When confronting an active shooter as a last resort, what should be considered to effectively disrupt the shooter?

Choosing to throw items and improvise weapons when confronting an active shooter as a last resort can be effective in creating a distraction and disrupting the shooter's focus. This action can momentarily surprise the shooter, potentially giving victims an opportunity to escape or take additional actions for their safety. In high-stress situations, the aim is to throw off the shooter's aim, disrupt their plan, and create chaos that might hinder their actions.

The approach of throwing objects can also serve to rally others to take similar action, fostering a collective effort to counter the shooter. This is an aggressive tactic that recognizes the dire nature of the situation and the need for immediate responses under life-threatening circumstances.

Other strategies, such as avoiding collaboration or acting solo, can leave individuals vulnerable and less effective in a high-stress scenario. Likewise, acting passively and trying not to draw attention can lead to inaction during a time when action is critical. Attempting to talk the shooter down may be unrealistic or risky, as it requires a level of communication that is unlikely to be effective in an immediate crisis involving a violent individual. Thus, the choice to actively disrupt the shooter using available items reflects a proactive stance in an otherwise reactive situation, which is essential for survival in an active shooter scenario