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Raynika Battle is the CEO and founder of Risk Management Consulting Group. She holds a certification from the Michigan State Police Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security as a Professional Emergency Manager. With over six years of experience in the field, Raynika has taught countless businesses, organizations, and Individuals how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies.Executive Director for Do1Thing 2016-2022 (nonprofit emergency preparedness program) and Regional Planner for the City of Lansing Office of Emergency Management. Raynika spent over five years presenting, teaching, and training individuals, businesses, churches, and nonprofit organizations how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies. As a stakeholder in community for emergency preparedness, Raynika has served on committees for the City of Lansing Mayor’s Office, District 1 Regional Medical Response Coalition, Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and more.Professional Emergency Manager certified by the Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division.Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member 2016-2022
Speaker at the Ontario Emergency Managers Conference in Toronto CanadaCreated online emergency preparedness course for individuals to prepare themselves and their communities.

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Risk Management News

September 8, 2026Organizational Preparedness for Active Violent Intruders: Before, During, and Afterby Raynika Battle

Active threat incidents, often called active shooter events represent a grave risk to organizations across every sector: offices, schools, healthcare facilities, government buildings, houses of worship, and retail spaces. While these events receive significant media attention, many organizations remain unprepared, uncertain about what steps to take, or unsure how to train employees without creating unnecessary anxiety.This guide provides evidence-based strategies for preparing your organization, responding in the moment, and recovering from an active violent intruder incident. Every recommendation is grounded in federal guidance from the FBI, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and research from leading experts in workplace violence prevention and emergency response.The Current Threat Landscape: Why Preparation Matters
Recent Statistics on Active Violent Intruder IncidentsThe data on active threat incidents is sobering and instructive. Understanding current trends helps organizations grasp the genuine need for preparedness:2025 Data: The FBI designated 34 active shooter incidents in 2025, representing a 42% increase from 2024, though this remains below the five-year average of 43 incidents per year. Notably, 68% of 2025 incidents involved planning and preparation by the shooter—an increase from 58% in 2024. This suggests that detection of pre-incident indicators could prevent many attacks.2024 Data: The FBI documented 24 active shooter incidents in 2024, a 50% decrease from 48 incidents in 2023. While this represents a positive downward trend, the incidents still occurred across 19 states and affected all five location categories: open space, commerce, education, government, and houses of worship.Five-Year Trend (2020–2024): Between 2020 and 2024, the FBI designated 223 active shooter incidents across 43 states and Washington, D.C. While this represents a 70% increase compared to the previous five-year period (2015–2019), it demonstrates an overall downward trend starting in 2022.Critical Timeline Finding: According to ALICE Training Institute analysis of FBI data, approximately two-thirds of active shooter incidents conclude before law enforcement arrives on scene. This underscores a critical reality: your organization's immediate response directly impacts survival. Law enforcement focuses on stopping the threat; employees must make life-saving decisions in real time.Workplace Violence Context: The FBI reports that over 80% of active shooter events occur at public or private workplaces, making occupational settings among the highest-risk environments.Part 1: BEFORE—Prevention, Planning, and PreparednessPreventing an active threat begins long before any incident occurs. Organizations that invest in prevention, threat assessment, and preparedness create multiple opportunities to identify potential threats, intervene early, and protect employees.Phase 1A: Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Action Plan (EAP). An Emergency Action Plan is the foundation of organizational readiness. Your EAP should:Define Leadership and Roles: Designate an Emergency Response Team with clear roles: Incident Commander, Communications Officer, First Aid Coordinator, Facility Manager
