Active Shooter Response: Avoid, Deny, Defend
At my Retail Job I’ve had the opportunity to receive training through the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) program, which focuses on the Avoid, Deny, Defend (ADD) strategy. This training is designed to help employees and really, anyone know how to respond in the terrifying event of an active shooter situation.
The reality is, while we hope never to face such circumstances, preparation can make the difference between panic and survival. ALERRT emphasizes that you have the legal right to protect yourself, and it equips you with practical steps to increase your chances of making it through safely.
Here’s a breakdown of the ADD strategy and how it applies in real life:
1. AVOID – Stay Alert and Get Away
The best way to survive is to not be in the path of danger to begin with.
Stay aware of your surroundings. When you enter a building, take a mental note of exits, stairways, and alternative routes.
Have a plan in mind. If something feels wrong, trust your instincts.
Move quickly and calmly. Don’t wait for others to make the first move—if you see a chance to get away, take it.
Create distance. The more barriers you put between yourself and the attacker, the safer you’ll be.
2. DENY – Make It Hard for the Threat to Reach You
If escaping isn’t possible, your next step is to make it as difficult as possible for the attacker to get to you.
Put obstacles in the way. Lock or barricade doors with heavy furniture, shelving, or any large objects nearby.
Go dark and quiet. Turn off lights, silence your phone, and stay hidden behind something solid.
Stay out of sight. The attacker is looking for easy targets—if they can’t find you, you’re harder to harm.
Create space. Even a few extra seconds can give law enforcement time to arrive or give you another chance to escape.
3. DEFEND – Protect Yourself if Necessary
This is the last resort—but if your life is in immediate danger and there are no other options, be prepared to fight.
Commit fully. Your survival depends on it.
Be aggressive. Target vulnerable areas like the eyes, throat, or groin.
Use your environment. Chairs, fire extinguishers, or even a pen can become tools for defense.
Do not fight fair. In this situation, survival is the only priority.
After the Threat: Call 911 and Cooperate with Law Enforcement
Once you’ve made it to safety, call 911 immediately and provide as much information as you can. When officers arrive, remember:
Show your hands clearly. They need to quickly identify you as a non-threat.
Follow all commands. This helps keep everyone safe and allows law enforcement to respond effectively.
Final Thoughts
No one ever wants to imagine themselves in an active shooter situation, but being unprepared is far more dangerous than facing the possibility. ALERRT training and the Avoid, Deny, Defend strategy have taught me that awareness, preparation, and quick decision-making can truly save lives.
By staying alert, practicing these steps, and knowing that you have the right to protect yourself, you can greatly increase your chances of survival.
Stay aware. Stay prepared. Stay safe.
https://www.avoiddenydefend.org/
Texas state university advanced law enforcement rapid response training
