What should a PSO do first in an active shooter situation?

In an active shooter situation, the first priority for a Protective Security Officer (PSO) is to assess the situation. This assessment is crucial as it allows the officer to gather immediate information about the nature of the threat, the location of the shooter, the number of potential victims, and any other relevant details that could influence the response strategy.

By assessing the situation first, a PSO can make informed decisions about the best course of action to take. This may involve identifying safe evacuation routes for victims, determining if communication with law enforcement is possible, and understanding the dynamics of the threat. Without this foundational assessment, any actions taken—such as locking doors or attempting to engage the shooter—could lead to unintended consequences or escalate the situation.

The emphasis on assessing the situation before any direct engagement ensures that the safety of both the officer and potential victims is prioritized, allowing for a more strategic and informed response to the evolving circumstances of the event.