Which of the following statements is accurate regarding the proper notification of an active shooter incident on the premises?

• A. It helps to empower building occupants with the ability to make an informed decision based on their own condition and location.
• B. It ensures automatic evacuation of all occupants
• C. It guarantees immediate response by authorities
• D. It reduces the need for occupant awareness

Answer: (B)

The important idea here is that notification during an active shooter event should give building occupants timely, accurate information so they can decide what to do based on where they are and what they know about the threat. That means empowering people to choose the safest action for their exact situation—whether that’s evacuating, sheltering in place, or moving to a safer area. The goal is to support informed decision-making rather than prescribing a single action for everyone.

Automatic evacuation of all occupants isn’t always safe or appropriate. Some areas may be blocked or present exposure along the route, and in other cases sheltering in place protects people from moving through danger. A notification system should help people assess their options and act accordingly rather than assuming a universal response.

Immediate response by authorities isn’t guaranteed in the moment; responders need time to receive information, mobilize, and locate the threat. Notification can aid coordination, but it doesn’t instantly deliver help to every location.

Finally, good notification should maintain or increase occupant awareness rather than reduce it. Keeping people informed helps them stay situationally aware and make better decisions during a chaotic situation.