Are police prepared for an active shooter?

An active shooter drill was held Friday morning at Fountain Middle School to ensure police would know what to do during this kind of emergency.

It’s scary to think such a situation could happen, but after massacres such as Aurora theater shooting and the Columbine High School shooting, law enforcement officers and school officials can’t be too careful.

“With the climate these days that we have to deal with not just in this country but in Europe, we absolutely have to be prepared,” said Sgt. Scott Gilbertsen of the Fountain Police Department.

Dr. Montina Romera, the assistant superintendent for Fountain Fort Carson school district 8, added, “When you can trust that you’re here working together, you can get through those times in the best ways possible even though its a very stressful situation.”

But the reality is, in many cases, victims in these active shooter situations die before first responders can arrive.

That’s why this drill, involving the people who are here every day is key.

There were several areas that needed improvement. They included communication and ensuring everyone knows each other’s skill level.