Emergency Preparedness #6
Disturbed Person with a Weapon
Our newly authorized Emergency Operations Plan defines actions to be taken when a critical situation occurs on the property. This “all hazards plan” identifies twelve situations that could risk personal safety or property damage. Each emergency situation is designated as a separate annex with specific instructions. Let’s next look at Annex D: Disturbed Person with a Weapon.
DID YOU KNOW?
The average time an incident with an armed shooter lasts is only 7 minutes? Did you know that most fatalities from this situation are people lying still trying to hide?
DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS AN ARMED PERSON WHO IS DISTURBED?
Do you remember when you first learned to drive a car? No one would think of taking a driver’s test after just reading an instruction manual. You first take driving lessons. And practice driving.
The following procedures are to be followed (Follow A.L.I.C.E. = Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate):
- Alert others throughout the building that a shooter is present.
- Lockdown by barricading the room you are in, staying out of view and remaining quiet.
- Inform authorities by calling 911
- Counter if the shooter is present by throwing hymnals, chairs and other objects, and by creating a lot of noise to distract and confuse the shooter. Close in if possible to disarm the person.
- Evacuate when safe to do so.
- Follow instructions of identified police officers directing you where to go as you leave the building.
The tabletop exercise reenactment held on January 28, 2018, demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach. Future exercises will be held to properly train staff, leaders, members, and visitors. It will only work if most people know how to act quickly.
