Last Friday, several Barton County employees gathered in the County Commission chambers for a program on what to do should there be an active shooter in the building.

County Administrator Richard Boeckman told commissioners Monday morning that the seminar was a success, sparking numerous questions. It also made it clear there was a desire to hear a more detailed presentation.

Instructors for the class were Great Bend police Sgt. Jefferson Davis and officer Jason Settle, both of whom were present at the Monday commission meeting. “There was an interest in it,” Davis said of the material.

Sadly, he said, “there is not cookie cutter answer.” But, being aware of what to do can make a big difference.

“This was a smaller part of a vulnerability review,” Davis said. The comprehensive study will point out security weaknesses and will be implemented over time.

The training comes on the heals of another safety measure taken by the county, Boeckman said. The commission approved April 6 the installation of panic buttons and related software in county offices. 

Under this system, a discreet click of a mouse, keystroke or optional hardware rapidly sends pre-recorded desktop alerts, SMS text and email messages. The alerts can be customized by level of urgency to assure targeted assistance, including the Sheriff’s Office and 911.