In volatile times, the threat of active violence is real. For this reason, it is essential to prepare yourself and others to respond to situations of active violence.
What is Active Violence
Active violence incidents are a threat that can happen anytime, anywhere – often without warning. It is where an attacker is harming or attempting to harm people in public or a confined area. Active violence includes the use of firearms, bladed weapons, explosives, or may engage in other violent acts such as driving a vehicle into a crowd. Most active violence acts happen at workplaces, schools, and open spaces such as festivals and stations. It also occurs in places of worship and even personal residences.
These attacks are usually random, and there may or may not be a pattern in the selection of victims. But the fact remains that active violence evolves quickly, and rapid response is critical to saving lives.
2021 saw a surge of mass violence in the United States, but not in Australia. The country down under has had no mass shooting incidents since the year 1996. It is because Australia has some of the most strict gun laws in the world.
Despite being relatively unfamiliar with random shootings and acts of violence, it is still essential to know what to do if one arises. This article covers preparing during and after active violence situations, including the need for first aid training. It gives you an idea of how one can prepare for such unexpected situations.
Before The Incident
- Do not assume that attacker stops, and it will never happen again.
- Be aware of your surroundings and look for any possible danger.
- Familiarize yourself with all room and building exits.
- Find a safe place to hide.
- Know your exact location address, including contact numbers.
- Have an escape plan
Discuss with others in the room how you would react in a possible active violence incident. Decide on where to exit, choose a sheltering in place, and assign assembly points.
What to Do in the Event of An Active Violence
Under immediate threat, the body and mind will react in different ways. Here’s what to do to protect yourself and help others during active threats.
- Be prepared and protect yourself.
The first thing to do in a violent situation is to ensure that you remain safe. Make sure the attacker has officially left the vicinity and is no longer a threat. You will be no help to others if you get an injury or, worse, get killed in the process of helping other people.
- Call for help
Getting help is the next crucial step in an active violence situation. Dial Triple Zero (000) for a landline or mobile phone and prepare specific answers for the questions. Emergency dispatchers will ask questions such as your location, number of casualties, and other specifics. Provide details as accurately as possible.
- Move victim carefully
It might not be the best option during an active threat, but moving a person is necessary in some cases.
Position the victim on a rigid board of sorts and maintain the neck and head alignment with the body. Once in place, secure the person with a belt, rope, or whatever is available before moving them.
- Provide first aid
With many possible injuries from violent attacks, it is essential to learn first aid.
A bleeding injury from gunshot wounds is what we expect in an active violence situation. Bleeding control is the priority, followed by crucial order of response of ABC – Airway-Breathing-Circulation.
To stop the bleed, place firm pressure on the wound and use a dressing to clot and seal it. Use whatever is available such as gauze, clean cloth, or towels. Use a tourniquet if you know how to do so safely.
For unconscious victims, prepare to administer CPR. Check for breathing and pulse – if there are no signs of both, proceed with CPR.
Until you witness an active violence event firsthand, there is no guarantee of knowing how you’ll react. The best thing to do is to prepare and train to respond to such situations quickly and decisively.
Provide First Aid Training
One best way to prepare for an active violence incident is to get training. Not just any training available, but the ones that provide realistic scenarios and hands-on practice for emergency response.
First Aid Pro Adelaide provides life-saving techniques to help you prepare for potential danger. Learn how to react quickly in active violence situations and become an immediate first aider.
