In today’s unpredictable world, active shooter preparedness can be life-saving. At A.L.I.V.E., we believe in empowering everyone with practical strategies to respond effectively in the event of an active shooter situation. Here are five critical steps you should know to enhance your safety and survival:
Step 1: Assess the Situation AND STAY ALERT
Awareness is your first line of defense. Always remain aware of your surroundings. At the first sign of danger-like hearing gunshots-immediately identify exits, possible hiding spots, and safe pathways away from the threat.
Step 2: LEAVE – Evacuate Immediately if Safe
Your primary goal should always be to escape safely. If there is a clear path away from the shooter, take it immediately. Leave belongings behind, keep your hands visible, and warn others to prevent them from walking into danger.
Step 3: IMPEDE – prevent attack if Escape Isn’t Possible
If escape isn’t an option, quickly impede the attach by creating barricades, or find a secure hiding place. Barricade doors, turn off lights, silence your phone, and stay quiet. Remain out of the shooter’s view and avoid drawing attention to your location.
Step 4: Violence – Fight Only as a Last Resort
If your life is in imminent danger and running or hiding is impossible, you may need to fight. Act with aggression, improvise weapons if necessary, and commit fully to incapacitating the shooter. Working together with others can significantly increase your chances of survival.
Step 5: Expose – Follow Law Enforcement Instructions
Once authorities arrive, expose yourself carefully and follow their instructions. Keep your hands visible, avoid sudden movements, and remain calm. Law enforcement’s first priority is neutralizing the threat and ensuring everyone’s safety.
Be Prepared. Stay A.L.I.V.E.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Equip yourself and your community with life-saving active shooter training and strategies from A.L.I.V.E.. Take the first step toward preparedness today.
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About the Author
Michael D. Julian is President of MPS Security & Protection and a 30-plus-year veteran of the security and investigations industry. He served as President of the California Association of Licensed Investigators (CALI) from 2005 to 2015 and has led executive protection, residential security, and corporate investigations engagements for Fortune 500 principals, high-net-worth families, and public figures across the United States. Connect with Michael on LinkedIn.