Two Mass Shootings in 24 hours: What does this mean for First Res-ponders?

In the past few days our nation has experienced two mass shootings. Both of these events have devastated communities and been a wake-up call for many. While political minds battle the gun control debate and families plan funerals, what does all this mean for first responders?

These tragedies show us that we can NOT get complacent. We need to be on top of our training and on our toes ready for these situations to occur. Many police, fire and ems departments have completed active shooter training. However, do these providers feel confident in the training? Are they reminded by their agencies to stay up to date on changes in training? Are there additional courses they could be taking to help further their education on handling mass casualty incidents like active shooter scenarios? We typically think of law enforcement, fire and ems when situations like these occur, however what other resources can community dispatchers call in? National guard, border patrol, American Red Cross, hospitals, etc...

The next big issue is the aftermath. First responder agencies should have debriefing of the MCI. There should be counselors available to talk to and first responders should know who to contact. PTSD is real and the rate of suicides in first responders is high. Let's make sure these brave men and women know where they can go for help. Events like these two shootings are often hard to process in the beginning. When the shock wears off, lets make sure our brothers and sisters know where to turn.

And finally, for the communities that were affected, we are here for you. Godspeed.