Citrus County Schools

ALICE is a nationally recognized active assailant response training program designed to prepare students and staff to respond quickly and effectively during an emergency. More than just a safety procedure, ALICE empowers individuals with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions that can save lives in the face of violence.

Rather than relying on a single response, ALICE provides a set of proactive strategies that can be adapted to the unique circumstances of any situation.

ALICE stands for:

• Alert – Become aware of a potential threat as quickly as possible. Early recognition and acceptance of danger are critical to survival and allow individuals to make the best decisions for their safety.
• Lockdown – When evacuation is not possible, ALICE promotes an enhanced lockdown strategy designed to delay or deter an intruder. This approach focuses on securing and fortifying spaces to buy time until help arrives.
• Inform – Communication is key. Sharing real-time information about the location and movement of a threat—through PA systems, 911 calls, or other communication methods—helps others make informed decisions and increases their chances of getting to safety.
• Counter – As a last resort, counter strategies are used to create distraction and disrupt the intruder’s ability to cause harm. This may include noise, movement, and confusion. Counter is not about fighting—it is about creating an opportunity to escape.
• Evacuate – When it is safe to do so, individuals are encouraged to evacuate using any available exit and move to a secure, designated location. Practicing evacuation routes during drills ensures a faster, more effective response in real situations.