What is ASHER?
ASHER, short for “Active Shooter Event Response,” refers to a set of protocols designed to address active shooter situations. These procedures are aimed at guiding individuals and emergency personnel on how to act swiftly and effectively to maximize safety and minimize casualties. ASHER protocols are often integrated into gun safety courses and training sessions to ensure that both civilians and professionals understand how to respond during such high-stress, life-threatening events.
In ASHER protocols, the focus is often on quick decision-making, such as whether to evacuate or find cover, based on the environment and the shooter’s proximity. For those involved in firearms training or working in security, ASHER highlights the importance of having a well-developed plan and being prepared for the unexpected. NFPA 3000 establishes a unified standard for preparing, responding to, and recovering from active shooter or hostile events by promoting a common communication protocol and integrated response across agencies. This standard emphasizes coordinated planning among police, fire, EMS, and other responders to streamline actions in high-stress situations and improve victim survival rates through shared command and clear operational roles.
Understanding ASHER is crucial for anyone participating in firearms training, as it emphasizes how to react under pressure in a real-world threat scenario. Knowing these protocols can help avoid panic and ensure a coordinated response, whether at a shooting range, school, workplace, or other public places. You can access information on NFPA 3000, the “Standard for an Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response (ASHER) Program through the official National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) website. This standard is widely used by law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other public safety agencies to ensure a coordinated and efficient response.
