We have been mesmerized by the blasting of the media reports all over TV.  We have also been taken aback how this could have even been remotely possible in a school environment such as this.

Over and over again, we are constantly bombarded by the media of sharing most memorable shootings and deadly attacks such as Columbine High School, the movie Theater, the Mall shooting and yesterday’s knife attack on over 20 children in a Chinese school.

Where does it end?  We may never know the answer to that question but the best thing we can do in the present is to comfort our children showing them how much we care about them, reassuring them that we are here to protect them and to help them debrief through this traumatic event.

What can us adults do to help our children and the public?  Be pro-active in your training and surroundings.  Those who are First Responders can tell you firsthand of what they have encountered on the streets, in people’s homes and out in public places.  

How do we protect ourselves from the evils in this World?

1)  Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

2)  In an Active Shooter situation, make sure you and others run to a room with a door and lock it.

3)  Hide away from windows or doors, anywhere from danger in a locked, secured room.

5)  Call 9-1-1 and speak quietly to dispatcher.  Report exactly what you are hearing, person(s) description(s) and answer Dispatcher’s questions as best as you can.

6)  Try to stay calm and keep those calm around you.

7)  Only open the door, after police after idenitfied themselves or have shown their ID to you.

Many good “Active Shooter” training videos are on YouTube.com that will show you what to do in case you are in this type of situation.  Or if you feel more comfortable, contact your local Police Department and ask how you can be prepared for this type of situation or receive training.

This information can also apply to malls, schools, offices, any where a shooting can take place.

– The NW Fire Blog offers are deepest sympathies to the many families who lost their loved ones on Friday, to the First Responders who had to witness the aftermath and continue to care for the survivors, Police Officers who were forced to search for the gunman and are investigating this terrible tragedy.  We know how hard this has impacted so many of you and the rest of the Country.

All we can do is offer up our thoughts and prayers as all of the Newton Community reels from this.  We are so sorry for your loss.  Please be reassured we are here to support you and offer any assistance that we can. 

(c) 2012 The NW Fire Blog