First responders from neighboring communities and as far away as Wyoming and Pennsylvania were in Newton last week, to get trained on how to respond to various active shooter situations. The Integrated Response Training with 35 law enforcement, EMS, and Fire Department personnel at Community Heights Alliance Church was federally funded and free to those who attended. Luke Fleener, the Sheriff in Webster County, was the trainer. He says these active shooter situations will unfortunately continue to happen, so this Integrated Response Training teaches law officers, EMS, and fire department personnel to work together to save lives.

“Put them in the same classroom and give them the same playbook. Then run scenarios and scenarios and scenarios with them to increase their efficiency on life saving techniques and saving lives. That’s our ultimate goal.”

Fleener adds the scenarios that are simulated are based on shootings that have actually occurred. The first responders who received the training turn into trainers and teach their colleagues when they return home.