You have probably prepared your commercial space for fires, thefts and other risks. Remember to address your active shooter risk, too. In addition to purchasing Active Shooter Insurance (Deadly Weapon Insurance), implement several tips that create a safe environment for your employees, customers and clients.
What is an Active Shooter?
The FBI defines an active shooter as “an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.” Typically, an active shooter uses a firearm, randomly selects victims and kills or injures multiple people.
Because an active shooter attack can last up to 15 minutes or longer depending on how long it takes law enforcement to arrive, your employees must be prepared to respond mentally and physically.
How to Prepare for an Active Shooter
Every active shooter situation is different, but you can do your best to prepare your staff.
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Create an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) with help from your HR department and local law enforcement.
The EAP includes:
A preferred reporting method.
Evacuation policy and procedure with clearly marked exits.
Emergency escape procedures and route assignments.
Notification system for law enforcement, hospitals and other necessary parties.
ADA accommodations.
Train managers. They should have an updated floor plan and the confidence to guide employees and building visitors to safety.
Conduct training exercises. Pretend an active shooter has entered your business and practice your EAP.
Provide hiding spots. If your staff can’t evacuate, they should know where to hide, how to barricade doors and how to conceal clients and customers.
Engage the shooter if your life is in imminent danger. Disrupt or incapacitate the shooter by acting aggressively, yelling or throwing objects.
How to Prevent an Active Shooter Situation
You can’t always prevent a stranger from entering your place of business. However, you can limit access to your building by installing locked doors, limiting key access or utilizing security pass codes.
Assemble crisis kits with floor plans, radios, emergency contact numbers, staff rosters, flashlights and first aid kits. If you host events, consider Deadly Weapon Event Insurance to address risks specific to public gatherings.
To prevent an attack by a disgruntled employee, take steps to foster a respectful work environment and train employees to “see something, say something,” a helpful strategy to recognize potential workplace violence.
You can also implement excellent customer service to reduce the risk of an attack by a customer.
Reduce your company’s active shooter risk and create a safe workplace environment when you follow these tips. They help you protect your company, employees, clients and customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in an emergency action plan?
An EAP should include reporting methods, evacuation procedures and routes, notification protocols, floor plans and accommodations for people with disabilities.
How often should staff train for an active shooter situation?
Regular training and periodic drills—at least annually and whenever significant changes occur—help keep responses familiar and effective.
When is active shooter or event coverage recommended?
Consider coverage if your business faces public-facing risks, large events, or any operations involving potential weapon exposure.
What belongs in a workplace crisis kit?
Include floor plans, radios or communication devices, emergency contact lists, flashlights and first aid supplies.