Mike Cobb is an Active Shooter Team Training Leader for the City of Lawrence Police Department. He is an 18 year veteran of the department and a former SWAT Team member. Mike utilizes the CRASE training system: Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events to provide critical information for a life or death situation. Understanding human behavior is key to surviving an active shooter situation. Almost everyone tends to freeze when confronted with a shooter and they often look to others to judge their reactions. This failure to assess and act quickly can be fatal. The first rule is to Avoid; run away from the shooter if possible and call 911. Secondly, if escape is not an option, Deny the shooter access to your location by barricading the door. Lastly, Defend; you have the right to defend yourself by any means necessary. When police do arrive, follow their instructions and show your hands. Officer Cobb recommended breathing techniques to calm down. He also noted that shooters are motivated by high body counts and are not likely to listen to you. Always observe where the exits are in a room and be aware of your surroundings. This information can save lives.
