The term “active attack” is used to refer to any event in which an individual or individuals are attempting a mass murder. This could include the use of firearms, explosives, vehicle attacks, or any other weapon to inflict harm on a large number of people.
The agreed-upon definition of an “active shooter” by US government agencies (including the White House, US Department of Justice, FBI, US Department of Education, US Department of Homeland Security, and Federal Emergency Management Agency) is “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area.” In most cases, active shooters use firearms and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.
Active shooter situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Because active shooter situations are often over within 10 to 15 minutes, before law enforcement arrives on the scene, individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal with an active shooter situation. In most cases, active shooters use firearms(s) and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims.
The following terms are also use: Active Killer; Violent Intruder; and Active Assailant.
Following are quick links to resources to assist in your efforts. These are listed for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement by the Network.
Prepare
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HIPAA Privacy Rule
HIPAA covered entities and their business associates should be aware of the ways in which patient information may be shared under the HIPAA Privacy Rule in an emergency situation.
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Active Assailant- 2 Minute Drill
A local hospital shares their active shooter response protocol.
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The Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT)
In 2013, the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) was named the National Standard in Active Shooter Response Training by the FBI.
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ACEP Calls for Improved Emergency Response Measures
Watch the video
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Active Shooter Preparedness Fact Sheet
These are links to preparedness products and resources by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Respond
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U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - Incidents of Mass Violence FAQ and Info
Learn about who is most at risk for emotional distress from incidents of mass violence and where to find disaster-related resources.
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U.S. Department of Health & Human Services - Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program
The CCP helps individuals and communities recover from natural and human-caused disasters through community outreach and access to mental health services.
Recover
Case Studies / After Action Reports – Lessons Learned:
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Las Vegas Mass Shooting – Nevada Hospital Association
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Pulse Nightclub: Rescue, Response, and Resilience
A critical incident review of the Orlando public safety response to the attack on Pulse nightclub – Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), US Department of Justice
Other Helpful Links
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Everbridge Active Shooter Preparedness: A Collection of Resources
Everbridge has amassed a large collection of webinars, blogs, and white papers regarding active shooter preparedness.
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National Fire Protection - Standard for an Active Shooter / Hostile Event Response Program
Free access available by signing up on NFPA site.