Churches and Nonprofits: Prevail in a Security Crisis
AUDIO VERSION
Respond to an active shooter threat with the Three Outs: Lock Out, Get Out, Take Out.
In this Ministry Pacific Insights interview, Strategos International President Vaughn Baker explains the company’s unique “Three Outs” approach to responding to violent threats. The Three Outs training contrasts with another active shooter response mantra: Run, Hide, Fight. The Three Out response differs significantly. Baker, an international authority on church security, explains that Run, Hide, Fight – however well intended – often results in misunderstandings that can prove fatal. How?
“Run” sounds simple enough. But run where? Testing has demonstrated people inside a building cannot reliably determine the source of gunfire. Often they run to the gunman instead of away from the shooter. Baker instructs people to “get out” only when they have an unobstructed path out of harms. Running blindly into a hallway could lead to sudden death instead of freedom. If a clear path is not available, then two other options are in play: Lock Out and Take Out.
“Hide” is perhaps most misunderstood component of Run, Hide, Fight. Regardless of intent, “hide” often leads to a deadly game of hide-and-seek with the killer. Hiding under tables or desks often proves fatal. Instead of spending their last few moments under a desk, Baker trains students to “lock out” the attacker by locking and reinforcing a door.
“Fight” is not left to “special ops” tacticians. Fighting should only be done when necessary, but sometimes it’s the only option. A key to fighting off attackers is the use of improvised weaponry including books, office supplies, chairs – anything that can destabilize an attacker and buy more time.
Another key differentiator between Run, Hide, Fight and the Three Outs is that the Three Outs can be used in any order. Run, Hide, Fight, on the other hand, is usually practiced sequentially. In other words, first you run. If that doesn’t work, you hide. And if all else fails, you fight.
The Three Outs model is based on the premise that circumstances always vary – even within the same room. The model is fluid. If you immediately come face to face with an attacker, you’ll need to fight. If you’re not sure the building is clear, it’s better to lock down a room and lay low until there’s an all clear. “Get Out” may not mean leaving the building. It may simply be fleeing a dangerous open space for a room that can be secured.
The Three Outs are part of comprehensive security training for both lay people and professionals taught by Strategos International, a leading provider of security training, consultation and service. Learn more at www.StrategosIntl.com.
Protect yourself from the threat of litigation with active shooter insurance
Ministry Pacific Insurance Services endorses the work of Strategos International. In addition, we provide liability coverage options for active shooter threats. Active Shooter Insurance provides funding for a legal defense in the aftermath of a violent incident at a church or nonprofit. Your organization may have done everything it possibly could to prevent an attack. However, a person injured in the attack (or a loved one of someone who was killed or injured) can still sue for negligence. Even if you prevail in court, you still have to pay legal fees to defend yourself. Contact Ministry Pacific to learn more about active shooter and other liability coverages that can protect your organization and its work.