Who should handle callers seeking information on an active shooter incident?

In the context of an active shooter incident, managing communication, especially with the public and media, is critical for ensuring accurate information dissemination and maintaining operational security. It is essential that a designated supervisor handles callers seeking information. This individual typically has the training and authority to address inquiries appropriately, providing timely updates while adhering to established protocols.

Supervisors are often responsible for overseeing the incident response and ensuring that all statements made to the public are consistent with the information being gathered and disseminated by the incident command structure. They can coordinate with law enforcement and other agencies to provide succinct and accurate updates, thus preventing misinformation from spreading.

Having the lead dispatcher or responding officers handle these calls might divert their focus from immediate response tasks or operational duties. Similarly, the on-site commander is primarily occupied with managing the tactical response to the incident rather than handling external inquiries. Therefore, directing communication to a supervisor helps mitigate chaos and allows for a more organized response to an active shooter incident.