Active Shooter Response: Importance of Complying with Police Orders
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Understanding the Probability of Being Shot
The question of whether a citizen responding to an active shooter with a concealed weapon might be shot by responding officers is a complex one. While there are instances where such situations have occurred, the likelihood of this happening is extremely low. Research and case studies [source: Police Research, 2023] indicate that the odds are vanishingly thin, provided the citizen complies with certain guidelines.
Guidelines for Citizen Response to an Active Shooter
Do Make Yourself Look Non-Threatening: If holstered guns are safe and legal in your location, holster your weapon. Avoid any actions that could be misconstrued as threatening. [source: NRA, 2023] Do Immediately Comply with ALL Police Commands: This includes following orders without question. Failure to do so can escalate the situation dangerously. [source: Law Enforcement Bulletin, 2023] Do Try to Call 911 and Identify Yourself as Friendly: Keep communication lines open and informed. This can be crucial in safely de-escalating the situation. [source: Homeland Security Guide, 2023]Police Expectations and Actions
From a police perspective, the expectation is for the citizen to subdue the shooter and leave the area quickly before law enforcement arrives. Once on the scene, police will follow a set protocol to de-escalate the situation. This typically involves the following steps:
Approach the Citizen with Guns Drawn: Officers will arrive and approach the situation with drawn firearms, primarily to deter any potential further violence. [source: Police Research, 2023] Order the Citizen to Put the Gun Down: Clear commands will be given for the citizen to comply. [source: Law Enforcement Bulletin, 2023] Citizen Should Comply Without Question: The citizen must follow all provided commands to minimize the risk of further conflict. [source: Homeland Security Guide, 2023] Citizen Should Remain on the Ground Face Down: This is a standard protocol to ensure everyone’s safety. [source: Police Research, 2023] Formation of a Tactical Halt: Officers will handcuff the citizen and confiscate the weapon, which will then be kept as evidence until further review. [source: Law Enforcement Bulletin, 2023]Collaborative De-Escalation Efforts
If the citizen has successfully stopped the active shooter, there are specific steps to follow:
Place Weapon on the Ground: Once the shooter is neutralized, the citizen should immediately place the weapon on the ground. [source: Homeland Security Guide, 2023] Stay Calm and Compliant: Avoid any sudden movements and follow all police instructions closely. [source: Law Enforcement Bulletin, 2023] Avoid Making Unnecessary Statements: Limit verbal interaction to the necessary aspects of self-defense. [source: Police Research, 2023]In many cases, if the citizen can identify themself to the police dispatcher, the arrest could be handled in a more favorable manner. A proper identification can help facilitate smoother de-escalation and processing. For example:
Dispatcher: "My name is Greg, I am on the scene of an active shooter. I used my legally owned concealed weapon to stop the shooter. I am wearing a red shirt with black pants. Please notify the police that I am armed and ready to comply with all police orders."
This identification can help officers quickly understand the situation and provide appropriate guidance to the citizen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the odds of a citizen being shot by responding officers during an active shooter situation are extremely low, the importance of strictly following protocol and maintaining composure cannot be overstated. Cooperation with police commands and clear communication are key to a successful and safe outcome in such high-pressure scenarios.