Port hosts active shooter drill

Sadly, mass shootings seem all too common in today's society -- so much so that people are asking themselves how they can be better prepared.

The Downtown Partnership teamed up with the Tampa Police Department and the Port of Tampa to host an active shooter forum.  The event included a live active shooter demonstration and discussions on terrorism and personal safety in today's world. 

The event sold out as dozens of business owners and city leaders attended.

VIDEO: Watch the simulated active shooter event

There are about 11,000 gun-related homicides in the U.S. That number has been dropping gradually over the past two decades.

Tampa police officers tell FOX 13 the vast majority of gun deaths are not mass shootings.  In fact, it accounts for well under five percent of all shooting deaths.

Officers say the goal of Wednesday's forum was to raise awareness on security trends and provide personal safety tips.