What should individuals be prepared to do if they encounter an active shooter?

In the context of an active shooter situation, ensuring personal safety is the utmost priority. The correct answer emphasizes the reality that individuals may need to take direct action to protect themselves or others if they find themselves in immediate danger. Fighting back can involve using available resources, creating distractions, or otherwise intervening when escape or hiding is not viable, particularly when lives are at stake.

The circumstances of an active shooter incident are chaotic and unpredictable, and waiting for authorities may not always be a viable option, as they could be too far away or unable to respond immediately. Therefore, being prepared to fight for one's life can be a critical component of survival in such dire situations.

The focus on personal safety and empowerment in an active shooter scenario underscores the importance of understanding that self-defense may be necessary when the threat is dire. This answer reflects the critical mindset needed during an active shooter incident, where immediate action can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.