Since that time, ALERRT has partnered with the FBI through the Bureau of Justice Assistance grant program to expedite active-shooter training to state and local law enforcement agencies across the country, saving countless lives.

Understanding there is no substitute for training scenarios that force first responders to react to emergency situations, community leaders throughout Bell and Williamson counties have worked tirelessly to protect our citizens. Our very own Williamson County Sheriff’s Office has eight ALERRT-trained instructors that provide active shooter training and use-of-force encounters in urban and rural scenarios.

While ALERRT’s instruction focuses on three key areas — stopping the killing, stopping the dying and quick evacuation of the wounded — the secondary skills individual responders gain during training make our communities safer. These preparatory skills make a real difference in the way first responders approach all facets of their jobs.

First responders who receive this training report an increased situational awareness in all areas of their work. By prioritizing the most critical aspect of any emergency or mass casualty event, officers can effectively respond and save lives.

This training instructs officers to evaluate alternative outcomes and scenarios as they approach volatile situations. Through stress inoculation, ALERRT further prepares officers for how they will react, both physically and emotionally when confronted with an emergency.

ALERRT provides training beyond first responders. Officers who attend the training are certified to instruct community policing seminars, equipping communities with situational awareness and an understanding of emergency procedures.

Following the tragedy at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, ALERRT-trained Williamson County deputies offered active-shooter training to over 700 individuals at their “Places of Worship Security Summit.” The training teaches citizens to assess how they can protect themselves and assist those around them.

When citizens have emergency procedures in place at their places of worship, schools and workplaces, it helps first responders get people to safety faster.

Effective training and preparation gives us hope that our first responders can respond in our darkest hours should the unthinkable happen. While it can’t put an end to evil, it can bring to life the stirring words of scripture, “let not your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

May each of us prepare should the unthinkable happen in our communities, but not live in fear. Let us go forward with confidence that we are prepared to protect and defend our communities, homes and families in all areas, always.

U.S. Rep. John R. Carter is in his seventh term representing Texas’ 31st Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Williamson County Sheriff Robert Chody was sworn into office in January and had previously served as a constable and an Austin police officer.