WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation has updated its three-year-old emergency response guidelines for “active shooters” — individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area.
NRF’s updates coincide with the release of the latest online training program from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, which provide retailers and other private sector employees specific guidelines and protocols on how to respond to an active shooter incident.
"The threat of real-life crisis situations doesn't stop short of retail stores or malls and retailers must remain aware of potential dangers" said Joe LaRocca, senior asset protection advisor, NRF, in a statement "It's imperative for retailers to educate their employees with the latest updates on emergency situations, which include in-store shootings. By working closely with law enforcement, retailers are able to provide potentially life-saving information for their most valuable assets — their employees and their customers."
The NRF’s guide serves to educate companies about active shooters, which have become a serious threat in recent years. Basic guidelines for how to analyze the situation and react accordingly are outlined in a way that serves all types of retailers regardless of size. NRF encourages retailers to use the guidelines as a part of their larger emergency management plan to protect employees and customers.
