Wilmington security instructor talks active shooter safety in wake of Orlando attack

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Events like the Orlando nightclub shooting bring public safety to the forefront of many people’s minds. Today we spoke with Warren Kennedy, a retired law enforcement officer and certified safety training instructor about the best ways you can be prepared and stay safe.

Warren said his line of work focuses on safety training for businesses and churches. He said there is always a lot of discussion after a situation involving an active shooter about what people could or could not have done.

“First thing, you should always be aware of where you’re at and who’s around you,” said Warren. “No matter where you’re at in public or on someone’s private property. As you’re approaching a property always be aware of who’s around you. Pay attention to the buildings that you’re entering, exit signs, restrooms, office space.”

Warren said the first response should always be to run or get out and away from the area where an active shooter is. If you cannot run, he said you should find a place, like a bathroom or office, where you can hide. Warren said a last resort should be to fight.

“If you were forced to fight, what could you lose to improvise as a weapon,” Warren said.

He said with the world we live in now, everyone needs to know how to be prepared to handle an active shooter situation.

“If there’s ever been a time for you to take responsibility for your safety, today is the day,” Warren said. “Active shooter situations can happen anywhere. We’ve seen them in movie theaters, we’ve seen them in schools, we’ve seen them in malls, even churches.”

But Warren said we should not let fear of an active shooter situation stop us from living and enjoying our lives.

“In no shape, form, or fashion should we be so frightened that we become hideaways in our own homes,” Warren said. “This is America, the land of freedom. Go out. Do what you want. Go to the places you want to go. But when you enter any place, be aware of your surroundings and who’s there.”