnerabilities in your business, school, or home setting. Whether it’s improving lighting, installing security cameras, securing open doors, enforcing access controls, or even gauging the awareness of your team, each measure adds a layer of protection that can deter potential attackers.
Providing Education and Training for Employees and Students
Awareness and training can transform passive bystanders into prepared preventers or responders. Regular drills, situational awareness training, and education on recognizing signs of potential violence can empower employees and students. These practices don’t just prepare individuals for active shooter scenarios; they enhance overall safety and security awareness.
Summary
An ounce of prevention truly is worth a ton of cure. By taking proactive steps to identify threats, manage risks, secure environments, and educate those around you, the likelihood of an active shooter incident can be significantly reduced. Remember, the best way to survive such an incident is to prevent it from happening in the first place.
Recommendations
- To learn more, take an Active Shooter training course. Gain from life-saving advice you will never forget to help you and your team strengthen your prevention strategies and survive if the worst happens.
- Do Regular Drills and Reviews: Make safety drills a regular part of your routine at home and work. “What do you do?” drills and “What do you say?” drills are virtually free, and yet some of the best preventive measures you can take.
Review, discuss, and update your safety protocols regularly to adapt to new threats or changes in your environment.
Refuse to be a Victim…
For more information and help to Protect What YOU Value Most, check out our inspiring courses at https://freestatesafetytraining.com/courses
