Connecticut State Police, like law enforcement across the country, are on high alert after the deadly shooting in Thousand Oaks, Calif.
With every mass shooting that occurs, law enforcement across the country learns and adapts.
"Early reports are that he used some form of smoke grenade or something like that so that's one of the first times we've seen something like that used so now we'll have to adapt to that and incorporate that in our training,” explained Connecticut State Police Trooper First Class Dan Jewiss.
Jewiss said State Police practice how to approach, enter and move through a building with an active aggressor, their focus to quickly stop the threat to save lives.
“When we have civilian lives in danger, we're going to put ourselves in danger and go through that door to try and stop the threat,” Jewiss said.
That is exactly what Sgt. Ron Helus of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office did, sacrificing his own life to save others. And while law enforcement will continue to train and adapt, police said civilians can also help by always remaining aware of your surroundings.
“When you go into a location, you should be aware of where the exits are, not just where you're in the habit of exiting and entering, but what other possible exits and that doesn't just mean doors,” Jewiss said.
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State Police said they’ve recently started outfitting troopers with ballistic vests and helmets as well. They also have an active aggressor training for civilians, done mainly at schools, businesses and churches.
