"Michael Julian has written an excellent book. Practical, detailed, and a potential life saver if you find yourself in the midst of a targeted attack."
Active Shooter Preparedness: 5 Life-Saving Steps Everyone Must Know
In today's world, active shooter incidents have become a harsh reality. Whether at work, school, or in public spaces, active shooter preparedness can mean the difference between life and death. According to the FBI, the number of active shooter incidents has steadily increased over the years, making preparedness an essential skill for everyone.
The A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Training methodology provides a structured approach to survival, equipping individuals with the knowledge and mindset needed to navigate these situations. In this article, we'll explore five life-saving steps that align with the A.L.I.V.E. framework and can significantly improve your chances of survival.
Step 1: Awareness - Recognizing the Warning Signs
One of the most crucial aspects of active shooter preparedness is awareness. Recognizing early warning signs of potential violence can prevent tragedies before they unfold. These signs may include:
- Obsessive grievances or anger towards a specific group or institution
- Social withdrawal and increased isolation
- Threatening behavior or verbal aggression
- Sudden acquisition of weapons or an unusual interest in violent events
If you notice concerning behavior, report it to the appropriate authorities. Early intervention can prevent violence from escalating.
Step 2: Learn Your Environment - Plan Your Escape Routes
Being familiar with your surroundings is essential for a quick escape. Every location you visit-whether it's an office, school, or mall-should be assessed for:
- Nearest exits
- Potential hiding spots
- Barriers that could block a shooter's path
Create a mental map of escape routes and always have a plan in mind. Conduct regular safety drills at work or school to reinforce preparedness.
Step 3: Improvise - Use Everyday Objects for Protection
If escape is not possible, improvising can be a key survival tactic. Common objects can serve as defensive tools or barriers to slow down an attacker.
- Barricade doors using furniture to prevent entry.
- Turn off lights and silence electronic devices to avoid detection.
- Use available objects (fire extinguishers, chairs, or books) as shields or distractions.
Training your mind to think creatively in high-stress situations can increase your odds of survival.
Step 4: Violence - When Fighting Back is the Only Option
In some situations, fighting back may be your last and only option. When confronted directly, commit to acting decisively and aggressively:
- Aim for the shooter's eyes, throat, or groin-vulnerable areas that can disable them.
- Use makeshift weapons (fire extinguishers, scissors, heavy objects) to strike.
- Work as a group if possible-overwhelming the attacker can increase survival chances.
While this is a last resort, understanding that fighting back is sometimes necessary can shift your mindset toward survival.
Step 5: Exhale - Managing Trauma and Helping Others
Surviving an active shooter incident doesn't end once the threat is neutralized. The aftermath can be equally challenging. Here's what to do next:
- Administer first aid if safe to do so-apply pressure to wounds and assist others in distress.
- Stay vigilant-the situation may still be unfolding.
- Seek professional help-processing trauma is vital for long-term mental health recovery.
Why A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Training is the Right Choice
Knowing how to react in an active shooter situation can save lives, but training is essential to reinforce these survival steps. A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Training provides:
✅ Real-world scenarios to help you react effectively under stress
✅ Expert-led instruction on situational awareness, escape strategies, and self-defense
✅ Confidence-building techniques to keep you calm and decisive in emergencies
Being prepared isn't optional-it's a necessity. Take the next step in safeguarding yourself and your loved ones by enrolling in A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Training today. Click here to sign up and get trained to survive.
Hear From An A.L.I.V.E. Student Survivor Of The Las Vegas Massacre
"As a retired 32 year law enforcement veteran, with several years of SWAT and tactical experience, I learned some different unique perspectives as it pertains to civilians dealing with active threat situations. Very good class for civilians who may have never experienced reacting to a life and death stressful situation."
- Christopher C.
A.L.I.V.E. STANDS FOR:
Assess
Assess the situation quickly
Leave
Leave the area if you can
Impede
Impede the shooter
Violence
Violence may be necessary
Expose
Expose your position carefully for safety
INDUSTRIES WE SERVE
Corporations
Government
Healthcare
Places of worship
Schools & Universities
Venues
MICHAEL JULIAN
Creator of A.L.I.V.E.
A.L.I.V.E., which stands for Assess, Leave, Impede, Violence, and Expose, was created in 2014 when Michael began teaching his Active Shooter Survival philosophy throughout the United States. His book on the subject, 10 Minutes to Live: Surviving an Active Shooter Using A.L.I.V.E. was published in 2017 and the online version of the A.L.I.V.E. Training Program was launched in 2019 and is now part of the corporate security training program for companies throughout the world.
Why A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter
Survival Training Program?
The A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training Program is a comprehensive training program designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to survive an active shooter incident. Its emphasis on situational awareness and decision-making makes it a practical and effective approach to active shooter situations. By empowering individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and others, the program can help prevent tragedies and save lives.