Stricter Gun Laws In Schools

On 14 December 2012, America endured the horrific tragedy when a gunman, identified as Adam Lanza, took the lives of 20 elementary students and 8 administrative members of Sandy Hook Elementary School. The needless evil of one man not only took the lives of these children but also destroyed the foreseen precious moments of family experiences; birthdays, graduations, weddings, having children and grandkids of their own. Among the fallen were teachers, men and women who devoted their lives in helping and educating children fulfilling their dreams and goals. What action is required to eliminate the threats of an active shooter in schools or public areas? Implement stricter gun laws? Scrutinize the screening processes? Armed guards serving as

government has not capitalized on the lessons learned. Discussions about implementing stricter gun laws, scrutinizing applicant background checks, and even talks of banning assault weapons continue to be the topic of White House round-table discussions and in search for the solution. These are viable solutions although would require time and sufficient manpower strategy to conform within our legislative system . Safety experts states, “Even though most school crisis plans generally address school violence generated by students, more attention needs to be paid to the threat of outside intruders, because little can be done to stop a determined shooter once he or she has gained access to a school building. ” Historical data from previous school shootings in the U.S. share the commonalities where gunmen select the path of least resistance, as well as knowing the provided protection to counter the attack is limited or nonexistent. Other factors supporting the gunmen’s objective include; the area were the school is located, crime level, environment and its natural landscape, the construction of the school to include its entrances and exits, and the number of personnel populating the school and its facilities. “Although schools are continually reviewing, modifying, updating and reminding their teachers and staff of the emergency response plan,

The liability of innocent bystanders possibly caught between crossfire, and negligent decision making actions from an officer is a concern. Placing armed guards in public schools may be the immediate answer, but mixed thoughts of adding more gun presence in the schools will only amplify the chance of liability when it comes to school safety. For example nine bystanders were caught in crossfire during a shooting that took place at the Empire State Building in New York City in 2012 . Paul Timm, the vice president of RETA Security Inc. known as a base consulting firm for school advisement is not in favor for arming security guards based on the lack of organization and benchmark-standards supporting the training requirements and qualifications armed guards possess . Statistics confirm that training is not an issue when it comes to quality as well as standards within the COPS program. Mishaps do occur however the based on circumstances and implementing risk management, the end result is minimal. Mr. John Hamill, Oklahoma school district spokesman elaborates on the facts of all security personnel do attend and complete the standard law enforcement certification. The course covers in detail the use of force, training tailored to the assigned weapon, and the rules of engagement when it comes to deploying and the use of their firearm . Risks are always present and no two