In March 2022, the FBI released the Active Shooter Incidents in the United States in 2021 and detailed the sharp increase in these events. What is an active shooter, and how can you keep yourself and your family safe? Let’s discuss the facts and then move on to what you can do to improve your overall safety.
What is an Active Shooter Incident?
The FBI defines an active shooter as “one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area.” Here are the 2021 statistics presented by the FBI:
- 61 incidents across 30 states
- 243 victims (103 killed and 140 wounded)
- Only 17 shooters were engaged by law enforcement
- 11 shooters committed suicide
- 14 shooters were killed by law enforcement
- 4 shooters were killed by a citizen
- 30 shooters were apprehended by law enforcement
Likely Locations
So where do these tragic incidents occur? Anywhere and everywhere is the answer. Take a look at the locations in 2021:
- 32 incidents in areas of commerce
- 2 incidents in education facilities
- 3 incidents in government buildings
- 19 incidents in open spaces
- 3 incidents in residences
- 1 incident in a house of worship
- 1 incident in a health care facility
What can you do to protect yourself and your family? First, know that these incidents can happen anywhere and at any time, so you need to be prepared. You can prepare by learning what to do in an active shooter incident and by learning how to improve your situational awareness. People largely live in a world where we don’t expect to be a victim of crime and especially not an active shooter incident.
Practice “If You See Something, Say Something” Often
Everyone knows the saying “if you see something, say something,” and we need to practice this more often. In the majority of the active shooter incidents, the shooters displayed some traits and/or triggers that indicated they were becoming dangerous. You should find a training course where you can learn what these indicators are so you know and can act if needed. Spread the word about organizations like Hold My Guns that partner with gun stores or federally licensed firearms dealers to temporarily take possession of firearms for those who are experiencing mental health issues.
Call us today if you are interested in crisis management training for active shooter response and situational awareness training.