What is the main question responding units need to determine during an active shooter incident?

The main question that responding units need to determine during an active shooter incident is the current location of the shooter(s). This is critical because knowing where the shooter is allows law enforcement to respond more effectively, prioritize the safety of bystanders, and coordinate an approach to neutralize the threat.

Understanding the shooter's location helps in assessing the immediate danger level in different areas, determining evacuation routes for victims, and crafting a tactical response plan. It significantly impacts how responding units will position themselves, how they approach the scene, and ensures a rapid response to mitigate further harm.

While the number of victims, weapons used, and safe areas are all important factors to consider, they become secondary to the immediate and pressing need to ascertain the shooter's whereabouts. This focus on location is integral to the overall response strategy and ensures that response teams can act swiftly to contain the situation.