What is the primary goal in an active shooter incident?

In an active shooter incident, the primary goal is to help the victims. This focus is central to emergency response protocols, as the immediate priority is to provide medical assistance to those who have been injured and to ensure the safety of individuals in the vicinity.

When an active shooter situation unfolds, there are often many casualties or individuals who may be in shock, needing urgent medical care. First responders are trained to triage the situation, prioritize victim assistance, and quickly assess who requires the most immediate help. This approach is in line with the "Rescue, Removal, and Recovery" paradigm, where the preservation of life is paramount.

While securing the area, evacuating the premises, and apprehending the shooter are crucial components of a comprehensive response to an active shooter event, the swift provision of care to victims remains the foremost goal. This perspective helps ensure that emergency responders act in a way that maximizes the chances of survival for those injured in such critical incidents.