Active Shooter and TECC Programs in Public Safety Agencies: A Guide to Enhancing Response and Saving Lives (EMS)

Active Shooter and TECC Programs in Public Safety Agencies: A Guide to Enhancing Response and Saving Lives (EMS) 

Andrew Rowley – SOARescue

In recent years, the ever-growing rise in active shooter incidents has underscored the critical need for public safety agencies to equip themselves with effective strategies for response and mitigation. This lecture explores the integration of Active Shooter (AS) and Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) training, policies, and equipment within public safety agencies to enhance preparedness and save lives in high-risk situations. 

We will examine the evolving landscape of AS incidents, emphasizing the importance of a proactive and coordinated response from law enforcement, fire departments, emergency medical services (EMS), and other relevant stakeholders. Through case studies and statistical analysis, participants will gain insights into the dynamics of active shooter situations and the imperative for swift, decisive action. 

Building upon this foundation, the lecture delves into the principles of TECC, a framework designed to provide first responders with the skills and knowledge needed to treat casualties in the tactical environment. Drawing from real-world scenarios and best practices, attendees will learn how TECC integrates seamlessly with AS response protocols, enabling responders to prioritize care amidst chaotic and potentially dangerous conditions. 

From there, we will identify the next steps. How to begin, maintain, and advance AS/TECC Programs. There is not one size that fits all programs. Finding a starting point as well as a plan to maintain currency. What it looks like to increase stakeholder “buy in” and justification for investment in training and infrastructure. This lecture is not to explain the need for a well- established AS/TECC program but to visualize a general pathway to success in implementation.