In today’s world, preparing for emergencies such as active shooter events has become an unfortunate necessity. One widely recognized method of preparation is ALICE training, which empowers individuals and organizations to respond proactively during these terrifying situations. This blog explores what ALICE stands for in active shooter training and how it equips individuals with life-saving strategies that go beyond traditional lockdown methods.
1. The Need for Preparedness
Active shooter events have occurred across various settings—schools, workplaces, and public spaces—and can lead to devastating consequences. Traditional methods of simply locking down and waiting for law enforcement to arrive have proven insufficient in many cases. In response, ALICE training was developed to offer a more proactive, flexible approach to dealing with these emergencies. By understanding what ALICE stands for, individuals can take control of their safety and that of those around them.
2. What Is ALICE Training?
ALICE, an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate, is a set of protocols designed to help individuals respond effectively during an active shooter situation. Developed in 2001 by Greg Crane, a former police officer, ALICE training emphasizes taking proactive steps rather than waiting passively for help to arrive.
ALICE training is used in a variety of settings, including schools, businesses, hospitals, and places of worship, and is designed to provide participants with a range of options when faced with an active shooter.
Goals of ALICE Training
The primary objective of ALICE is to empower individuals by giving them the tools they need to make decisions in real time. It shifts the focus from a single approach (lockdown) to a multi-faceted strategy that can be tailored to the specifics of the situation. By doing so, ALICE aims to reduce casualties and increase the chances of survival for everyone involved.
3. Breaking Down the ALICE Acronym
Each letter in ALICE represents a specific action step that individuals should take during an active shooter event:
A – Alert
The first step in ALICE is Alert, which involves becoming aware of the situation and informing others as quickly as possible. The more immediate the alert, the faster people can respond.
An alert can be triggered by:
- Hearing gunfire.
- Seeing a suspicious individual.
- Receiving a verbal or digital notification.
The purpose of the Alert step is to communicate danger early and clearly. Unlike traditional methods, which often depend on an administrator’s announcement, ALICE encourages anyone aware of the threat to spread the message.
L – Lockdown
Lockdown is still an essential step in many cases, but in ALICE training, it’s enhanced. Instead of simply locking doors and staying in one place, ALICE encourages a more strategic lockdown:
- Barricade doors using desks, chairs, or any available items.
- Turn off lights and remain silent to make the space appear unoccupied.
- Stay out of sight, away from windows, and be prepared to move if necessary.
The difference in ALICE is that lockdowns are more flexible, allowing for action depending on the circumstances.
I – Inform
Inform involves communicating real-time information to others and, if possible, law enforcement. Keeping everyone updated on the shooter’s location, movements, and any critical details can help others make informed decisions about their next move.
This communication can happen via:
- Public address systems.
- Text messages or apps.
- Word of mouth or other digital means.
The goal is to provide actionable, up-to-date information that enables individuals to choose the safest course of action.
C – Counter
The Counter step is one of the most controversial elements of ALICE training because it involves taking physical action to disrupt or disarm the shooter. Countering is not about fighting but about creating chaos that distracts or incapacitates the shooter, allowing others to escape.
Some recommended countering actions include:
- Throwing objects such as books, chairs, or anything else available.
- Making loud noises to disorient the shooter.
- Swarming the shooter as a group to overwhelm them if they are close and escape is not possible.
Countering is always a last resort, used only if an individual is in immediate danger and other options, like evacuating, are not possible.
E – Evacuate
The final step, Evacuate, encourages individuals to leave the danger zone if it is safe to do so. Traditional lockdowns have often focused on staying in place, but ALICE training recognizes that, in some situations, escaping is the best option for survival.
Key evacuation tips include:
- Knowing where all exits are.
- Using windows or emergency exits if necessary.
- Helping others evacuate but not waiting for everyone if it compromises safety.
Evacuation is prioritized when the shooter’s location is known, and a clear escape route is available.
4. How ALICE Training Differs from Traditional Lockdown Methods
One of the key distinctions between ALICE training and traditional lockdown procedures is the emphasis on empowerment and flexibility. While traditional lockdowns often assume the safest option is to stay put and wait for law enforcement, ALICE recognizes that no two situations are the same.
Traditional Lockdown vs. Proactive Defense
Traditional lockdown methods focus on passive defense—locking doors, turning off lights, and waiting for help. ALICE, on the other hand, emphasizes proactive strategies such as evacuating when possible, barricading doors effectively, and, in extreme cases, countering the attacker. This approach gives individuals more control over their safety.
Empowering Individuals
ALICE training shifts the responsibility of safety from solely relying on law enforcement to empowering individuals to take action. By providing a range of options, it encourages quick, critical thinking in a dangerous situation.
5. The Importance of Training and Practice
For ALICE to be effective, regular training and drills are essential. Practicing each of the five steps ensures that individuals can react calmly and decisively during an emergency. Schools and businesses that implement ALICE training often conduct realistic drills to simulate active shooter scenarios and familiarize participants with the protocols.
Real-World Success Stories
There have been numerous instances where ALICE training has been credited with saving lives. By providing people with the tools and confidence to act, ALICE can reduce the number of casualties during an active shooter situation.
6. How ALICE Can Be Applied in Various Settings
One of the strengths of ALICE is its versatility. The principles of ALICE can be applied in various settings, making it suitable for schools, workplaces, and public spaces.
Schools
In educational environments, ALICE helps teachers and students make real-time decisions based on the specifics of the situation. Schools can conduct drills to ensure staff and students are prepared.
Workplaces
In office settings, ALICE training can empower employees to protect themselves and each other, reducing the potential for harm during an active shooter event.
Public Spaces
ALICE training can also be applied to public spaces such as shopping malls, theaters, and airports, providing the public with the tools they need to survive an active shooter event.
7. Common Criticisms of ALICE Training
While ALICE training has been widely praised, it has also faced criticism. Some opponents argue that encouraging individuals to counter a shooter could lead to unnecessary risk or that active shooter drills can have a negative psychological impact, particularly on young children.
Balancing Safety and Well-Being
Organizations need to balance the need for safety training with considerations for the mental and emotional well-being of participants. Providing resources and support after drills or training sessions can help mitigate anxiety or fear.
Conclusion
ALICE training provides a proactive approach to handling active shooter situations, offering more than just a passive lockdown strategy. By empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to assess and act during emergencies, ALICE has the potential to save lives. However, like any safety measure, it must be practiced and implemented thoughtfully to ensure its effectiveness.
FAQ
Q: What does ALICE stand for?
A: ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate—a proactive set of steps designed to help individuals respond during an active shooter situation.
Q: Is countering the shooter always recommended in ALICE training?
A: No, countering is only recommended as a last resort if evacuation and lockdown are not possible, and an individual is in immediate danger.
Q: How often should ALICE training be conducted?
A: Regular training and drills are encouraged to ensure that participants are familiar with the protocols and able to react quickly in an emergency.
Q: Can ALICE training be used outside of schools?
A: Yes, ALICE training is adaptable for various settings, including workplaces, hospitals, and public spaces.
Q: How can I implement ALICE training in my organization?
A: Contact certified ALICE instructors or consult with safety professionals to bring ALICE training to your organization.