Establish chain of command and decision-making authority
Identify alternates for every role to ensure continuityDocument Evacuation Routes: Identify primary and secondary evacuation routes from every area of your facility
Designate assembly points (at least one primary, one backup)
Account for people with disabilities or mobility limitations
Ensure exits are clearly marked and unobstructed at all times
Consider that safe evacuation routes may not be the standard fire drill routes—in an active threat situation, moving toward an exit where the threat is located creates dangerEstablish Shelter-in-Place Areas: Identify secure rooms that can be locked from the inside with limited access
Ensure these rooms have communication devices (phones or intercoms)
Stock these areas with basic supplies: water, first aid kits, emergency information
Practice locking and barricading doorsCommunication Protocols: Establish how employees will be notified of an active threat (alarm system, text alerts, phone calls)
Decide on alert terminology that is clear and unambiguous (avoid coded language that employees might misunderstand in a high-stress situation)
Identify how and when external agencies (911, law enforcement) will be notified
Plan for communication with families, media, and the publicIntegration with Law Enforcement: Invite local police to review your facility and plan
Establish relationships with first responders before an incident occurs
Discuss how law enforcement will access your building and identify safe areas
Brief officers on any access control systems, alarm codes, or facility layoutsPhase 1B: Identify Warning Signs and Behavioral Risk IndicatorsThe FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit has conducted extensive research on attackers' pre-incident behaviors. A landmark finding: on average, each active shooter displayed 4–5 observable concerning behaviors over time in the year before their attack.The most common concerning behaviors related to:Mental health struggles
Problematic interpersonal interactions
"Leakage"—intentional or unintentional revealing of intent to do harmBehavioral Warning Signs to Monitor:Changes in Behavior:Sudden or sustained changes in personal hygiene or appearance
Social isolation or withdrawal
Excessive absenteeism or unexplained tardiness
Obsessive interest in weapons, explosives, or military tactics
Unusual research into previous violent incidents or perpetrators
Stalking, unwanted contact, or surveillance of colleaguesChanges in Attitude:Sudden mood swings or irritability
Expressions of hopelessness or suicidal ideation
Excessive anger over minor issues
Preoccupation with grievances (real or perceived)
Statements about "not having anything to lose"
Fatalistic or apocalyptic languageDemonstrations of Violence:Verbal threats (direct or indirect)
Physical aggression toward objects or animals
Aggressive posturing or intimidating behavior
History of violence or violent ideation
Access to weapons combined with statements of intentHigh-Risk Contextual Factors:Recent major loss (job termination, relationship break-up, financial crisis)
Multiple concurrent stressors
Substance abuse, especially alcohol or stimulant drugs
History of personality disorders (paranoia, antisocial behavior)
Evidence of prior law enforcement contacts or civil violations**Important Note: No single behavior automatically predicts violence. Threat assessment professionals evaluate patterns of behavior, the person's history, current stressors, and the overall context. A person displaying one or two concerning behaviors may never pose a threat. However, an individual displaying a cluster of behaviors across multiple domains, especially combined with access to weapons and evidence of planning, represents a serious concern requiring intervention.Phase 1C: Implement Access Control and Physical SecurityPhysical barriers and access controls reduce the likelihood of a threat entering a facility and limit the intruder's movement once inside.Access Control Measures: Control entry points: limit to designated secure areas during business hoursUse buzzers, cameras, or security personnel to verify visitors before granting accessMaintain a visitor log and require identificationInstall security cameras in common areas, entrances, and hallwaysUse coded key cards that track entry and exit.
