What Does The R In React Represent Active Shooter

What Does the "R" in REACT Represent in Active Shooter Response?

The acronym REACT is frequently used in active shooter training and response protocols. Understanding each letter's meaning is crucial for survival and effective response in such a terrifying situation. While the entire acronym is vital, this article will delve deep into the "R" in REACT – Run. We'll explore why running is the primary response, when it's the best option, and what considerations must be made before, during, and after evacuation.

Understanding the REACT Method

Before focusing on the "R," let's briefly review the entire REACT method:

• Run: Evacuate the area immediately if possible.
• Evade: If you can't run, find a place to hide and barricade yourself.
• Act: As a last resort, if your life is in imminent danger, fight back with whatever you can.
• Teach: Following the incident, share your experience to help others prepare.

This method emphasizes a layered approach to survival. Running is the first and often most effective option.

Why "Run" is the Priority in Active Shooter Situations

The "R" in REACT – Run – isn't just a suggestion; it's the highest priority action in active shooter response training. Here's why:

Speed and Distance are Your Greatest Allies

Your primary goal is to put as much distance between yourself and the active shooter as possible. Time is not on your side in these situations. Every second counts, and the longer you stay in the vicinity, the greater your risk of injury or death. Running creates distance, minimizing your exposure time.

Situational Awareness: Know When to Run

Effective running relies on situational awareness. Before running, quickly assess:

• The Shooter's Location: Is the shooter visible? Do you know their approximate location? If the shooter's location is unknown, your escape route may need adjusting.
• Escape Routes: Identify at least two escape routes. Have backups in case your primary route is blocked.
• Potential Hazards: Look for potential obstacles like furniture, crowds, or stairs that could hinder your escape.

Effective Escape Strategies: More Than Just Running

Running isn't just about sprinting blindly. It's about strategic movement:

• Teamwork: If possible, escape with others. Strength in numbers can offer mutual support and increased awareness.
• Avoid Crowds: Crowds can hinder your movement and potentially create bottlenecks that would provide a perfect shot for a shooter. Try to find your own escape path.
• Help Others If Possible (Safely): If you can safely assist others in their escape, do so, but prioritize your own safety above all else. A single casualty is one too many, but don't put your own life at risk to save others.

When Running Isn't Possible: The Limits of Evacuation

While running is the preferred action, there are circumstances where evacuation may be impossible:

• Shooter Blockage: If the shooter is directly blocking your escape route, running directly toward them is suicide. You need an alternate plan.
• Physical Limitations: Individuals with physical disabilities or injuries may not be able to run. Alternative strategies (Evading and Hiding) become crucial.
• Environmental Barriers: A locked door, a blocked hallway, or other environmental factors may restrict your ability to run. Again, this is where the other stages of REACT become important.

Understanding the "E" in REACT: Evading and Hiding

If you cannot run, the next step in the REACT method is Evading and Hiding. This involves finding a secure location to hide and wait for authorities to arrive.

Key Considerations for Hiding and Evading:

• Secure Location: Your hiding place should be difficult to access. A locked room with a sturdy door is ideal. Lock and barricade the door using whatever materials are available.
• Silence and Darkness: Minimize noise and light. Turn off your phone. Stay quiet and remain still.
• Remain Hidden: Once hidden, stay hidden until law enforcement announces it is safe to exit.
• Communicate: If possible, silently alert emergency services of your location.

Items to Use to Barricade:

• Heavy furniture
• Office supplies (boxes, chairs etc)
• Anything available in the space

The "A" in REACT: Acting as a Last Resort

The "A" in REACT - Act - stands for fighting back. This is the most dangerous option and only to be considered as a last resort when your life is in immediate danger. It is never the ideal scenario, but sometimes survival necessitates fighting.

Fighting Back: A Last Resort

If you have no other choice, fight back using any available tools or weapons. Your goal is to create an opportunity to escape or to survive. Fighting back involves:

• Aggressive Action: Aim for vulnerable areas, such as the eyes, throat, or groin, as this increases the chances of disarming the perpetrator or enabling escape.
• Improvised Weapons: Use anything within reach as a weapon: chairs, pens, fire extinguishers, or even your own body.
• Teamwork: If you are with others, coordinate your actions to overwhelm the shooter.

The "T" in REACT: Teaching and Sharing Experiences

The final element of REACT, Teach, involves sharing your experience after the event to help others prepare for such situations. By sharing your knowledge, you can help to save lives.

The Importance of Post-Incident Education

Sharing your experience allows you to:

• Help Others Prepare: Your story can educate others on what to do in similar situations.
• Improve Response Protocols: Sharing what worked and what didn't can assist in developing improved active shooter response protocols.
• Increase Awareness: Talking about active shooter situations reduces stigma and increases community preparedness.

Conclusion: The Significance of the "R" in REACT

The "R" in REACT – Run – is not simply a component of an acronym; it is the cornerstone of an effective active shooter response strategy. Prioritizing immediate evacuation when possible is the most effective way to increase your chances of survival. However, understanding the entire REACT method—and being ready to adapt based on the specific circumstances—is crucial for maximizing your chances of surviving an active shooter event. While the thought of such events is terrifying, preparedness is paramount. Understanding the REACT method, and the crucial role of the "R" – running—is a vital step in preparing for any emergency situation. Remember, your safety is paramount.