The Westerville Division of Police has developed a public safety course to review active shooting incidents and educate participants on tactics to consider in such a scenario. The two-hour class will take place Wednesday February 17, 2016 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers in Westerville City Hall. 

With active shooter incidents occurring in the nation and around the globe, the course is designed to inform, prepare and empower people with law enforcement-endorsed options that increase situational awareness and personal safety.

Discussion will center on the evolution of mass shootings as a criminal behavior, including analysis and a lessons-learned approach to the tragedies at Columbine High School, Virginia Tech and Sandy Hook Elementary. Trained officers will explain active shooter trends and how to develop a plan of action based on research, statistics and best practices.

“Sadly, mass shootings have become a part of the world we live in,” said Joseph Morbitzer, Westerville Police Chief. “This training was developed not to provoke fear, but to prepare a person to think about what to do and how to react if ever in this unthinkable position. Knowledge is power, so WPD experts designed this course to provide tools that will help you think through a plan of action whether at work or another public place.”

Class size is limited to the first 100 people age 18 or older (or 14 or older with parent or guardian). The class is free for all attendees, but registration is required. Register online at www.westerville.org/registration and select class 110214-02. Registration by phone will be accepted by calling (614) 901-6472.