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

Who should be notified first in the event of an active shooter situation?

1. Local authorities

2. Media personnel

3. All hospital staff

4. The public

The correct answer is: Local authorities

In an active shooter situation, the first priority is to ensure the safety of individuals and to respond to the immediate threat. Local authorities, such as law enforcement, should be notified first because they are trained and equipped to handle violent incidents. They can mobilize a rapid response team, assess the situation, and provide the necessary resources to address the threat effectively. This quick communication with law enforcement can also help contain and neutralize the threat more efficiently, thus saving lives. While it is important to eventually inform hospital staff and manage communications with the media and the public, these actions should occur only after ensuring that the proper emergency services have been alerted. Local authorities possess the expertise to manage such critical incidents, making their timely involvement essential in mitigating harm.