After a Defensive Shooting

Many of us train with our firearms for the rare chance that we will use that firearm in a defensive shooting. Very few of us are prepared for, or train for, what to do after a shooting takes place.

There are some important steps that one should take immediately after a self-defense shooting to mitigate any further trauma or risks to yourself.

From CCW Safe’s web site they list 10 necessary steps one should take immediately after a defensive action takes place involving a gun.

1. MAKE SURE YOU ARE SAFE: Make sure you are safe from any threat before doing anything. Verify that the suspect no longer poses a threat. Visually scan for other suspects and visually verify that the suspect no longer has access to a weapon. Do not approach the suspect or move evidence.

2.BE THE FIRST TO CALL 911: Be the first one to call 911, even if you did not pull the trigger. If the incident was serious enough for you to deploy your firearm, make a report. Always remember police officers commonly identify the first person who calls as the victim.

3.INITIATE EMERGENCY RESPONSE: From a position of safety call 911. Request emergency medical services if needed for you the suspect or others. Describe what you are wearing and let the dispatcher know you will not have your weapon in your hand when the officers arrive. Tell the 911 Operator something similar to, “I HAD TO USE THE WEAPON IN SELF DEFENSE.” Or “I was forced to defend myself”, “I was in fear for my life”, or “I was attacked”. Do not elaborate or give a detailed account of the incident. This is not the time.

There are seven more steps that one should take after a defensive shooting you can find them here.