What should officers prioritize when responding to active shooter incidents?

In active shooter incidents, officers should prioritize neutralizing the threat and protecting civilian lives due to the immediate danger these situations pose. The primary goal is to prevent further loss of life. When officers engage the shooter as quickly as possible, they can reduce the potential for harm to innocent civilians. This proactive approach allows law enforcement to take direct action against the perpetrator, which is critical in minimizing casualties and providing a safer environment for those who may still be in harm's way.

While evacuating civilians is important, it becomes secondary to directly addressing the active threat. Establishing a perimeter and gathering intelligence on the shooter can be crucial components of an overall response but should not take precedence over the immediate need to protect lives. The swift neutralization of the shooter helps to restore safety and allows for the evacuation of civilians to occur in a more secure context.