First responders hold active shooter training exercise in Pass Christian

Pass Christian Police Department put its skills to the test on Thursday. The department, joined by other first responders in the area, participated in active shooter drills with Pass Christian School District.

“What do we do?” This is a question that local law enforcement agencies don’t want to have to ask themselves if a shooter enters a school, which is why they’re here at Pass Christian High School participating in case that day ever comes. Pass Christian PD Captain of Operations Ryan Henry said, “This kind of incident could happen at a moment’s notice. So, it’s important that you know if you’re having your morning coffee and breakfast and you get that call you know what to do right then and there.”

Other law enforcement, fire departments, and more joined in on this training. The group was able to practice multiple scenarios.

While these agencies can’t predict what a real school intruder might do, the drills teach these first responders how to work together. “Communication is so important because in an instance like this, time matters. Our goal is to eliminate the threat as quickly as possible and to maximize and save as many lives as possible.”

Even a moment’s hesitation could hold consequences.

Pass Christian Assistant Principal and mom of two Tiffany Lindmark says seeing this proactive approach from multiple agencies is encouraging. “It kind of makes you sick to your stomach that you have to prepare for things like this, especially being a mom, and knowing that my kids could be involved in that. So, I think it’s not just our community that we feel confidence in and have that sense of peace that they are going to be able to handle it and act in a good, efficient way, but our surrounding communities that can assist if we need that help.”