Secure server rooms, sensitive areas, and rooms with weaponsFacility Modifications:Keep hallways clear of clutter or obstacles that impede evacuation
Install shatter-resistant windows in public-facing areas, if feasible
Ensure doors can be locked from the inside
Consider installing ballistic-resistant materials in high-risk areas (though this is more common in government and law enforcement facilities)
Create secure areas where employees can shelter in place with communication devicesPerimeter Security:Maintain landscaping (trim bushes and trees so employees can see outside)
Consider fencing to control vehicle access
Ensure parking areas are visible and well-lit
Have a plan for suspicious vehicles
Phase 1E: Develop a Culture of Reporting and SafetyThe most effective violence prevention strategy is a workplace culture where people trust that concerning behaviors will be taken seriously and acted upon constructively. Employees closest to a potential threat—coworkers, friends, family—often notice warning signs first.Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs):Promote your EAP widely; employees are more likely to use services they know about
Ensure EAP staff receive training on workplace violence warning signs and risk escalation
Establish protocols for EAP to communicate with TAT when a client presents a serious safety concern
Use EAP as a prevention tool, not just a reactive service
Part 2: DURING—Response in the MomentActive threat incidents evolve rapidly, often with only seconds or minutes between threat recognition and peak danger. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Homeland Security promote the "Run, Hide, Fight" framework as the standard response for anyone present during an active threat.The Run, Hide, Fight ProtocolRun, Hide, Fight is a sequential hierarchy of actions. Each person makes real-time decisions based on their location and the threat's location.RUN: Evacuate Immediately If a Safe Route ExistsRunning is always the preferred first option. Evacuation removes you from the threat's location.How to Evacuate:Leave belongings behind—they are not worth your life
Exit through the nearest safe exit, not necessarily the exit you normally use
Use cover and concealment while moving (cover is something that provides both protection from view and protection from bullets; concealment blocks the threat's view but may not stop bullets)
Move quickly but deliberately—avoid panic that causes people to bunch together at exits
Establish a meeting point outside the facility where evacuated employees gather
Continue moving away from the facility until you reach the established meeting point or a location away from dangerHelping Others During Evacuation:Assist people who are injured or need help, but don't delay your own evacuation
Once you're at a safe location, guide arriving law enforcement to the incident and to safe exit routesEvacuation Drills:Conduct evacuation drills at least twice yearly
Vary the times and starting locations to build adaptability
Don't announce drills in advance; test whether people actually know what to do
Debrief after each drill: did people know the exits? Did they congregate safely? Were there delays?
HIDE: Take Shelter in a Secure Location If Evacuation Is Not SafeIf evacuation routes are blocked or you are uncertain of the threat's location, find a secure location to shelter in place.How to Hide Effectively:Lock or barricade the door (use furniture to reinforce the lock if needed)
Move away from the door and out of sight
Silence your phone; do not respond to calls or texts unless law enforcement specifically requests your location
Remain silent and still; an active shooter is looking for targets, and silence may mean you are not found
Stay in this shelter until law enforcement has secured the building and given the all-clearSelecting a Hiding Location in the Moment:A room you can lock is ideal (office, bathroom, conference room)
Under desks or behind heavy furniture offers concealment but not full protection
Avoid areas where you would be trapped (dead-end hallways, closets with no exit)
If possible, choose a location with a window so law enforcement can see you when they enterCommunication While Hiding:Do not call out to others or respond to the threat
If safe to do so, text law enforcement your location and the number of people with you
Remain in hiding until law enforcement gives the all-clear; do not leave your shelter even if it seems quiet
FIGHT: Incapacitate the Threat as a Last ResortFighting is the option of last resort, used only when evacuation and hiding are not possible and your life is in immediate danger.Critical Context:The goal of fighting is to incapacitate the threat or distract them long enough for others to escape
Fighting should only occur if you are not armed and the threat is in your immediate vicinity
The decision to fight is an act of survival when all other options are exhaustedHow to Fight Effectively:Act with aggression and commitment—hesitation makes you vulnerable
Aim for vulnerable areas: eyes, throat, groin, knees
Use any available objects as weapons: chairs, fire extinguishers, tools, pens
Involve multiple people if possible; a group has better odds than an individual
The goal is to incapacitate or distract, creating an opportunity for escapeExample Scenario: A threat enters a room where people are sheltering. They cannot safely escape. Individuals in the room coordinate an attack using physical aggression and available objects to overwhelm the threat, creating an opportunity to escape or gain control of the weapon.Response Protocol for Different Facility TypesResponse protocols vary based on facility type, occupancy, and physical layout:Office Environments: Workstations and cubicles offer concealment but limited cover
Evacuation is often the best option if a safe route exists
Sheltering in conference rooms or locked offices is the secondary option
Establish rally points in parking lots or adjacent buildingsEducational Facilities:Classrooms should have lockable doors that can be barricaded
Evacuation routes need to account for large numbers of students and staff
Designated shelter areas should be practiced in drills
Communication systems must reach all staff simultaneouslyHealthcare Facilities:Patients who cannot evacuate require special planning
Sheltering in place may be the only option for some areas
Staff need to know how to secure entrances to patient care areas
Evacuation routes accommodate stretchers and medical equipmentAlways adhere to the policies of your organization regarding emergencies.

