There are numerous safety rules to follow when it comes to firearm ownership, particularly if you carry in public. Perhaps the most vital safety tactic of all isn’t a single rule or guideline: it’s situational awareness.
Situational awareness means constantly being aware of your surroundings and the activity around you. Such awareness must be practiced, but once cultivated, it can help you do anything from preventing accidental firearms discharge, to avoiding a car accident, to preventing a crime. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Get Out of Your Head
The foundation of all situational awareness is being focused on the world around you – and nothing hinders situational awareness faster than distracting yourself with thoughts and worries. When you’re out in public, your attention should be focused on everything around you. If you catch yourself daydreaming or focusing on your own thoughts, refocus back to what’s going on around you.
2. Establish a Baseline for Activity Around You
Whenever you enter a new place, or a new situation, take a moment to notice things like how loud it is, how quickly people are moving and what smells are in the air. Significant changes to this baseline are often an indicator of trouble. However, signs of trouble can also be subtle, which is why it’s so important to always remain alert to sudden changes in your environment.
3. Become Accustomed to Scanning an Area
This goes hand-in-hand with establishing a baseline for activity. Take brief note of the people around you, what they’re doing, how they’re behaving and what they’re holding. Likewise, take note of newcomers whenever they enter your view.
4. Avoid Overuse of You Cell Phone While Walking
People who walk down the street engrossed in their device are deaf and blind to almost everything going on around them. Save cell phone use for when you’re at home, or in a safe public venue such as a restaurant – not walking around.
5. Listen to Your Gut
If something feels wrong about a situation, there probably is something wrong. Follow your intuition and always be aware of your surroundings. Staying alert is the best way to keep you, and those around you, safe.
If you want to learn how to safely shoot a handgun, visit Las Vegas Shooting Center. We have a variety of packages to choose from that allow you to shoot firearms of all sizes. Contact us today at 702-778-5872 to schedule your range time.
