'active shooter'.... I'm sure it has at least crossed your mind... on campus. Discussing "active shooter" or "active killer" situations is difficult. But, I'm sure it has at least crossed your mind as you prepare to teach or attend classes on campus. In 2015 I completed Advanced ALICE Training and certification. ALICE is a set of proactive strategies that increase chances of survival during an active shooter/killer event. It stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate.
I do not know what course of actions your college/university/workplace officially endorses (or advises against) in these life-threatening events. Though, most active killer events last 8 minutes, on average. It takes an average of 2-3 minutes before 9-1-1 is called, and even the most efficient police departments have response times averaging several minutes. This means that police often arrive on scene towards the end of the event. So, knowing what to do immediately to protect yourself and others is vitally important. Some universities are ALICE affiliates (and train all incoming students). Auburn University produced this 8 minute video, which provides a good overview of what you can do to stay safe. If you'd like more info or have questions, please ask and review the recommended guidelines of your local public safety officials. I'm also happy to share what I learned with you. Being mentally prepared, re: information and mindset, is just as important for survival as being physically able to react and respond. June Jordan was a poet, activist, teacher and essayist, born in Harlem in 1936. She wrote: Our earth is round, and, among other things, that means that you and I can hold completely different points of view and both be right. The difference of our positions will show stars in your window I cannot even imagine. Very spatial and philosophical. I like it!
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