COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Preparing for the Worst Case Scenario
An active shooter incident at an elementary school is one of the most chilling scenarios a first responder could prepare for. However, on Thursday, that’s exactly what various agencies from across Brazos County trained for, ensuring their readiness to protect citizens if such a call were ever made.
Integrated Response Training
“We want to put ourselves through the steps required in the initial 10 to 15 minutes so that we’re familiar with the process and don’t omit any crucial steps or make dangerous mistakes that could cost lives,” stated College Station Fire Department Capt. Stuart Marrs. This exercise did not constitute police training, but rather an integrated response to an active attack.
The simulation incorporated officers from College Station and A&M’s police, College Station Fire and EMS, Brazos County Sheriff Deputies, and private security officers. The hands-on exercise necessitated that these distinct groups collaborated as they neutralized the threat, located victims, coordinated the evacuation of students, and cleared the school.
According to Captain Marrs, a collaborative training of this nature is paramount in preparing for any potential future incidents. References in reports from past school incidents emphasize the importance of agencies coming together, practicing, and preparing to combat and mitigate such distressing events.
On-Site Training at College Hills Elementary School
The practical training session took place at College Hills Elementary School, one of nine campuses set to host similar training exercises during the summer. While it’s a grim situation to imagine, the Assistant Principal, Lindsay Dittmar, affirmed the necessity of being prepared.
“While the idea of such a response at our school isn’t something we want to think about, knowing we are prepared for such an event brings peace and comfort. It was reassuring to see, firsthand, our first responders’ readiness to ensure all of us are safe if such a threat were to arise,” Lindsay noted.
Utilizing Prop Guns for Training
Prop guns, funded by Federal and State grants, were used in the training exercise to make the setting as realistic as possible. These props will continue to be used throughout the summer for further training exercises across Brazos Valley.
Ensuring public safety remains an important task for law enforcement and emergency service agencies. As they continue their diligent work and preparation, residents of Brazos County can feel reassured knowing that their first responders are ready and willing to protect their communities should disaster strike.