Oaklawn Enhances Safety with Active Aggressor Training Program Provided by Tarian

[Marshall, Mich.] – Oaklawn recently hosted an intensive active aggressor/shooter training program in partnership with Tarian, a leading nationwide security company. The program was designed to ensure the safety and preparedness of patients, visitors, and staff in the event of a critical incident.

The training, which included both classroom sessions and practical mock exercises, equipped Oaklawn staff with essential tools and strategies to respond effectively to active aggressor situations. Topics covered during the sessions included potential indicators of violent behavior, appropriate staff responses during an active shooter event, mitigation strategies, and protective measures to reduce risk.

“The safety of our patients, visitors, and staff is our top priority,” said Scott McDonald, Safety & Security Liaison at Oaklawn. “This training reinforces our commitment to preparedness and ensures our team is ready to respond quickly and effectively to any threat.”

The program emphasized situational awareness, decision-making under pressure, and coordinated response efforts to enhance overall safety. Staff participated in mock exercises that simulated real-life scenarios, providing valuable hands-on experience in a controlled environment.

This training represents the first phase of a comprehensive safety initiative. Employing a “Train the Trainer” approach, the initial phase focuses on equipping key leaders with the expertise to become subject matter experts. These leaders will subsequently train the entirety of Oaklawn’s staff, encompassing approximately 1,200 employees. By building internal expertise, Oaklawn ensures consistent and thorough training deployment across the organization.

Additionally, Oaklawn has integrated their “Stop the Bleed” program into the training, a national initiative aimed at empowering individuals to act as immediate responders in life-threatening bleeding emergencies.

“Through hands-on training sessions, staff learn essential techniques such as applying direct pressure, using tourniquets, and packing wounds to control severe bleeding effectively,” said Sarah Hughes, Director of Emergency Preparedness at Oaklawn. “This program enhances the hospital’s overall emergency preparedness by equipping its team with lifesaving skills that can be applied in critical situations, both within the hospital and in the broader community.”

Oaklawn offers their “Stop the Bleed” classes to the community and can contact Sarah Hughes at (269) 789-7144 for more information.

Tarian, known for its expertise in security solutions and training programs, tailored the sessions to address Oaklawn’s specific needs. The partnership highlights the importance of proactive measures to mitigate potential threats while fostering a culture of safety and vigilance.

“We commend Oaklawn for taking the initiative to invest in such comprehensive training,” said Stephen Weiler, Manager of Resiliency Services at Tarian. “Being prepared and informed is critical to protecting lives, and we are proud to support Oaklawn in enhancing its safety protocols.”

By participating in this program, Oaklawn has further strengthened its emergency preparedness efforts, ensuring a safer environment for everyone who walks through its doors.