FRANKLIN

The Franklin Police Department has partnered with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and ALERRT to offer training for civilians on what to do in the event of an active shooter attack.

The first training session will be offered on Thursday, Oct. 22, from 8 a.m. to noon, in the Franklin Business Center, located at 601 N. Mechanic St, Franklin. There will also be an afternoon session from 1 to 5 p.m. Seating is limited to 50 participants per session, so students must register for either the morning or afternoon session. Walk-ins will not be permitted, and those who register must present their driver’s licenses before they are admitted.

The training will consist of two courses: the Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) and the Civilian Response and Casualty Care (CRCC), both of which are designed and built on the “avoid, deny, defend” strategy developed by the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center at Texas State University in 2004.

According to the course description, the training provides strategies, guidance and a proven plan for surviving an active attack event. These courses combine the civilian response with a small, medical component, which is designed to empower civilians to provide life-saving medical aid before first responders arrive. The training will include the history and prevalence of active shooter events, the role and options for immediate civilian responders, and limited medical prevention. The courses are intended to aid schools, colleges, universities, businesses and community members with direction if they are confronted with an active attack.

There is no fee for the training or for course materials. Attendees are asked to bring pen and paper, and a good attitude. Attendees are responsible for travel and any other related expenses. PIC forms will be awarded upon successful course completion.

To register for the 8 a.m. to noon session, go to www.dcjs.virginia.gov/eventregistration/register.cfm?eventid=3154. To register for the 1 to 5 p.m. session, go to www.dcjs.virginia.gov/eventregistration/register.cfm?eventid=3161.

For more information, contact Deputy Chief Robert Porti at 562-8695 or rporti@franklinpolice.org.