On October 1st, 2017, a Las Vegas gunman shot into a crowd at a music festival ultimately killing 59 people and wounding more than 500 others. Among the first responders to this incident were emergency medical service providers (EMS). Often arriving at the scene before police, EMS teams face many obstacles while providing patient transport and care during these events.

Here are some tips for maximizing response efforts and minimizing risk during an active shooter event.

Safety First 21

The Department of Homeland Security states that most active shooter events last between 10-15 minutes. During this time it is paramount to consider EMS safety. A wounded first responder is not only unable to help victims but becomes a new victim themself.

While a shooting is ongoing, prioritize taking cover or evacuating as necessary. If the location of the shooter is unclear, remain in place and barricade doors or windows if possible. Use furniture and the environment for cover, and wait until the scene is safe.

Emergency Action Plan

Create an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and train all EMS staff at your facility to respond to active shootings. Aspects of your EAP should include:

• Policy for interacting with law enforcement on the scene
• Coordination with local hospitals that can treat both critical and non-critical victims
• Triage plans in the event of multiple woundings
• Transportation plans for atypical transport situations
• Supplies and medications for treating the wounded
• Reporting procedures to ensure EMS health and safety as well as needed patient care

Prepare and Plan Ahead

There will be many things you cannot prepare for in an active shooter situation, but planning ahead can help accelerate treatment and save lives. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do ahead of time, including stocking supplies best suited to a mass emergency.

Speed becomes vital and keeping the victim low to the ground for rapid removal to a waiting ambulance is vital. Struggling to get the victim up onto a rigid wheeled gurney may take more time and run the risk of running over unexpected obstacles.

Graham Medical is proud to be able to provide proven effective devices to our nation's EMS responders. Our MegaMover® Transport Units are:

• Easy to store, transport, and deploy.
• Able to be used on difficult, uneven terrain, stairs, etc.
• Strong material holds up to 1000 lbs.
• Ergonomic lifting for increased safety.
• The preferred choice of EMS professionals.

Constructed of a lightweight, strong, non-woven fabric, it is adaptable for use in multiple environments and for patient loads up to 1000 pounds.

In addition, our Absorbent Mats are lightweight, easy to store and transport and absorb 10 times their weight in liquid. Our single use Bedding Kits are absorbent and disposable to protect your gurneys and mattresses. As well, our EMS blankets are simple yet powerful tools when combating patient shock.

The key to managing an active shooter event relies on preparation and safety to prepare for the unexpected. No matter what, prioritize safety for all involved, and good luck.