Survival Blueprint: How to react during a mass shooting

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Mass shooting incidents took 84 lives across the United States during 2012.

Among many questions surrounding random acts of violence, like those committed in Newtown, Conn. and Aurora, Colo., one could question how it was possible for those who survived to escape death or injury. 

According to Indiana’s Department of Homeland Security , successful survival can be credited to both luck and skill.

The agency’s director of emergency response and recovery, Arvin Copeland suggested everyone should practice, at least mentally, for how they would react during a mass shooting with the same repetition school children might during fire or tornado drills.

“We certainly need to discuss it,” Copeland said.  “I prefer discussing this, educating people and reminding people to be aware rather than avoiding [the topic] and not having people prepared for situations.”

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has prepared an acronym it recommends members of the public keep in mind in the event of a crisis or random act of violence.  According to the agency, “A.L.I.C.E.” is a mental routine worth repeating so people will be prepared and not panicky if faced with an active shooter.

Click here to view a photo gallery further explaining the acronym, A.L.I.C.E.

The plan involves staying aware of your surroundings in all public places including knowing escape routes, having a plan for where you might hide in the event of a crisis and being prepared to fight back if necessary.

“You have to do what you have to do to save yourself and frankly, there are no limits to that,” Copeland said.