Police, Firefighters to Use Seal Beach School to Train for Active-Shooter Scenarios

Next week, as McGaugh Elementary School students happily skip school for a week on spring break, the Seal Beach Police Department will commandeer their campus.

On Tuesday, officers, joined by firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority, will use the east side of the campus at 1698 Bolsa Ave. to conduct an active-shooting training exercise, according to a Seal Beach P.D. press release.

"We chose the eastern portions of the school because the pool areas and tennis courts have city of Seal Beach recreational programs running every day of spring break," said Sgt. Phil Gonshak. 

The officers and firefighters will apply dynamic approach and entry techniques learned from years of practice and experience with active shooter incidents worldwide, according to the release. 

"This exercise is closely supervised and controlled," Gonshak said. "No live ammunition will be allowed in the operational area during the training. Safety officers will be in place to monitor and we are posting ample signage and greeters."

However, he added, if you are on campus that day, please plan accordingly.