Retail/Open Spaces:Multiple exits and entry points make evacuation the primary response
Customers may not be familiar with evacuation routes
Sheltering options are limited; employees should know which areas offer cover
Staff must be trained to communicate with customers: "Leave immediately through that exit"Houses of Worship:Large gathering spaces present unique challenges
Evacuation must account for all attendees, including children or elderly members
Back exits and secondary routes are critical
Staff and volunteer greeters should be trained on response procedures
Communication During an Active ThreatClear, timely communication saves lives. Organizations should develop robust communication protocols:Internal Alert System:Use a method that reaches everyone simultaneously (PA system, emergency text alert, klaxon alarm)
Use clear language: "Active threat in the building. Exit immediately" (avoid codes that people might not understand)
Provide location information if possible: "Threat on the second floor. Evacuate through the north stairwell"
Repeat alerts as the situation evolves
Test your alert system regularlyCalling 911:The first person to recognize the threat should call 911 immediately
Provide specific information: location of the threat, description of the threat, number of shots heard or weapons visible
Stay on the line with the dispatcher; provide updates as the situation changes
Alert law enforcement to any sheltering individuals once you have reached safetyCommunication with Law Enforcement:Law enforcement response focuses on stopping the threat, not on medical assistance
Do not distract officers; they will conduct tactical operations to neutralize the threat
Follow all officer commands immediately and completely
If you are exiting a building, keep your hands visible, move slowly, and follow instructionsPost-Incident Communications:Once the threat is neutralized, leadership should communicate with employees and families
A designated spokesperson should provide clear, factual information to media
Avoid speculation or misinformation
Communicate available support resources
Part 3: AFTER—Recovery and ResilienceThe aftermath of an active threat incident extends far beyond the moment the threat ends. Organizations must address immediate medical and safety needs, support traumatized employees, maintain business continuity, and learn from the event to prevent future incidents.Immediate Recovery (First 24–72 Hours)Medical Response:Emergency medical services treat and transport injured individuals
First aid supplies and trained responders help stabilize casualties while awaiting emergency services
Document all injuries and medical treatment
Ensure workers' compensation claims are filed for injured employeesSafety Verification:Law enforcement secures the facility and confirms the threat is neutralized
A structured clearance process ensures all areas are secure before employees re-enter
Document any damage, criminal evidence, or safety hazards
Address environmental concerns (blood, biological material) with appropriate cleanup servicesFamily Reunification:Establish a system for employees to contact family members
If employees cannot leave the facility during the event, coordinate a supervised reunification process
Provide regular updates to families of missing individuals
Have a system for reuniting separated children with parentsPsychological First Aid (PFA): Psychological First Aid is an evidence-informed approach to supporting traumatized individuals in the immediate aftermath of a crisis. PFA is not therapy; it is practical and emotional support to reduce initial distress and help people function.PFA Core Actions:Contact and engagement: Approach survivors with compassion; introduce yourself and ask how you can help
Safety and stabilization: Address immediate physical needs (water, first aid, shelter); help people find secure locations
Information: Provide clear information about what happened and what is happening next
Practical assistance: Help people meet immediate needs: calling family, accessing transportation, securing medications
Connection to social support: Reconnect people with friends, family, and support networks
Information about reactions: Normalize common stress responses (anxiety, sleep disruption, difficulty concentrating)
Linkage to continuing support: Provide information about counseling services, Employee Assistance Programs, and mental health resourcesWho Provides PFA:First responders
Mental health professionals
Peer support specialists
Organizational leaders and managers
Trained volunteersTraining: DHS offers free training on Psychological First Aid. Organizations should ensure that managers, supervisors, and designated support personnel receive PFA training.Short-Term Recovery (1–4 Weeks)Mental Health Support:Activate your Employee Assistance Program; many EAPs offer crisis counseling and extended services
Provide trauma counseling through mental health providers
Establish peer support groups where survivors can connect with colleagues
Identify individuals at highest risk for prolonged mental health impacts and prioritize their supportWorkplace Accommodations:Allow flexible schedules and remote work options for employees struggling to return
Provide temporary reassignment for employees whose workstations were in the incident area
Allow bereavement leave for employees who lost colleagues
