In recent years, active shooter incidents have become a tragically familiar risk across workplaces, schools, public venues, and even hospitals. According to CNN and Gun Violence Archive, there have been 331 mass shooting events YTD (through October 5, 2025) alone in the U.S.
Training, preparation, and the proper security protocols are key for your organization when the unthinkable happens. Below are suggestions to put in place before, during, and after an incident with your security teams.
Preparation & Prevention (Before an Incident):
- Conduct threat assessments and security audits: examine entry/exit points, vulnerable zones, parking lots, blind spots, etc.
- Install physical security layers: access control, which can include badge screening, turnstiles, metal detection, and weapons screening when feasible. Investigating technologies like cameras, mass notification systems, etc., as an additional layer.
- Train staff in active shooter response: not just lockdown but options protocols (run, hide, fight) and coordinated drills.
- Define communication and evacuation plans: building-wide announcements, clear emergency roles and responsibilities, and evacuation plans with multiple egress paths.
Response & Control (During an Incident):
- Act decisively: within your training and authority.
- Execute the Run, Hide, Fight Options mindset: support escape, when possible, direct occupants to safe zones, and engage only if there is no other choice.
- Maintain situational awareness: monitor attacker movement, changing conditions, and lines of fire.
- Coordinate with backup security teams and law enforcement: relay real-time intel.
- Prioritize life safety by helping occupants and assisting the injured: If needed, provide first aid or life-saving trauma care until medical help arrives.
Post Event & Recovery (After the Incident)
- Account for occupants and provide status to first responders
- Assist law enforcement: with witness statements, CCTV footage, building layouts, etc.
- Secure the scene and preserve evidence when possible.
- Conduct after-action reviews: what worked, what failed, lessons learned. Revise training protocols and physical security measures based on lessons learned. Conduct refresher training regularly.
With proper training, regular drills, and coordinated planning with facility leadership and law enforcement, Security Guards can save lives and mitigate chaos when seconds count.
Inter-Con can help your company with conducting a risk assessment for your business and ensure your security coverage is ready and right for your business.