What is the minimum number of officers required for a contact team during an active shooter situation?

In an active shooter situation, the minimum number of officers required for a contact team is two. This is critical because one officer can provide immediate engagement with the threat, while the second officer can offer support, maintain situational awareness, and ensure that communication lines are effective. The presence of at least two officers enhances tactical effectiveness, allowing them to cover each other's vulnerabilities and execute a coordinated response. This approach is in line with training protocols emphasizing teamwork and safety, which significantly increases the chances of neutralizing the threat effectively while minimizing risk to officers and potential victims.

Having only one officer can compromise safety and operational efficiency, as the solo officer would not be able to adequately monitor threats from multiple angles or provide effective support in high-stress situations. More officers can be beneficial for larger or more complex incidents, but the established minimum of two is essential to ensure a balanced and effective response during active shooter events.