CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte churches are taking action to protect their congregations after this month's deadly mass shooting at a Texas Baptist church.
Dozens of clergy members packed into the police and fire training academy Tuesday morning, where they sat through a two-hour safety training session.
Officers said the purpose of Tuesday’s training is not to scare people, but to prepare them.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said it takes officers an average of five minutes to respond during an active-shooter situation, so they taught people how to survive on their own until police get there.
CMPD’s “ABC's” of survival:
- Avoid
- Barricade
- Counter and Survive
Police focused on tips like having an exit strategy and escape route planned. If you can't immediately escape, barricade yourself in a room or turn off the lights to make the room look like it's unoccupied.
Police also said that if you're within arms-reach of the shooter, attack them from the neck up, go for their eyes and try to jam their gun.
Clergy members told Channel 9 that they'll be working on putting together an action plan for emergencies. Many are also planning to secure their buildings by shoring up the doors and installing locks.
For more information, call 704-336-2310 or email crimepreventionunit@cmpd.org
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