Excelsior Springs, MO – At this Wednesday’s monthly meeting at the Montgomery Event Center, the Excelsior Springs Chamber of Commerce continued their new educational initiative to enrich its members and the broader community through knowledge and preparedness. This month’s Chamber Luncheon featured special guests from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Kansas City field office, underscoring a commitment to public safety amidst increasing concerns over active shooter situations.
FBI Kansas City Special Agent Robert Gunderson and Public Affairs Specialist Dixon Land led a discussion on how individuals should react in an active shooter scenario. Drawing from extensive experience and a dedication to community safety, the presentation focused on the actionable strategy of “Run, Hide, Fight” – advising attendees first to attempt escape, then hide as a secondary measure, and as a last resort, fight back against the threat.
According to Dixon Land, the FBI’s outreach is not limited to business and civic groups but also extends to religious communities, emphasizing the importance of preparedness across all sectors of society. “Our primary focus is to educate the community. Answering the questions, ‘If you run into a situation like this, what steps should you take?'” Land explained, highlighting the crucial steps individuals should follow to maximize their chances of survival.
This educational session comes in the wake of the shooting incident at the Chiefs Super Bowl Celebration parade, a tragedy that hit close to home for many Excelsior Springs residents who were in attendance. Land noted that while the luncheon’s timing in relation to the recent event was coincidental, the need for such preparedness discussions has never been more apparent. The FBI insists on the importance of vigilance and the “see something, say something” philosophy, particularly in large gatherings where recognizing suspicious behavior can be challenging.
Land deferred specific comments on the parade incident to the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD), emphasizing the ongoing investigation led by local law enforcement. However, the message remained clear: awareness and preparedness can significantly impact personal and community safety in times of crisis.
The Chamber’s initiative to invite knowledgeable speakers on such pressing topics reflects a broader commitment to the welfare of the Excelsior Springs community. By focusing on practical advice and actionable strategies, the Luncheon served as a networking event and an important forum for public safety education, leaving attendees better informed and prepared for potential future emergencies.
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