In case you weren’t able to join us, or want to hear it again, the February meeting will be available for a limited time right here!
February. Valentine’s month. The time of year for love and demonstrable affection, traditionally in the form of candy and flowers (or with our group, poisons and red herrings). And because we both love our members and want to demonstrate our affection, we thought this would be the perfect time for an active shooter class with the Columbus Police Department!
Unfortunately, active shooter classes are a thing now. Many workplaces have them so employees will know what to do if someone shows up with both a weapon and intent. And for authors of mysteries, thrillers, police procedurals, cozies, etc., this is doubly important. We want this information not just for our own safety and understanding, but also for our writing. Detail is key, and we need to know what’s realistic and what isn’t. If your protagonist is being hunted by someone, suddenly empowering them with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skills and SEAL tactical knowledge isn’t really realistic and may turn off a reader. What are typical motives for active shooters? Is there a preferred weapon type? Do they wear body armor? And how does a potential victim without years of training stay one step ahead? Do they hide? What’s the best way to fight back?
To find out, join us Saturday, 2/20/21, from 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., for a Zoom presentation with Columbus Police officer Rick Hannah, who will provide a PowerPoint presentation on active shooter information, then lead a discussion on what the entertainment industry often gets right and wrong in movies, television shows and the rest. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions; please contact us at buckeyecrimewriters@gmail.com for a Zoom link. And please note: this will be a member-only event for BCW and chapters with the national Sisters In Crime organization. If you wish to be a member, please contact us via gmail . . . we’d love to have you! And as always, keep writing.
Patrick Stuart, BCW President