A LACK OF KNOWLEDGE IS NOT AN EXCUSE FOR LOSS OF LIFE.

In 2013 the Department of Homeland Security provided approximately $287,000 to the City of Houston to make and release a video titled: “Run, Hide, Fight.” The theory was that if “Stop, Drop, and Roll” can save children, “Run, Hide, Fight” might save children and others in a different context. Based on evidence based research though, it is our belief that “Run, Hide, Fight” is no longer an adequate solution as it addresses the threat from a defensive point of weakness and fear through. We need to be on the offensive, and we need to act before the threat commences. With that in mind, we are pleased to introduce the PRO Model – a new National Standard of Active Shooter Prevention.

PREVENTION, RESPONSE, & OPTIONS (P.R.O.)

Many will read these three words and think we have simply pivoted from “Run, Hide, Fight” to “Prevention,Response, and Options.” That is why you must read on.

Prevention

Nearly everyone prefers preventing incidents, attacks, and tragedies rather than responding to them, yet budgets are mostly focused on First Responders, not First Preventers. Prevention is possible and it is happening with the early adopters of the framework we have identified: organizations who realize their people deserve better training and tools, not words that cultivate fear. We are helping these organizations evolve from the fear-based “Run, Hide, Fight” response model to a proven model of prevention.

Response

First Responders, having specialized training to render aid and stop a bad actor once a threat is engaged, is critical. There is no disputing that we need First Responders. However, when we look at an emergency through the lens of First Responders being the front line, we leave so much on the table regarding protection and prevention. This gap should be filled by First Preventers.

Our model and framework for developing leadership in prevention is the cutting edge of security. We have seen this evolution in fire safety, and we are witnessing that same progression in security regarding active shooter events and other acts of domestic terror.

Options

From one organization to the next, there are a variety of needs and a multitude of security-related resources available. With the PRO model, we transcend both Prevention and Response by assessing what Options are available. Our model is multi-directional because we provide these options and help assess what solutions fit best for an organization. The PRO model gives you the best chance for Prevention first and foremost and a better Response when all else fails.

These three concepts on their own are just part and parcel of programs in place across the nation and beyond. However, when a model is built from the ground up and combined into a system, the three words become the tenets of an encompassing plan that transcends simple words that are easy to remember, but ineffective in preventing active shooter events.

Let’s take another look at the fire motto brought to bear to save children: “Stop, Drop, Roll.” In describing a method to roll a program out, what better one to view than the one credited for saving children? After all, a child has not died in a school fire in over 50-years. Yet in 50-years, have we not been implementing other options, concepts, strategies, investments, and studies in the prevention of fire? Of course, we have!

Fire department funding has been on the rise, training for fire personnel continues to expand, and departments within departments of non-bureaucracy have been introduced and credited with lifesaving initiatives.

Thus, when a model is built from the ground up using research-based data and lessons learned, Prevention, Response, and Options (PRO) become the tenets of an encompassing framework that will help to prevent active shooter events from occurring and result in more lives saved.

Why the Fire Model Works

The comprehensive strategies put forth over a national policy stopped the deaths by fire of children in schools in its tracks. Buildings are being created safer based on a defined “fire code” and are inspected against that code before the fire departments even get involved. They have added alarms, water systems, signs, exercises (fire drills), inspections, training, marshals, more inspectors, visits from on-duty firefighters, hydrant checks, and a lot of community involvement as well. These examples do not even scratch the surface of how broad of a program the fire prevention strategy is in America. The lives lost to create a system of lives saved are remarkable and reasonable. This statement can be regarded as general public sentiment. It’s time to take this strategy and leverage it toward saving more children from a growing pattern of violence. What better way to do it than; “PREVENTION.”

P.R.O.

As a group of coveted Active Shooter Prevention, Domestic Terrorism, and Security professionals, we implore you to think about the commonsense approach to this concept. The idea of transcending political boundaries, a common goal of saving lives, the idea of not dividing classes by Constitutionally subjective changes, or even mandating a one size fits all approach. Instead, let this community of experts (more than the top 10-across the domestic terrorism and active shooter spectrum) take the initiative and adjust the programs to save lives.

Contact Chris, today, for a consultation quote.

Contact Chris

P.R.O. Model