Everywhere I go, I see at least five or more people of all ages begging to be attacked. It is actually quite amazing. They read and see the news stories on a daily basis of people being attacked, kidnapped, robbed, raped, assaulted, and on and on. But, does anyone ever ask themselves, “What should I be doing to prevent myself from becoming another victim?” The answer is almost always, no. No one seems to be concerned with whether or not they are conducting themselves in a way that would make them a prime target.
No matter where I am out in public, I see the majority of people going about their day wearing ear buds or with their face buried in their phones. They are totally consumed with what they are listening to or looking at without a care in the world for what is going on around them. They are essentially deaf and blind from a personal safety standpoint.
Five Senses
We only have five senses. These senses are essential for our survival. Especially, our hearing, sight, and touch. Smell is really only going to help you in the case of fire or a gas leak. And taste, well, I guess that will help you survive if you’re about to ingest spoiled food or poison. So, it really boils down to hearing and sight when it comes to avoiding an attack. Touch is only going to come into play when you’re being attacked. A little too late.
So, what does everyone do? They stick earbuds in their ears and bury their faces in their smartphones when they are out and about in public by the thousands.
And, what do attackers do? They look for the softest target, the easiest prey. The ones who won’t see nor hear them coming. Genius right?
When you are focused on that little 2.5” x 5” screen, you are blind. You are also deaf because all of your brain’s attention is on your phone screen and you will not process what you are hearing. And then, you stick the ear buds in – completely deaf.
Situational Awareness
Situational awareness is one of the key disciplines we focus on in our classes. In order to be situationally aware and avoid becoming a target of attack, you are going to need your sight and hearing. Leave the earbuds for the beach. Put the phone down when in public. Don’t give attackers one more soft target to prey upon. Your loved ones are counting on you to come home. Don’t you think they deserve that?
If you think someone could benefit from this, please forward it along.
Be Safe
– Joe Shahoud
Joe Shahoud is the owner and lead instructor at Safe Family Defense LLC, a firearms training academy that serves the greater Columbia, SC area specializing in pistol, concealed weapons permits, personal defense, and general education in personal safety. Visit their classes page to see what is available and enroll.
Joe is also the owner of Safe Family Safes, an online retailer that specializes in fast-access smart gun safes and other gear essential to the concealed carry lifestyle.
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