From The Tribune staff reports
TRUSSVILLE — Members of the Trussville Police Department gathered at Hewitt-Trussville High School on Thursday, July 22, for what is now called “Active Killer Training.”
Traditionally known as “Active Shooter Training,” the focus on the preparation technique has now changed to consider all types of killings.
“We’re trying to get away from using ‘active shooter’ because that implies that they have a gun, when in fact, they can kill somebody with all kinds of weapons, other than a gun,” said Chief Eric Rush.
Trussville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Pattie Neill said she is pleased with the partnership the school system has with the city in order to ensure the safety of all students.
“School safety is of paramount importance,” said Neill. “TCS collaborates with the Mayor, Police Chief and Fire Chief each year to map plans for overall safety, drills, evacuation plans, CPR certification, and safety processes. Many administrators have also been trained by TPD in active shooter drills. I know the students and employees are as safe as possible because of this collaboration.”
Rush said although the training was done inside of a school, the department realizes an active killing situation could occur anywhere including in a business or house. He said when responding to an active killer situation, officers use a different technique when approaching the situation.
“If you have somebody actively trying to take someone’s life, it requires an immediate action to eliminate the threat of the killer,” Rush added.
Trussville Police undergo active killer training every year.