“We encourage citizens to consider being prepared for that defense if that becomes necessary to save innocent life, theirs and others included.”
SAN ANTONIO — Police and firefighters in San Antonio are training together year-round to prepare for one of the most dangerous situations first responders can face: an active shooter.
The joint training, conducted through the Rapid Active Attack Management program, places officers and firefighters in simulated high-stress scenarios designed to mirror the chaos of a real attack. Officials say the goal is to improve coordination between agencies and save lives if such an emergency occurs.
“It’s a call that first responders hope they never have to respond to,” said Nathan Sandoval, program coordinator for the San Antonio Police Department’s Rapid Active Attack Management program. “But we are more than capable and more than prepared.”
The training combines classroom instruction with scenario-based exercises, allowing first responders to experience the stress and urgency of an active shooter situation while practicing coordinated responses. Participants work through the key priorities of stopping the attacker, preventing additional injuries and rapidly evacuating victims.
Police and fire departments previously conducted separate training exercises. In 2023, the agencies began holding joint sessions to strengthen communication and command coordination during emergencies.
Fire officials say working side-by-side allows responders to better understand each agency’s role and move more efficiently when lives are at stake.
“No one wants to respond to these incidents,” said John Castillo, Batallion Chief, during the training. “But on the day that we have to, understanding what we’re doing and making efficient movements to get patients to the hospital is our main goal.”
First responders say the collaboration helps streamline operations and reduce risk for both victims and emergency crews.
They also emphasized that the public should remain calm and give responders space if an active shooter incident occurs.
Officials encourage civilians to remember three key actions: avoid, deny and defend.
If possible, people should leave the area and move to a safer location. If escaping isn’t possible, they should secure themselves in a room, lock or block doors, turn off lights and silence phones to avoid detection.
If neither option is possible, authorities say individuals may need to defend themselves to protect their own lives or others.
“They have the right to defend themselves,” Sandoval said. “We encourage citizens to consider being prepared for that defense if it becomes necessary to save innocent life.”
The training is based on programs developed by the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training Center at Texas State University. Officials say the curriculum evolves as experts study past mass casualty events and work with partners including the FBI.
James Keith, director of external relations for the training center, said public awareness is also critical in emergency situations.
“When we saw the situation unfold in Austin. It was apparent that not everybody knew what to do. We want people to take action. When you go into a location, be aware of the exits. Know what you’re going to do if an incident occurs.” Keith Said.
The center also offers training courses for civilians to help people better prepare for potential emergencies.
Officials say ongoing preparation is essential to ensure first responders can act quickly and effectively when seconds matter.