Be Aware – Prevent – Prepare
Oskaloosa Police Department
Oskaloosa, Iowa – Over the last few months, our nation was rocked with two tragic shootings that again shook our collective sense of safety and security. The first incident, a mass shooting in a movie theatre in Aurora, Colorado brought the grim reminder that horrific events can happen anywhere and at any time, even in a movie premier that attracted countless young people. The second incident reminded us that places of worship are certainly not off-grounds for those who desire to commit crimes and inflict pain on others.
The unanswered question of “why” haunts the families of those who were killed or injured, while also creating a question for all of us as to whether there truly is a “safe place” where we can go to be entertained or attend a worship service. The answers are complicated and some may never be known.
Unfortunately we don’t have the ability to predict what may happen in the future, so we must rely on the principals of personal safety. The first of which is prevention – by identifying the person who may be in crisis and to take steps to ward off these criminal acts before they occur. We must also focus on our awareness of known and potential threats. Finally, we must be prepared and ready to react to whatever may occur.
Be prepared by being aware. The chances of a shooting incident occurring are very slim and should not dominate your lifestyle or activities. But, being aware of who is around you is always a good prevention step. This goes not only for while you are in a public building, but also if you are out for a walk or in unfamiliar areas. If you feel uncomfortable because of someone’s actions, leave and come back later.
Educate your kids. Explain to them that bad things do happen to good people and that it is important they react appropriately when confronted with dangerous situations. Except in rare cases, putting yourself at risk doesn’t help the situation and often complicates or worsens it.
Get out and away… if it’s safe to do so. In most incidents, the best advice is to quickly get you out of harm’s way and leave the immediate area. There have been rare occasions where escape was more dangerous than staying. Think through scenarios with your family. What if you are in an office building and someone began shooting? What would you do if you couldn’t escape? Locking yourself in an office and hiding under a desk may be the best and only alternative. A quick 911 call (even if you are unable to speak , just leave the phone line open) will bring the needed help.
Last and certainly not least is reporting. If you witness something suspicious, tell someone. If you are at a facility that has security staff, report it to them or call police so the situation can be evaluated.