Do not pressure people to "get over it" or return to normal productivity immediatelyDebrief Sessions:Facilitate guided conversations where employees can ask questions and express concerns
Provide accurate information about what happened
Clarify misconceptions and address rumors
Discuss security improvements and additional safety measuresCommunication:Senior leadership should address employees and acknowledge the trauma
Messages should express empathy, provide factual information, outline available support, and communicate the organization's commitment to safety
Be transparent about what improvements are being made
Communicate with external stakeholders (customers, clients, partners) as appropriate
Medium-Term and Long-Term Recovery (1–12+ Months)Security Enhancements:Conduct a comprehensive security assessment with law enforcement
Review facility layout and access controls
Implement improvements identified in the assessment (upgraded camera systems, reinforced doors, evacuation procedures, etc.)
Communicate security upgrades to employees to restore confidenceAfter-Action Review (AAR):Convene the Emergency Response Team, facility staff, and law enforcement to conduct a structured review
Examine what happened, how the response unfolded, and how well procedures were followed
Identify gaps or problems in communication, coordination, or procedures
Develop action items to address gaps
The goal is learning and improvement, not assigning blameBusiness Continuity:If the incident damaged the facility or business operations, implement your Business Continuity Plan
Restore critical systems and functions as quickly as possible
Communicate recovery timelines to employees and customers
Ensure financial assistance for affected employeesMemorialization and Meaning-Making:For incidents with fatalities, involve survivors and families in planning memorials or anniversaries
Establish scholarships, charitable giving, or community service initiatives in honor of victims
Create opportunities for survivors to find meaning and purpose in their recovery
Support employees in their grieving processLong-Term Monitoring:Watch for signs of prolonged trauma (PTSD, depression, anxiety) in employees
Maintain access to mental health services
Hold periodic training or drills to maintain preparedness without re-traumatizing survivors
Recognize that trauma recovery is a long-term process; some employees may struggle for yearsLessons Learned and Prevention:Use the AAR findings to update your Emergency Action Plan
Revise evacuation routes, communication procedures, or training based on what was learned
Share lessons learned with peer organizations in your industry
Contribute to the broader understanding of workplace violence prevention and response
Key Takeaways: A Comprehensive Preparedness ApproachOrganizational preparedness for active violent intruders requires action in three phases:Before: Develop plans, train employees, identify warning signs, establish threat assessment procedures, and create a culture where safety is prioritized.During: Execute Run, Hide, Fight response procedures, communicate clearly with employees and law enforcement, and make split-second decisions that prioritize survival.After: Provide psychological support, investigate what happened, improve procedures, restore normal operations, and help employees process trauma and recover.Evidence-based facts support this approach:68% of 2025 active shooter incidents involved planning; early warning sign detection can prevent attacks
Two-thirds of incidents conclude before law enforcement arrives; employee response is critical
80% of active shooter events occur in workplaces; occupational preparedness is essential
Threat assessment teams and reporting cultures reduce risk by enabling early intervention
Psychological First Aid and trauma counseling support recovery and resilienceOrganizations that invest in preparedness—before an incident occurs—create multiple opportunities to prevent attacks, respond effectively if prevention fails, and recover stronger afterward.Resources for OrganizationsFederal Guidance:CISA Active Shooter Preparedness (www.cisa.gov/topics/physical-security/active-shooter-preparedness)
FBI Active Shooter Information (www.fbi.gov/survive)
DHS Active Shooter Resources (community security initiative resources)Training and Tools:DHS Independent Study Course: "Active Shooter: What You Can Do" (free online training)
CISA Active Shooter Preparedness Action Guide (free downloadable guide)
ALICE Training (Run, Hide, Fight methodology and training)
Athena Security and other commercial training providersMental Health Support:Psychological First Aid training and resources (nctsn.org)
Employee Assistance Program directory (your HR department or EAP vendor)
American Psychological Association resources on trauma recovery
Crisis Text Line (text HOME to 741741)Professional Organizations:International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM)
Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP)
American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS)
Final NoteActive threat preparedness is not about instilling fear; it is about building knowledge, competence, and confidence. Employees who understand what to do, have practiced their responses, and know their organization takes safety seriously report feeling more secure and confident.Leadership that prioritizes preparedness sends a clear message: your safety and well-being matter to us. That commitment, demonstrated through concrete actions, builds organizational resilience and saves lives.

