One of the curious things about people is how quickly, and sometimes how slowly, we learn. In the wake of the Paris attacks and now San Bernardino, it seems people are finally starting to take preparedness a bit more seriously. We can sometimes be a bit harsh on civilians, and honestly, it is often quite funny, but when disaster strikes we all want everyone to be okay. We train for the worst-case scenario all the time, so preparedness is part of the air we breathe; it's not that way for civilians who only know it through the evening news or their Facebook feed.
We have to give credit where it is due, and we have witnessed true heroism from people totally untrained and unprepared, who stand up when the worst day of their lives arrives. From the stoicism, everyday humor, and bravery exhibited by Londoners during The Blitz and the IRA bombing campaign from the '70s through the '90s, to the defiance of Parisians in the wake of the Charlie Hebdo and latest Paris attacks, civilians have greater reservoirs of bravery than they are aware of. But they are seldom prepared to act, and as a result, it takes time for them to react—that time costs lives.
is the Founder of Brotherhood Life. He has combined his real world experience as a Special Forces Operator and Sniper with his passion for strength & conditioning, nutrition and mental toughness to create the world's premier training system for combat athletes. He's the best selling author of 'Sports Vision Training for Shooting Performance' and has coached hundreds of combat athletes around the globe to their individual success.
I'd just note to be careful of choosing the exits. In, for instance, the Colorado theater shooting most of the people were dropped in front of the exits where they had bunched up trying to get out.
Excellent, Wes. I would add one thing - teach your children. Keep it light, make it fun, but teach them the basics, such as always knowing where the exits are in a building or on a plane, what to do (or not do) if there's a fire, etc. You'll be surprised at how much they retain.
Thank you, Wes, for the excellent article and advice! I'm continually amazed at the amount of free 'education' that is available for civilians, like myself, that is life-saving in deadly situations. That it comes from our Warriors and LEO's, is not surprising, because it is further demonstration of your dedication to service. Thank you, everyone!!! God Bless You!!!
As a civilian, these are some great tips. Thanks very much Wes and have a lovely Christmas.