Jacksonville, AL – On Thursday, April 11th, Jacksonville State University (JSU) took a proactive step in enhancing campus safety by hosting a large-scale emergency training exercise focused on responding to an active shooter event. The exercise, which commenced at 9:00 am, involved coordinated efforts between students, faculty, and various first responder agencies.
The training, two years in the making, was part of the Interprofessional Education Event, aimed at bringing together students from diverse departments and programs across campus. Participants from disciplines such as nursing, social work, emergency management, and athletic training joined forces to respond to a meticulously planned emergency simulation.
Throughout the morning, the JSU community witnessed heightened activity at the Pete Mathews Coliseum and the JSU South Complex as students engaged in the simulated response to an active shooter scenario. The simulation, crafted by faculty and staff, incorporated the acting talents of the university’s theatre students to create a realistic environment for the participants.
First responders from the University Police Department, Jacksonville Police Department, Jacksonville Fire Department, and Calhoun County Emergency Management Agency were actively involved in the exercise. Their presence ensured the smooth execution of the simulation while providing valuable training opportunities for both students and emergency personnel.
Chief Michal Barton, of the University Police Department, emphasized the dual purpose of the exercise. “This exercise is designed to help sharpen the skills of our university and city first responders as well as the county emergency management agency,” Chief Barton shared with the Calhoun Journal. “The event will also serve as personal safety training and provide realistic hands-on experiences for our students who are planning to work in related fields.”
The active participation of first responders and students underscored the importance of preparedness and collaboration in emergency response. Chief Kadle of the Jacksonville Fire Department highlighted the significance of training for unforeseen circumstances. “We train for an event we hope we never have to deal with,” Chief Kadle explained. “This will give us as well as the students a chance to understand what can happen and what the response would be.”
In addition to honing response protocols, the exercise facilitated opportunities for identifying areas of improvement and enhancing coordination among different agencies. Chief Kadle emphasized the importance of efficient triage and medical response in such situations, emphasizing the goal of providing timely and effective care to those in need.
The active shooter training exercise at Jacksonville State University exemplifies a proactive approach to campus safety and emergency preparedness. By fostering collaboration between students, faculty, and first responders, JSU aims to ensure a safer and more resilient campus community, equipped to respond effectively to any unforeseen challenges.
