'Active Attack Class' Hosted By Purcellville Police Department

PURCELLVILLE, VA — An "active attack class" is coming to Purcellville, courtesy of the Purcellville Police Department. Authorities are offering four in-person classes to choose from on Friday, July 16 and Saturday, July 17.

The four-hour classes are part of the Department of Criminal Justice's Active Attack program. The goal of the class is to teach civilians and first responders how to work cooperatively in case of an emergency like an active shooter.

The Civilian Response and Casualty Care course is being offered free of charge to Loudoun County residents, business owners, and community members. Those who enroll in the class will learn how to recognize an active shooter situation, in addition to emergency first aid and other civilian response options.

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"While summer is a time for planning fun activities, I also hope you take the time to attend a class that could potentially save your life, or the lives of others if you ever find yourself in an active shooter or attack situation," Purcellville Police Chief Cynthia McAlister said. "While we all hope this will never happen to us, unfortunately active attacks happen in many different locations, including government buildings, grocery stores, colleges, retail stores, police and fire stations, and schools."

To sign up for a class, residents can register using the link for their preferred date and time.

• Friday, July 16
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday, July 17
  • 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

All classes will be held at Patrick Henry College's Hodel building, located at 10 Patrick Henry Circle. They will be held in the second floor's south classroom.

" I hope that no one among us ever has to witness such an event," McAlister said. "But if one ever does occur in your presence, I want you to be prepared for how to act to protect yourself and if able, others too."