A rash of recent mass shootings in the United States has many people concerned about violence reaching them, even in central Iowa.

Perry Police Chief Eric Vaughn says there’s never been an active shooter situation in the area, though he emphasizes that law enforcement is always ready to respond should the need arise. In particular, Vaughn helps to conduct what’s known as ALICE training (Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, and Evacuate) at the schools in the area to ensure that the students and staff know what to do in case of a shooter. However, Vaughn says what gives him great concern is that acts of mass violence can happen anywhere and with a multitude of weaponry.

With that in mind, he points out that tips given from the public are a good defense against such incidents. “So I think we just kind of have to be vigilant and pay attention to those things, not only as officers, but as the public too. We kind of go on that philosophy of ‘see something, say something.’ If you hear somebody talking in a strange or violent manner, you need to let us know. Or if you see something that concerns you, talk to somebody, call the police department so we can go and try to intervene before something does happen.”

Anyone with information to share with the Perry Police can call the non-emergency line, 515-465-4636, at any time of day. Tips can be given anonymously. To hear more from Vaughn, listen to yesterday and today’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County programs at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.