What characterizes a non-traditional response to an active shooter situation?

A non-traditional response to an active shooter situation is characterized by officers immediately entering the structure upon arrival. In an active shooter scenario, the traditional approach often involves waiting for backup before taking action. However, non-traditional responses prioritize the immediate intervention of officers on the scene to stop the threat as quickly as possible. This approach recognizes that every second is critical in saving lives and that delaying entry could result in additional casualties. By entering the structure immediately, officers aim to neutralize the threat and provide assistance to victims, which can significantly impact the outcome of the situation.

In contrast, the other options reflect more conventional tactics employed in law enforcement responses. Waiting for backup, focusing on crowd control, or gathering information from witnesses can be necessary elements in various situations, but they do not align with the active engagement needed in an active shooter context.