By definition, an active shooter is an individual engaged in killing or aiming to kill within a defined area. DHS suggests that law enforcement and other security officials understand pre-incident warning signs and know typical characteristics of active shooters. Additionally, DHS recommends training a wide range of stakeholders to prevent, mitigate, and recover from active shooting incidents.
According to DHS, individuals must prepare both mentally and physically for potential active shooting scenarios. In a very short time frame, people must decide whether they need to evacuate an area where there’s shooting or seek out a safe hiding place. Alternatively, individuals may need to resort to an attempt to restrain or fight the shooter.