BRIDGEWATER, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Bridgewater Police Department will host a Civilian Response and Casualty Care (CRCC) training session in partnership with the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services on Friday, March 6, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The training will take place at Arey Hall, located in the basement of the Bridgewater Community Center at 201 Green Street. The program is aimed at educating local businesses, churches and concerned residents on how to respond effectively in the event of an active shooter incident.

The CRCC course is built on the Avoid, Deny, Defend — also known as Run, Hide, Fight — strategy developed in 2004 by the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training center. The curriculum provides participants with practical strategies and guidance designed to increase survivability during an active threat situation.

The training also incorporates principles from the Stop the Bleed Coalition, equipping civilians with basic life-saving medical skills to assist victims before first responders arrive. Topics will include the history and frequency of active shooter incidents, civilian response options and fundamental medical interventions to help prevent avoidable deaths.

There is no cost to attend; however, pre-registration is required. Additional information is available through the Department of Criminal Justice Services website.