Chula Vista Police Cruiser
A Chula Vista police cruiser. Credit: OnScene.TV

The Chula Vista Police Department is inviting those interested in learning more about preventing and protecting themselves in potential active shooter situations to a public workshop from 6 – 8 p.m. Aug.  29. The training will take place at Chula Vista City Council Chambers, 276 Fourth Ave. 

The free workshop, to be conducted by Detective Eddie Chavira of the department’s SWAT and Special  Investigations Unit, will cover the fundamental principles of “Run, Hide, Fight,” a set of protocols recommended by law enforcement agencies for how to respond in active shooter situations. Active shooter situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly; being prepared will give the best chance of survival. 

“Sadly, we have seen shooters in churches, movie theaters, shopping malls, and grocery stores,”  Chavira said. “This workshop will help community members recognize some of the signs of someone  who is looking to harm a mass of people.” 

The workshop format is mostly lecture, with an opportunity at the end for participants to ask questions. The workshop material is suitable for teenagers and older, Chavira said. No registration is required. 

For more information on how to prepare for active shooter situations, visit the FEMA Active Shooter webpage.