Ozark Center employees to receive active shooter training basics

Active shooter training for Ozark Center employees will take place at 2:30 pm Tuesday, January 31 at Ozark Center Hope Spring, 3901 E. 32nd Street in Joplin.

Officials with Ozark Center, an entity of Freeman Health System, are partnering with the Joplin Police Department for a potentially life-saving active shooter training Tuesday afternoon.

Joplin Police Officer Lacey Baxter will conduct the hands-on training that includes scenarios ranging from active shooters and angry intruders to bomb threats.

More than 100 Ozark Center employees will participate. A recording of the live training will be available to Ozark Center’s nearly 600 staff.

“Active intruder or shooting training is one way we at Ozark Center are preparing our employees to survive unforeseen situations,” said Vicky Mieseler, Ozark Center’s Chief Administration Officer. “Our goal is to ensure the safety of every individual in every facility.”

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the most effective way for businesses to respond to an active shooter situation is to receive updated training at least once a year.

“Unthinkable events are better responded to when employees are equipped with knowledge,” Mieseler said. “Knowledge of how to recognize and respond to dangerous situations leads to composure – both save lives.”