WHAT’S AT STAKE

Active shooter incidents can occur anywhere, including outdoor environments like landscaping work sites. The consequences can be devastating, making it crucial for landscaping teams to be prepared with a response plan. Understanding the risks and knowing how to react can save lives.

WHAT’S THE DANGER

The danger of active shooter situations comes from the unpredictability and rapid escalation of such incidents. Landscapers, who often work in open spaces with limited cover, may be particularly vulnerable.

Specific Risks

• Exposure in Open Areas

Landscapers typically work in open environments, making it difficult to find immediate cover or concealment.

• Limited Communication

Outdoor work environments may hinder quick communication of the threat to all team members.

• Lack of Immediate Law Enforcement Response

In remote or large outdoor work areas, it may take longer for law enforcement to arrive, increasing the need for effective self-protection measures.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

1. Run, Hide, Fight: The standard response protocol recommended by safety experts in the event of an active shooter.

• Run
  • If you can safely escape the area, do so immediately. Leave your tools and equipment behind.
  • Encourage others to leave with you, but do not wait for those who are hesitant.
  • Keep your hands visible and follow instructions from law enforcement when encountered.
• Hide
  • If escaping isn’t possible, find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely to find you.
  • Choose a location with a lockable door or solid barriers. If indoors, turn off lights and silence your phone.
  • Remain quiet and do not open the door for anyone unless you are sure it is law enforcement.
• Fight
  • As a last resort, and only if your life is in immediate danger, attempt to incapacitate the shooter.
  • Use any objects available as improvised weapons, such as tools, rocks, or even landscaping equipment.
  • Commit fully to your actions to increase your chances of overpowering the shooter.

2. Communication and Alerts

• Emergency Alerts: Use mobile phones or radios to immediately alert others on site about the threat. Establish a clear communication plan for emergencies.
• Designated Meeting Points: Pre-designate safe locations for regrouping after escaping or when law enforcement arrives.

3. Training and Drills

• Active Shooter Drills: Conduct regular drills to ensure all team members are familiar with the Run, Hide, Fight protocol and know how to react quickly in an emergency.
• Situational Awareness: Train workers to always be aware of their surroundings and recognize potential signs of an active shooter situation.

4. Cooperation with Law Enforcement

• Law Enforcement Response: Understand that when law enforcement arrives, their primary goal is to stop the shooter. Remain calm, keep your hands visible, and follow all commands from officers.
• Information Sharing: Provide law enforcement with as much information as possible, including the location of the shooter, description, and number of victims.

FINAL WORD

By knowing and practicing the Run, Hide, Fight protocol, maintaining communication, and cooperating with law enforcement, landscaping workers can better protect themselves in such emergencies.