What should a security officer do during an active shooter situation?

During an active shooter situation, the most appropriate and effective response for a security officer is to follow emergency protocols and alert law enforcement. This response is grounded in the established procedures designed to minimize harm and ensure the safety of individuals present.

When faced with an active shooter, the primary responsibility of a security officer is to protect lives and facilitate a coordinated response. Following emergency protocols allows the officer to engage in actions that are guided by training, ensuring a structured approach to dealing with the crisis. Alerting law enforcement is crucial as these professionals are equipped to handle such high-risk situations with the necessary resources and expertise.

Attempting to challenge the shooter, evacuating without alerting others, or assuming no action is needed are responses that could lead to greater risk and chaos. Challenging the shooter could escalate the situation, potentially resulting in more violence and loss of life. Likewise, evacuating without notifying others could leave individuals unaware of the danger they are in, preventing them from taking necessary precautions to keep themselves safe. Lastly, assuming no action is needed disregards the critical nature of the situation and the imminent threat posed by an active shooter, which can have catastrophic consequences.

In summary, by adhering to emergency protocols and ensuring that law enforcement is involved, a security officer plays