Active Shooter Tips for Staying Safe
Active shootings are becoming more and more common in Texas, making it the 3rd state with the highest mass shooting count.
The recent incident of a mass shootout in an elementary school in Uvalde is a big tragic example of why everyone should know how to deliver first aid in such a situation. Unfortunately, most people don’t really pay attention to this, and as a result, many lose their lives during these terrifying events.
To ensure everyone around you is as safe as possible in an event of emergency, join a training program to learn to learn how to deliver first aid and save lives. This blog goes over the tips for staying safe during active shootings and how crucial it is to know proper first aid administration.
5 Tips on how to avoid getting injured in an active shooting scenario
An active shooting scenario is when someone has been identified as a threat, and gunfire is exchanged. It’s important to remember that you’re the only one who can protect yourself at this time so try your best to stay safe until law enforcement and/or emergency medical services arrive. Here are some very crucial tips to help you ensure your safety and others around you.
1. Move away from the shooter if possible
If you are stuck in an active shooting situation, move away from the shooter as quickly and safely as possible. If you can’t do that or if the shooter is in your way, seek cover – find a sturdy object to hide behind. Don’t try to engage them; your best bet is to avoid coming into their sightline.
Also, if you’re inside a room, barricade the door, and cover the windows to make it difficult for the shooter to come or look inside.
2. Stay away from windows and doors – They are no use to you
To ensure those around you during an active shooter situation stay safe, remind them that windows and doors won’t offer any protection. Bullets will go through them like paper, so your best bet is to try and find a place where you are less likely to be hit.
If you must stay in a window or doorless room, avoid being at the front or rear of the building – these positions are more likely to be targeted. Additionally, if gunfire erupts near you, don’t run towards it – instead, seek shelter behind something solid such as concrete slabs and furniture.
3. Inform the Authorities
Once you’re someplace safe and away from the shooter, call law enforcement and let them know what’s happening. Remember, do not ignore calling for help thinking someone else must’ve done it by now.
You don’t know whether people trapped inside have access to a phone or not or whether they are in a position to make a call. So call the authorities as soon as you are hidden in a safe spot. Also, put your phone on silent to ensure a call or message doesn’t give away your location.’
4. If injured, stay still and wait for help to arrive
If you are injured during an active shooting scenario, stay still and wait for help to arrive. Moving could alert the shooter of your location and complicate your situation.
Furthermore, the best thing to do is remain calm and decide whether or not to give yourself immediate medical attention. Knowing the signs of serious injury can be helpful in making this decision easier; Symptoms include:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Unbearable pain
- Blurry vision
- Swelling
- Limited motion
If you are not seriously injured, then try to help those stuck with you in a room or building. If someone is shot, stop the bleeding and immobilize the wound as soon as possible to prevent further injury or death. If the bleeding is uncontrollable, keep pressure on the wound until help arrives. Remember: first aid is crucial in any emergency situation!
5. Know your first-aid kit
Whenever there is an emergency, it is always important to have a first-aid kit handy. Look for the kit in most likely places such as bathrooms, kitchens or doctor’s office. Or, you can ask anyone familiar with the place where to find the kit.
The first aid box contains items that will be useful in treating wounds and stopping the bleeding. This could be anything from bandages and gauze to tape and stitches.
Now knowing how to administer first aid in this situation can be a blessing for those around you. You can use a first kit better if you know exactly what you need to do.
Who Should Learn to Deliver First Aid for Active Shooting Scenarios?
As the world becomes increasingly violent and active shooter events become common, it’s important that everyone knows how to deliver First Aid in an active shooting scenario. This includes civilians, law enforcement, and emergency personnel. Take an American Heart Association class from Texas CPR Training. It can be taught virtually anywhere in the USA by registering at Virtual Heartsaver Courses.
As per the 2021’s FBI report on active shootings in the U.S, out of 61 active shootings, 32 occurred in areas of commerce, while 28 occurred in public places.
So those who need to go through First Aid and CPR training the most include anyone working in the retail/commerce and education space.
Also, those responsible for overseeing populated areas like public parks, libraries, clubs, and concert venues should take first aid training as well because these places also likely to attract mass shooters.
Where To Learn to Deliver First Aid in Texas?
An active shooting scenario can be terrifying and even life-threatening. Knowing how to deliver first aid is one of the most important skills you can have. As such, choosing the right course that will teach you the basics is critical. There are many hands-on first aid training institutes available in Texas, and most of them offer certification as well.
Texas CPR Training also offers comprehensive, hands-on First Aid and CPR training. For those who’re interested in learning more and potentially saving lives, we offer a number of courses that take you from basics to the advance techniques of managing injuries and saving lives. With proper training, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any emergency situation.
In the Dallas, Texas area register for a blended class at https://texascpr.com/cpr-and-first-aid-training-of-dallas/
Out of state register for a Virtual CPR, First Aid, AED class at https://texascpr.com/virtual-heartsaver-courses/