INDIANAPOLIS — It's an all too familiar reality.
There have been more than 530 mass shootings in the United States so far in 2023, according to the Gun Violence Archive.
"I stopped counting. That's insane," said Alexander Gerardot, from Indianapolis.
These shootings reshape the way many people live their daily lives and the way big events operate.
"I don't attend large gatherings in public anymore. I don't know if that's a fear that's just developed in my life because of mass shootings, but it's something that I take in consideration before I go out in public," Gerardot said.
As we hear time and time again, after each mass shooting, "We can't live in fear."
Josh Sullivan, an active shooter survival instructor, said a way to fight fear is to be prepared.
"Situational awareness, in regard to an active threat of any kind, is the number one (aspect) that will save your life," Sullivan said. "Never have your back to an entrance or exit. Being able to see what's coming before it gets there. Look around and seeing who's not dressed the same as everybody else should be."
In an active shooter situation, Sullivan said if you can't find a way to escape, the worst thing you can do is hide.
"What we want you to do is create time and space and impede that person while you're preparing to engage them, if you have to. Getting a fire extinguisher, getting scissors, getting something if you have to," Sullivan said. "Giving yourself the best chance for survival by not being seen, hopefully, but if you are seen, how you can bring the attack and end the situation yourself."
A mass shooting is defined as four or more people shot, whether they're injured or killed, that does not include the shooter.