Active Shooter Response: Can a Comprehensive Approach Address the Existing Gaps?
Abstract
The Incident Command System (ICS), initially designed for handling wildfires in the 1970s, presents shortcomings when applied to active shooter events (ASEs). While effective for large-scale disasters like hurricanes or wildfires, the ICS model often leaves first responders unguided during the crucial first minutes of an ASE. This thesis examines the effectiveness of the ICS in ASEs by analyzing its use by law enforcement and fire/emergency medical services, revealing its inadequacies. Research indicates that most deaths in these situations occur in the initial minutes, yet ICS is often established much later. This thesis features a comparative study of peer-reviewed academic research, government agency data, and the policies shaping U.S. response models to assess what practices exist and how they have been implemented by first responders and civilians during ASEs. Despite the urgency required for such events, there is no national standard for first responders to address ASEs, leading to varied and sometimes ineffective responses. The increasing prevalence of ASEs, characterized by military-style tactics and weapons, underscores a pressing need for an integrated response model for both first responders and civilians. This model would not only expedite the response but could also provide effective guidelines for communities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1225430
Entities
People
- Carlos A. Mejia
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School