Active shooter training for city hall
According to a study from the FBI about forty-five percent of active shooter incidents happen in business environments. Which is a larger percentage than schools, churches and other places.
A shooter with unpredictable reasons can target anywhere at any time in the U.S. Small towns are never the exception. That’s why City Hall in Pocatello has arranged an active shooter training day to stay prepared for the future. It’s to make sure members of City Council are alert in the event of an active shooter. Pocatello Police Detective Nick Edwards lead the training.
“Well, we’re certainly not immune to it we’ve been very close in the past and denying it doesn’t help, but certainly planning for it and preparing for it. And pray to God it never happens,” said Edwards.
He shared a presentation full of behind the scene incidents that happened during school shooting tragedies, such as Columbine, Virginia Tech and Sandy Hook Elementary. He discussed what law enforcement did in each incident, and why certain decisions were made from victims and police. Shootings like the ones in Orlando and San Bernardino were also discussed.
Edwards says the training presentation is a wake up call and a reminder for everyone to keep an eye on their surroundings. Because more than half of the time, the unexpected happens when we least expect it.
According to a few tips from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, if you’re stuck in a building with someone who has a gun with criminal intentions, do you know what to do? If you’re in a hallway, get into an office and lock the door. If you’re already in an office, and when it’s safe to do so, call 911 immediately.
These are the tips given when chances of escaping are slim. But if there is a chance to escape…
“Get out!” said Edwards.
“The standard has gone to avoid, deny, defend. The first step is to avoid it and leave. Leave as quick as you can.”
Edwards says if you’re legally permitted to own a gun, never go after an active shooter. When police arrive on scene, they may not be able to tell who the real active shooter is.
