Training Helps Save Lives in Dangerous Situations

When an active shooter is out to hurt people, the first law officers on the scene will do all they can to stop the threat. They are also now calling for emergency rescue teams to enter the zone as soon as they can safely get them in, even if the suspect or suspects have not been caught.

In the past, they have been held back, but that could be changing as long as there’s an adequate force on scene to protect the rescuers who are trying to get to the wounded and rush them to the nearest hospital.

Real life tragedies have raised response concerns across the country, but already planning sessions, drills and the review of real life confrontations are creating new ways to get in, get to victims and get them help.

Many local agencies have been working together on upgraded plans. Some already have unified working relationships if multiple departments are called in or several different SWAT teams.

Newer safety equipment and special shields can provide upgraded protections, and even create a barrier while victims are collected and carried out to awaiting medics.

The Armored Response Vehicle used by a SWAT teams is considered the biggest wall of protection that can be brought in.

When a shooter is active, the area is called a “hot zone.” When the situation is over it’s a “cold zone.” If the shooter moves away from the initial scene, for example going to the other side of an airport or mall, the first scene becomes a “warm zone” and that’s where emergency responders hope medics can get in under the cover of protection to render aid.

Every situation is different, but the plans are always being reviewed and tested.

The bottom line is, more lives will likely be saved with this upgraded plan in the future.