Implementing an Active Shooter strategy can seem overwhelming, but progress comes one step at a time. James Hamilton shares a powerful story about a Director of Security who transformed his organization’s safety culture through humility, intelligence, and courage—proving that real security is built intentionally, not reactively.

Words matter in active shooter training. James Hamilton argues that the term “Active Intruder” is not only inaccurate but potentially deadly, leading to hesitation and confusion when every second counts.

Active Shooter tragedies remind us that survival often depends on individual action before police arrive. In this article, James Hamilton challenges outdated guidance, argues against “hiding under desks,” and explains why proactive strategies — rooted in intuition and preparation — save lives.