5 Must-Do's to Anticipate an Active Assailant Incident

A comprehensive vulnerability assessment is the foundation of effective risk management. By systematically identifying potential threat vectors and evaluating existing security gaps, organizations gain a clear understanding of their exposure. This process ensures mitigation strategies are targeted, cost-effective, and aligned with operational realities. Without this step, organizations risk wasting resources on ineffective or unnecessary measures. More importantly, it paves the way for understanding what needs to happen when an incident occurs.  

Insider threats remain one of the most significant concerns in active assailant scenarios. Experience shows that organizations conducting thorough background checks of new hires are well-positioned to address risks from the outset. Screening should extend beyond criminal history to include behavioral indicators and professional references, helping identify potential risks before they enter the workforce.  

Anticipating an incident requires clarity on who will be responsible for prevention, response, and recovery. Organizations should develop a list of key stakeholders, including: crisis management consultants, communications team members, HR, security personnel, executive leadership, and external partners such as local law enforcement, property managers, and trauma counselors. Early engagement ensures everyone understands their roles that way during a crisis, communication flows clearly and decisions can be made quickly, especially when seconds count. 

Existing emergency response and contingency plans must be revised regularly to reflect evolving operational realities and threat landscapes. For example, if your organization has gone through a rapid period of expansion, then it follows that your response plan should be reviewed to account for new sites, assets, and employees. Where no plans exist, new frameworks should be developed. Plans should be tailored to organizational vulnerabilities, often uncovered during initial assessments, and should include clear protocols for communication, lockdown procedures, and post-incident support. 

Anticipation is an ongoing process. It requires security awareness embedded at every level of the organization, from executive leadership to security staff on-the-ground. By being proactive, it is easier to establish buy-in for resources to ensure that your organization is prepared for an active assailant incident – whether that’s training, mass communication platforms, or scenario-based exercises. When these measures are part of the company’s culture, employees are ready to act decisively and compassionately during an incident.  

Anticipating active assailant incidents sets the tone for all subsequent phases of crisis management. By following these five must-do’s, organizations can set the foundation to safeguard lives. Still, the most effective strategies require more. Our expert consultants are ready to guide you through every step.  

Learn more about Crisis24’s Four-Phase Approach, access our full framework.