Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Advanced Officer Certification Practice Exam

In an active shooter situation, what must an unarmed officer do?

1. Engage the shooter

2. Direct others to a secure location, call 911

3. Secure the scene

4. Hide until backup arrives

The correct answer is: Direct others to a secure location, call 911

In an active shooter situation, the priority for an unarmed officer is to ensure the safety of others while minimizing the risk to themselves. Directing others to a secure location is critical, as it helps to protect potential victims from harm. By guiding individuals away from the danger zone and towards safety, the officer can facilitate a quicker evacuation and reduce the likelihood of injuries. Calling 911 is equally important in this scenario, as it ensures that trained law enforcement can be alerted to the situation and respond appropriately. Communicating the details of the event, including the location and the description of the shooter, can significantly aid in the rapid response of emergency services. Engaging a shooter is not advisable for an unarmed officer, as they lack the means to effectively confront the threat and could instead escalate the situation. Securing the scene and hiding until backup arrives may not contribute to the immediate safety of others, and can potentially leave individuals vulnerable by not acting to ensure their escape or protection. In summary, the actions of directing others to safety and contacting authorities are crucial during an active shooter incident, emphasizing the importance of protecting lives over engaging directly with the threat.