What is the minimum number of active shooter trained officers recommended for an organized contact team?

An organized contact team for active shooter situations is essential for effectively responding to rapidly evolving and critical incidents. The recommended minimum of five active shooter trained officers ensures adequate coverage and capability to manage a variety of situations that may arise during an active shooter event.

With five officers, the team can be divided into roles that allow for both tactical maneuvering and providing immediate care to any potential victims. This level of staffing also permits a safer approach, as it enables officers to move in formations that protect each other while engaging a threat or assessing the situation. Furthermore, with five trained personnel, there are options for backup and support, ensuring that the team can sustain operations while addressing dynamic challenges that may arise during the incident.

A smaller number of officers, such as two or three, would likely limit the team's effectiveness in engaging a shooter and addressing the safety of civilians, making five the minimum number advisable to achieve a capable and responsive contact team.