Chris Grollnek: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

FAQ & Answers Blog

Welcome to the FAQ & Answers blog, featuring insights from none other than Chris Grollnek, renowned as the Nation’s #1 Active Shooter Expert. In a world where safety and security are paramount, Chris Grollnek has dedicated over three decades of his life to understanding, preventing, and mitigating the impact of active shooter incidents.

In this exclusive blog series, Chris shares his wealth of knowledge, addressing the most pressing questions and concerns surrounding active shooter situations, crime prevention, and domestic terrorism. With a career that spans military service, law enforcement, and specialized security contracting, Chris brings a unique perspective to the table.

Whether you’re a concerned citizen, a safety professional, or someone looking to bolster your preparedness, this blog is your go-to resource for expert advice and actionable insights. Join us as we delve into the world of active shooter prevention and emergency response, guided by the expertise of Chris Grollnek. Your safety matters, and knowledge is your greatest asset. Let’s get started!

Q1. What is a notable case study of an organization that engaged in minimal planning before an incident and experienced significant impacts on their business, particularly in terms of reputation and brand damage?

A1. Several dissertations from the Naval War College have explored this specific topic. Additionally, you can examine real-world examples such as the Parkland incident, the Sutherland Springs, Texas shooting, and the legal actions taken against MGM, all of which illustrate the consequences of inadequate planning and their failure to be insurable for certain applications.

Q2. Considering ASPP’s emphasis on Run-Hide-Fight as the starting point, what additional elements or components should be incorporated into the RHF model?

A2. The model is designed as a “hybrid” approach, meaning it goes beyond simply teaching the three core principles and takes into account the specific industry or environment in question. For instance, in an elementary school setting, it may not be reasonable to expect the population to engage in the “fight” component. In such cases, it’s crucial to start by assessing the unique needs and limitations of the location.

For each setting, whether it’s a school or senior care facility, it’s essential to identify the gaps within the Run-Hide-Fight framework and address them accordingly. Running might not be a viable option in senior care, so a thorough assessment should be conducted to determine what alternative measures, training, or technology can be implemented to compensate for these limitations and ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to safety.

Q3. Do you have any recommendations for managing and preparing for this type of training while taking into account the potential impact on staff members who may have PTSD or anxiety?

A3. Stress-induced training has been widely recognized as an obstacle to effective learning and information retention across various settings. Even first responders, typically known for their resilience, can face challenges in such scenarios, as evidenced by instances of inadequate responses. Fortunately, there are seminars and webinars available that prioritize a stress-free environment while delivering valuable and informative content.

Q4. You mention the use of AI cameras for anticipating situations. Could you provide more details on how this is accomplished and suggest specific products or technologies to explore in this regard?

A4. Scylla is the one A/I product we recommend, as the false positive rate is at or near zero compared to the competition. The product is also superior, with a range of offerings the competition in gun detection can’t replicate yet.

Q5. What are your insights regarding the installation of indoor gunshot detectors?

A5. EAGL’s gunshot detection system features sensors renowned for their exceptional accuracy and detailed reporting capabilities within the market. These sensors utilize an energy detection mechanism to identify disruptions in energy, all while capturing auditory signatures. This advanced technology enables the system to not only detect gunfire but also provide critical information about the direction and caliber of the shots fired. We’ve had the opportunity to leverage this technology in recreating an active shooter incident for court purposes, and the results were nothing short of impressive.

Q6. How can we educate our children on protecting themselves in the event of an active shooter situation at school?

A6. Sharing an unconventional perspective here. I’ve advised my kid to prioritize getting out and finding an exit in an active shooter situation. Rather than worrying about the rare occurrence of second shooters, which accounts for less than 1% of incidents over a 25-year span, I recommend focusing on solving one issue at a time and ensuring their safety by promptly exiting the danger zone.

Q7. What strategies can be employed to persuade leadership to conduct active shooter drills, especially if they have previously experienced an active shooter event?

A7. It’s crucial to emphasize to leadership that no location, regardless of its perceived safety, is entirely immune to the possibility of an active shooter event. While some might assume that certain areas are less susceptible to such incidents, the reality is that this threat can manifest in unexpected places. To bolster overall preparedness and safety, it’s beneficial to introduce active shooter drills as an integral component of a comprehensive emergency response plan.

Furthermore, these drills should not be seen in isolation but as part of a broader strategy encompassing all-hazard preparedness. By integrating active shooter drills with general emergency response exercises, organizations can ensure that their staff and infrastructure are well-equipped to handle a wide range of potential crises effectively.

Highlighting this holistic approach reinforces the importance of readiness and resilience, underscoring that preparedness measures extend beyond just one specific threat. It’s about cultivating a culture of safety, adaptability, and vigilance that can safeguard an organization against various hazards, including active shooter situations.

Q8. What is the typical duration from the initiation of an active shooter situation to gaining control of the incident?

A8. Typically, one of the critical timeframes for active shooter incidents spans from the initial onset to the eight-minute mark when police arrive on scene. Crucial decisions and responses must be made, and individuals inside the event must recognize that they are first responders. Also within this window, it takes approximately 23 minutes on average to reach the first victim in these high-stress situations.

However, beyond this initial phase, the events that follow become significantly less predictable and more complex to measure in terms of an accurate time to conclusion. Factors such as law enforcement response, the presence of multiple shooters, the layout of the location, and the evolving dynamics of the incident can greatly influence the duration and outcome of active shooter situations.

Q9. What industries stand out as exemplary models for their active shooter preparedness initiatives, and what specific characteristics set them apart as leaders in this regard?

A9. Government entities have distinguished themselves as leaders in active shooter preparedness through their substantial investments of both time and resources in this critical endeavor. These investments reflect a commitment to the safety and security of their communities and citizens, making them exemplary models for others to follow.

Government agencies at various levels, from local to federal, have recognized the significance of proactive preparedness measures. They allocate significant time to thorough planning and the allocation of resources to develop comprehensive active shooter response strategies. These strategies often involve close collaboration with law enforcement, emergency services, and community stakeholders.

One key characteristic that sets government agencies apart as leaders is their dedication to ongoing training and education. They understand that preparedness is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment. As a result, they regularly update and refine their protocols, incorporating the latest insights and best practices to ensure they remain at the forefront of active shooter preparedness.

Q10. There are individuals who hold the belief that allowing them to carry their legally concealed weapons at their workplace could enhance their safety in the event of an active shooter situation. To substantiate or challenge this perspective, are there any available pieces of evidence that either support or contradict this belief?

A10. One need not look far back in history to find instances of armed individuals on school premises during shootings who, despite their desire to intervene, were unable to effectively respond until additional responders arrived. This serves as a poignant reminder that having the desire or intent to act as a first-line defender in such situations does not necessarily equate to possessing the requisite skills and capabilities for effective response.

While the intention to carry a concealed weapon for personal protection is understandable, it is equally crucial to acknowledge the complexities and challenges associated with active shooter situations. These high-stress, rapidly evolving scenarios demand a level of training and preparedness that goes beyond mere intent. As such, it is essential to recognize the distinction between willingness and capability when considering the role of armed individuals in responding to such incidents.

In a world where safety and security are paramount, knowledge remains our greatest asset. We’ve explored case studies, discussed strategies for improved training, examined the role of technology, and delved into the importance of government agencies’ leadership in preparedness. We’ve also tackled the contentious topic of carrying concealed weapons in the workplace.

As we conclude this blog, remember that safety matters, and staying informed is key. Continue to seek knowledge, develop preparedness plans, and work towards creating safer environments for all. Our collective dedication to security and resilience will undoubtedly contribute to a safer and more secure future. #NEVERHERE!