Long before two people killed 14 and wounded more than 20 in San Bernardino this week, or teams of armed terrorists acted in concert last month in Paris, the Orlando Police Department had been training all of its officers to respond in the event of an active shooter scenario.
In fact, bi-annual, scenario-based active shooter training has been a part of OPD's block training program since 2000.
Since law enforcement's focus is always to contain and stop an active shooter, in 2014, OPD modified its training to integrate the Orlando Fire Department. In this new training, which was taught in scenario-based exercises starting last spring and summer, rescue personnel respond to what we call "warm zones" (where contact with the shooter or shooters is not likely to occur) so they can quickly enter, locate, treat, and evacuate casualties.
We want the community to be aware of the extensive and frequent training all of our officers receive, because our highest priority is the safety and security of the residents and visitors to our city.
It's also important for everyone to know they should never hesitate to contact police if they see or encounter any suspicious activity. You are our eyes and ears in the community and it's incumbent on all of us to remain vigilant.
