Pausing for a Moment of Reflection and Remembrance for SPU
Today our thoughts are with the Seattle Pacific University community. Deepest condolences to the family and friends of the young man taken too soon. Wishing a quick and complete recovery to all those injured. And much thanks to SPU student Jon Meis, whose initiative and courage stopped the shooter and certainly saved lives.
Mr. Meis apparently saw the opportunity and stepped in quickly. Many others would have paused too long, wondering if this was a real break and how long it would last and would they really have enough time . . . you know that old cliche about he who hesitates.
KUOW-FM broadcast an interview with Greg Crane, president and founder of Alert Lockdown Inform Counter Evacuate (ALICE). They were discussing what to do if faced with an active shooter. Mr. Crane says the best practices are pro-active. Know what you can do, and practice. Noise, movement, distance, and distraction all can slow down a shooter. It’s when someone takes charge that lives are saved, quotes interviewer Marcie Sillman.
How can you prepare yourself, just in case? Start by listening to the interview, and you should get some good ideas.