The University Police Department (UPD) at Texas A&M University-San Antonio presented a crime prevention program titled C.R.A.S.E.: Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events. The seminar presented Feb. 17 informed students on how to survive an active shooter situation and “Avoid, Deny and Defend.”
C.R.A.S.E is a free seminar for college campuses and is made available to anyone who wants to attend.
The crime prevention program includes facts about active shooter events, immediate actions students can take to survive, lockdown versus lockout and what to do when law enforcement arrives.
UPD Chief, and instructor of C.R.A.S.E training, Ronald Davidson led the seminar by addressing different ways to make students aware of their surroundings and how to handle dangerous situations.
“No one should have to pay to learn these things. We are available.” Davidson said.
Davidson started the workshop in a classroom at the Central Academic Building with the “5 Second Plan v. No Second Plan: Keep it Simple!” presentation.
Davidson explained that students always need a “5-second-plan to avoid panic and lose focus.”
“Find your exits and get out!” Davidson continued. “I would rather have good witnesses than more victims.”
Pay attention to your surroundings
The workshop continued with video footage of violent attacks. After screening the video, Davidson described the necessary steps to stay safe.
“The first minute that person pulls a gun and they are not a police officer… what should you do? Out the door!” Davidson said.
He stressed to know your exits and never use the same door you came in from. Be aware of other emergency exits you can use.
Executive Assistant Joni Foster said she attended to gain new skills.
“I have been a safety captain before and I wanted to refresh my memory,” Foster said. “I care about people and want to keep them safe.”
During the workshop, Foster said that it’s important to give a good description of the attacker to the police.
Active shooter situation on campus
Davidson discussed how the campus carry law impacts all students. Violators of the law will be subject to gun confiscation, legal action and possible revocation of their Concealed Handgun License by state authorities.
The law applies to all land and buildings owned or leased by an institution of higher education.
“I want the folks who do have a license to start thinking like an off-duty police officer,” Davidson said. “If you don’t, you could get yourself and other innocent people killed.”
A&M-San Antonio advises considering many factors when trying to survive an active shooter.
First, leave the area immediately. Run in the opposite direction of the gunshots and do not stop running until you are in a safe area.
Once in a safe area, remain quiet and lock the doors and proceed to barricade the entrance using chairs and other items.
Remain calm and wait until an officer arrives. Follow the officer’s instructions, drop items in your hands and raise your hand and keep them visible at all times.
The crime prevention program can be offered at the Rape Crisis center, any Salvation Army, colleges and churches.
For more information contact UPD at non-Emergency: (210) 784-1900 or for an emergency: (210) 784-1911.
