BY JENN SAMSEL
Special to the Monitor
Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook’s community outreach program, Sheriff’s Net, held a special presentation on Thursday, April 24, at the First Baptist Church in Keystone Heights.
The Civilian Response Active Shooter Events (C.R.A.S.E.) presentation underscored the importance of community preparedness.
The presentation was given by
Deputy Matt Edmonson. He showed a video of several scenarios and went in-depth on how to prepare.
Each year, according to the sheriff’s office, there are about 567 gun violence events in the US. Throughout the decades, gun violence in which the shooter has no connection with the victims has increased by 64%.
Fifty percent of attacks happen in businesses, 20% occur outdoors, and 15% in schools and at other events.
Risk factors for active shooters are a history of violence, exposure to violence, substance abuse/dependence, mental illness, and a history of suicidal thoughts.
Practical knowledge is key in an active shooter situation. Knowing where all the exits are is crucial. The 1 Avoid = Run, 2 Deny = Hide, 3 Defend = Fight strategy provides a practical approach to survival. Remember, it’s always best to run.
Things to remember: be aware of your surroundings, do not hesitate, such as freezing, and go to the closest, safe exit.
The sheriff’s office held a large-scale active assailant training exercise earlier Thursday morning at the Thrasher-Horne Center in Orange Park. This exercise simulated a real-life active shooter situation, allowing law enforcement and emergency response teams to practice responding and coordinating in such a crisis.
According to the sheriff’s office, “The simulated active shooter response is part of our ongoing commitment to preparedness and public safety.”
In the event of such a situation, Stop the Bleed is a great program that teaches civilians how to stop victims from bleeding. Clay County Fire Rescue, in collaboration with other local agencies, offers classes on it.
