Evaluating Preparedness and Lessening Casualties in Active Attack Events

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

The devastating incidences of active attack events necessitate swift and effective responses from both first responders and civilians. This study addresses critical gaps in understanding preparedness and response strategies in such events through the Avoid. Deny. Defend (ADD) operational guidelines.
The study explores the self-perceived preparedness of everyday civilians and subject matter experts to utilize ADD operational guidelines during active attack events. It also investigates the efficacy of simulated agents applying these operational guidelines through agent-based modeling simulations to reduce casualties. Lastly it assesses the impact of architectural design to increase agents’ ability to employ operational guidelines to mitigate casualties.
Employing community and subject-matter-expert surveys alongside agent-based modeling simulations, the study bridges gaps in understanding target hardening and access control effectiveness. Survey results from the Texas State University community reveal varying levels of preparedness and the simulations demonstrate that reducing target suitability and modifying access control contribute to decreased casualties.
This study emphasizes the significance of widespread education and practical implementation of operational guidelines, as evidenced by survey and simulation results. The results of this study calls attention to the importance of preparedness and effective response strategies in enhancing survival prospects during active attack events.

Authors

• Christine Love, Texas State University

• Yongmei Lu, Texas State University