Chief Van Gorder: Multi-agency active‑shooter, RTF training refreshed school, rescue and command skills

Chief Van Gorder told the Town of Zionsville Safety Board on July 20 that the fire department hosted a multi‑day, multi‑agency active‑shooter exercise that included rescue task force (RTF) training, school‑administrator command‑and‑control drills, drone use and camera‑system integration. "We did host, an annual event, that we try and do as, refreshing our skills for responding to an active shooter situation," Van Gorder said, adding instructors flagged items that worked well and areas to refine.

Board members urged more frequent training. One member said, "I think once a year for that type of training is the bare minimum. I think twice a year," and suggested using school breaks or vacant facilities to expand opportunities. Van Gorder said the department will pursue additional sessions, including possibilities during fall or winter breaks, and emphasized respect for law‑enforcement‑only materials while seeking broader participation from faith‑based and other community venues.

Why it matters: the exercise brought together police and fire agencies across Boone County and trained school leaders on emergency command roles, which the chief said will improve coordinated response and victim rescue. The department described RTF work focused on moving victims from inside a building to casualty collection points and plans to add hospital/transport coordination in future drills.

What’s next: the department will explore additional sessions and potential grant funding to sustain expanded training.