A training center at the University of Central Florida is using cutting-edge video game technology and animation to prepare everyone from teachers to first responders on how to react to an active shooter.
The Army and Homeland Security Department worked together to develop a $5.6-million computer-based simulator known as the Enhanced Dynamic Geo-Social Environment, or EDGE . The training center is housed at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and offers numerous role-playing opportunities that can be used to train anyone in the world with a computer.
Originally designed for police and fire agencies, the civilian version of the program is being expanded to schools to allow teachers and other school personnel to train for active shooters alongside first responders.
Homeland Security officials say the schools version should be ready for launch by spring.
School safety advocates say safety training gets pushed to the back burner until a tragedy happens. Amanda Klinger, director of operations for nonprofit Educators School Safety Network, said this new program could help change that.
"I hope that people will sort of see this simulation as a really cool and engaging way," she said, "to think about school safety."