The Importance of Disaster Preparedness for College Students Living on Campus
by Raynika Battle

Embarking on the college journey often means leaving the familiar comforts of home and stepping into a world of independence. For many students, living on campus is an exciting experience filled with new opportunities and challenges. However, being away from home also means taking on the responsibility of ensuring your own safety, especially when it comes to disasters and emergencies. Preparing for unexpected events is crucial for college students, as it can make the difference between panic and confident action when faced with a crisis.Several years ago, I had the opportunity to talk with and help some college students at Michigan State University about preparing for disasters. I can say confidently that 80% of the students I talked to did not have a plan if they didn’t have cell phone service to call home during or after a disaster. However most were aware of the types of supplies they needed to have on hand.Being prepared starts with having the right supplies on hand. An emergency kit tailored to your needs is a fundamental step in disaster readiness. Here is a list of suggested items.1. First-Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.2. Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Power outages can occur during storms or other emergencies.3. Non-Perishable Food and Water: At least a three-day supply to sustain you if dining services are unavailable.4. Whistle: Useful for signaling for help if you're trapped or need to alert others.5. Blanket or Thermal Blanket**: To keep warm if heating systems fail.6. Important Documents: Identification or driver’s license, student ID, passport copies, medical Information, health insurance cards, list of medications, and any allergies.7. Emergency Contacts: A list of phone numbers and addresses for family, close friends, and doctors. You can list them in your phone as emergency contacts.8. Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio: To receive news updates if internet and cell service are down.9. Personal Items: keep cash such as small bills and coins, as ATMs might not function during power outages. Comfort items such as a favorite book or game to help reduce stress during an emergency.Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare. Having a plan in place is as important as having the right supplies. It ensures you know what to do and where to go when disaster strikes.Look at these list of tips to prepare yourself mentally on what you should do during a disaster.1. Familiarize Yourself with campus emergency procedures:
- Evacuation Routes: Know at least two ways out of your dorm and main academic buildings.
- Emergency Assembly Points: Identify safe locations where you should gather after evacuating.
- Shelter-in-Place Locations: Know where to go during severe weather or other situations requiring you to stay indoors.2. Develop a Personal Emergency Plan. Personal is the key word here as plans will look different from person to person. A person who has access to a vehicle versus someone who may have mobility issues will look different.
- Communication Strategy: Decide how you will contact family and friends. Text messaging might be more reliable than calls.
- Roommate Coordination: Discuss emergency plans with roommates to ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Practice Drills: Regularly review and rehearse your plan to make it second nature.3. Stay Informed: One of those most important things to remember is your safety is dependent on what you know.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Many universities offer text or email notifications for emergencies. Parents can also sign up for these alerts if available.
- Monitor Local News: Stay updated on weather conditions and other potential threats.
- Know the Risks: Understand the types of disasters common in your area, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes.Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility that begins with individual action and is supported by institutional planning. As a college student living on campus, taking the initiative to prepare for emergencies not only enhances your safety but also contributes to the overall resilience of the campus community. By assembling an emergency kit, developing a personal plan, and understanding your university's role in disaster response, you position yourself to handle unforeseen events with confidence and composure. Remember, preparedness is not about panic; it's about empowerment and ensuring that you can continue your educational journey safely, no matter what challenges arise.