Executive Summary
- A Portsmouth gym is offering active shooter training in response to recent violence.
- The program was launched following two mass shootings in Rhode Island over the last two months.
- Training sessions are specifically designed to teach women how to react to potential attacks.
PORTSMOUTH, R.I. — A local fitness center has launched a specialized active shooter training program in response to two recent mass shootings that have impacted the Rhode Island community within the last two months, according to a report by WJAR.
The initiative aims to equip local residents, specifically focusing on women, with necessary reaction protocols and self-defense strategies during potential violent attacks. Martha Konstandinidis of NBC 10 News reported that the program is being spearheaded by a trainer dedicated to teaching situational awareness and immediate response techniques. The decision to implement these safety sessions underscores a growing concern among business owners and residents regarding personal safety in public spaces.
Community Safety Protocols
The emergence of civilian-focused active shooter training in private facilities highlights a shift in public safety dynamics, where community members are increasingly seeking tactical preparation independent of law enforcement agencies. While authorities typically advise standard "Run, Hide, Fight" methodologies, the integration of physical preparedness drills into local businesses suggests a heightened perception of threat within the region. This proactive stance reflects broader national trends where communities affected by proximity to gun violence often accelerate the adoption of private security training measures.
