During an active shooter response, how many officers are typically formed into teams?

The formation of two to four officers into teams during an active shooter response is based on a tactical approach that balances effectiveness and safety. This range allows units to operate efficiently while maintaining adequate manpower to confront threats and manage casualties. Teams of two officers enable effective pair tactics, allowing for mutual support and covering each other’s blind spots, which is critical in dynamic and potentially lethal situations.

Additionally, having a team size of four officers provides enough personnel to effectively engage with the suspect and ensure that officers can address various aspects of the incident, such as securing the scene, assisting victims, and maintaining situational awareness with a wider perimeter.

This size is commonly recommended in law enforcement training for active shooter scenarios to optimize responsiveness and ensure officers can work collaboratively while minimizing risks to themselves and potential victims, without overwhelming resources or creating confusion at the scene. Smaller or larger teams may not provide the same balance of coverage, communication, and tactical flexibility needed in such high-stress environments.