Active Shooter on the loose: what do you do? Published Feb. 8, 2011 By Maj James Masoner 17th Security Forces Squadron Commander GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas-- -- Police will move quickly, but the actions you take may save your life and the lives of others around you. In the event of an active shooter situation, the base will sound the alarm via the Giant Voice with "Lockdown, Lockdown, Lockdown, Active Shooter, last known threat area is ___" and AtHOC messages on your computer. Your actions are: · Get in a secure room or area as quickly as possible; lock the door behind you if possible · Don't gather belongings and don't stop to help injured people...you might be next · Communicate the situation to others as you move · Stay away from doors and windows · Barricade doors with whatever is available · Call Security Forces only if you have pertinent information; limit other phone calls so systems don't crash (happens in almost every tragedy) · Do not respond to fire alarms unless you feel, see, or smell a fire · If the opportunity presents itself (gunman is reloading, not looking, etc), use force to overpower the subject, but do not seek the gunman out · If you are in a secure location, do not move around; wait until mass notification or Security Forces announcements clear movement When Security Forces enter the building, do not make any quick moves that might confuse cause them to confuse you with the suspect. Stay calm, keep your hands in the air and follow their instructions. Provide them with any information you may have that may help them locate the shooter. Once the situation is terminated, announcements will be made via Giant Voice, AtHOC, and word of mouth. At that time, ensure accountability is taken of all personnel. Look for injured personnel and anything that might cause harm to personnel. Remember, the shooter may have placed explosive devices around the area. Immediately notify Security Forces if anything is found. There are many lessons learned from previous active shooter situations. Telephone and cell phone lines will quickly become overloaded, hindering law enforcement and medical response. People fled to places that could not be locked down. People called or texted the situation to media outlets which further complicates the situation for Security Forces and base agencies. But the most important lesson learned: preparing now will save lives when it happens.
