I'm not a security expert... then again it doesn't take an expert to suspect there may have been an inadequate response to the shootings early this morning on the VT campus, and that inadequate response may have led to significantly more senseless loss of life.
Something went wrong. Very wrong. Whether protocols weren't followed, or were inadequately followed, or were not communicated, or simply didn't exist -- they were clearly inadequate and ineffective -- and the result is tragedy, compounded.
This isn't time for blame. Or finger pointing. There's time enough for that later.
(please, keep reading)
This is, however, time to take a hard look at the emergency protocols in place where you work, where you go to school or where you teach. Is there a plan? Do you know the plan? Do your students? Your co-workers? Emergency responders?
If history has taught us anything about senseless tragedies like this -- especially like this -- it's that they will be repeated. Somwhere there's a person on the edge; somebody with a death wish, and a crooked desire for glory who's looking at the TV right now and thinking ugly, ugly thoughts.
Don't let it happen.
Be aware. Be watchful. Be safe. And most of all, have a plan.