Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Act 120 Practice Exam

If an officer is shot in the leg during an active shooter situation, what is the recommended response?

1. Stay put and wait for backup

2. Attempt to treat the injury immediately

3. Continue to eliminate the threat

4. Retreat to a safe location

The correct answer is: Continue to eliminate the threat

In an active shooter situation, the primary objective is to neutralize the threat as quickly as possible to protect potential victims and minimize further harm. Continuing to eliminate the threat is paramount, as the longer an active shooter remains operational, the greater the risk to innocent lives. When an officer is shot, the urgency of the situation does not diminish. While personal safety and self-care are critical, in an active shooter scenario, the immediate priority must be to address the threat. Some standard protocols emphasize that unless incapacitated or rendered incapable of action, intervening to stop the shooter can save lives, including those of civilians and fellow officers. Although treating the injury is essential, it may need to be deferred until the threat is neutralized. Similarly, retreating or staying put could pose significant risks both to the injured officer and others in the vicinity. Thus, continuing the engagement with the shooter aligns with tactical best practices aimed at preserving life and ensuring public safety.