Responding to an Active Shooter (2024)

Payette County Police Department- Payette, ID

Mass shootings are increasing in frequency, says Payette Police Chief Mark Clark, though there is not just one reason why. Payette County law enforcement have gone through ALICE Training programs in learning how to react to active shooters. The acronym stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate. Its training emphasizes action over stagnation. For instance, instead of taking cover under a desk, the ALICE institute recommends creating a chaotic environment by either fleeing to safety, making loud noises or throwing things at the shooter. The chiefs also suggest leaving the room if the shooter is in a different location of the building. For example, if a teacher hears that a shooter is on the opposite side of the school, do not lock students in the classroom; rather, “get out,” Clark said. Read more