Active Shooter Response

Term from Police Services industry explained for recruiters

Active Shooter Response refers to specialized training and experience in dealing with emergency situations involving armed threats in public spaces. This is a critical skill in law enforcement where officers must know how to quickly assess, respond to, and manage incidents involving armed individuals threatening public safety. The training typically covers how to safely handle these high-risk situations, protect civilians, coordinate with other emergency responders, and follow established safety protocols. This term might also appear as "active threat response" or "critical incident response" in job applications.

Examples in Resumes

Completed advanced Active Shooter Response training at state police academy

Led Active Shooter Response drills for team of 20 officers

Certified instructor for Active Shooter Response and Critical Incident Response protocols

Participated in 15 multi-agency Active Threat Response exercises

Typical job title: "Law Enforcement Officers"

Also try searching for:

Police Officer Security Officer Law Enforcement Trainer Emergency Response Officer Public Safety Officer Security Specialist School Resource Officer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop and implement an active shooter response training program for a department?

Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss creating comprehensive training plans, coordinating with multiple agencies, setting up realistic scenarios, and evaluating officer performance. They should mention the importance of regular updates to protocols based on new threats and lessons learned.

Q: What experience do you have in leading multi-agency response coordination?

Expected Answer: Look for answers showing experience in organizing joint training exercises, establishing clear communication protocols between different agencies, and managing complex emergency response scenarios involving multiple departments.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Describe your experience with different active shooter response protocols.

Expected Answer: Candidate should demonstrate knowledge of standard response procedures, explain how to assess threat levels, and show understanding of when to apply different tactical approaches.

Q: How do you handle communication during an active shooter situation?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of radio protocols, coordination with dispatch and other responders, and ability to maintain clear communication under stress.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic principles of active shooter response?

Expected Answer: Should know the fundamental safety protocols, basic tactical movements, and primary objectives of containing and neutralizing threats while protecting civilians.

Q: How do you maintain situational awareness during high-stress situations?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic observation techniques, stress management, and importance of following established protocols.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic active shooter response protocols
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Radio communication basics
  • Physical fitness and tactical movement

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced tactical response techniques
  • Team coordination in crisis situations
  • Emergency medical response
  • Public safety leadership

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training program development
  • Multi-agency coordination
  • Crisis management leadership
  • Policy development and implementation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal active shooter response training certification
  • Poor physical fitness level
  • Inability to work under extreme stress
  • Lack of firearm qualification
  • No experience with team-based tactical operations
  • Poor communication skills

Related Terms