@@ItsOnlyRyanat one time in my life I would purposely wear head phones to give off the appearance I was distracted and couldn’t hear anything around me.
Mr. Glover I am a truck driver not only out of profession, but as of passion. I drive 6 days a week in the Detroit Metro area and I have to say that not only are you correct about SA, but it's something I know I practice daily yet have not mastered. Being aware has saved my life at intersections where another rig would run their red light or when people cut in front of me and slam on the brakes because the gas station or McDonalds is right there and they don't wanna wait 4 extra seconds behind me. Later in your video, when you mentioned the red car, it immediately snapped my attention to a red Prius parked in a driveway. Now I'd like to share a short story with you and the rest of this community about how situational awareness didn't save my life, but the life of someone else: Last year (I can't remember if it was spring or fall) I was driving in the Kalamazoo area and I noticed a truck (cab only, no trailer) that was half on the grass (almost on the sidewalk) and the rear of the vehicle still on the road blocking a lane of traffic. I passed it off as the driver probably used their phone and crashed and popped a tire, but as I drove by I noticed the drover slumped against the door almost like he was sleeping. I instantly got a bad feeling and called 911. I told the dispatcher I wasn't sure what his condition was but I was kinda worried. I then called a coworker I passed going the way I was about 6 minutes later and warned him about the truck and mentioned that the driver looked like they suffered a heart attack. As he drove up, he described to me that 4 cops and an ambulance/fire rescue vehicle was there and they had broken the window out to pull out a man of the high 400 pound mark and were performing CPR on him as he was being loaded up on the gurney. I told that same coworker I had called 911 and was surprised they made it there that fast and he went off praising my actions telling me about how I probably saved this man's life and he (the coworker) went on to tell other coworkers about what I had done and I started to get texts from them saying I did a good job and it was good I was looking out and such. To me, I actually feel like I let that man down because I didn't stop to check on him so I don't know if he made it or not. I'm not telling the story to get praise for what I did or make myself feel better, but I told it here as an example for us all; having that awareness could potentially save a life someday. Be vigilant, everyone. And stay safe!
Situational awareness is so critical. Whether when you are driving, walking to and from your car to a store, at home, in the woods - everywhere. I was taught this at a young age and it has stayed with me. I have tried to pass it along to my daughter as well. It should be something we intuitively know but with so many distractions around us all the time, I see less of it and it is worrisome. Thanks for the excellent content - as always.
Situational awareness helped me to seek my friends when an unstable man with a loaded rifle was aiming it at several of my friends. This was before I went into the Navy and before my Naval Expeditionary Combat Training. The man was not listening to them and was clearly paranoid that they were going to hurt him or his truck when they were just sitting outside in the parking lot. I already could tell that my friends didn’t know what to do. I calmly addressed the man, distracting him with a calm demeanor, showing that I was no threat. I said, you know what, sir, I don’t think I’ve ever been properly introduced to you. What’s your name? He replied. I said who I was. Without a thought in the world, at 17, I walked with an average pace, keeping myself as calm as possible, and keeping myself in eye contact with him, towards him. I reached out trying to let go of any fear possible, seeing that maybe this could pass without incident if he didn’t feel fear from me. I offered my hand, to shake. He without hesitation, probably being Southern manners, reached one of his hands to meet mine. Now he didn’t have both hands on the gun and having been taught about guns from my father, I knew that the likelihood of him shooting anyone, much less me, now that his hand was occupied with mine, I just continued to hold that hand. I made small talk with the man until we heard the cops tell everyone to get down, and then I released his hand, backed up, and got down. The situation was now under professional care. It took about 5 officers all tasing the man to get him to relent. He was a very big man but I had spent my childhood years learning how to deal with a physically abusive father and protecting people from him. No one got hurt. Fast forward and years after my military service, it’s still an important part of my life to observe and serve others especially when I see that my experience can be of benefit to those less skilled/experienced. It’s still something that needs to be honed and deliberately chosen. I’m physically disabled as a result of my service and refuse to let that be a reason to not serve others except in a situation in which self righteous pride would make me a liability. And that is something we must all also consider. If our “help” would do more damage to others and make the amount of force necessary to handle a potentially non-lethal situation, more than that. Situational awareness, self awareness, and above all- egoless dedication to service unadulterated by our own desire to be simple “badasses.” That is our responsibility. It takes more than a military and more than law enforcement to keep us all safe. It’s the actions and inactions of average civilians that can make the difference before deadly force is necessary.
As a 68 yr old woman, I take situational awareness seriously. It's not just for men in their 30s. My husband told me when we were in NYC in the 70s and 80s (just to visit), never stand still and gawk at the sky scrapers. Never say things like "oh wow, I can't believe these buildings". You will be marked as a tourist making you easy prey. I do check out exit signs, odd acting people and definitely go the other way. I can't wait for more of your videos. I do try to practice what you preach.
I just avoid those cities, in general. Pop cap over 300k is generally a hell hole. 150k and under with lots of middle and middle upper class suburbanites is generally a better place to be in.
Down in Overtown Miami blacks used to target lost tourists all the time back in the day before GPS and smart devices.... how did they know who to hit? Out of state plates on rental vehicles and road maps on the dash. The hood was very close to MIA airport and easily entered with a few wrong turns, they stop at a gas station to get their bearings and... Even today IF you end up in those areas.. LOOK LIKE YOU BELONG and have sense of direction and purpose- look like you are looking for drugs. It usually does not bode well for the hood rats doing this crap when the higher level dealers find out that white people are scared to come in the hood to buy drugs.
This is something that I do… when in the public eye I never have my phone out. It’s in my pocket. Always scanning people, areas, and exit points. I don’t look at my phone until I’m in my truck or at my house. Don’t get distracted, always stay focused.
SA kept me from being robbed September of last year. Always thankful for these reminders from the trained and accomplished guys that share their wisdom with us.
Great motivation sir. I'm down 108lbs so far. Working on getting back in shape after 10 years of being an at-home special needs dad!! My son has progressed enough that the therapies aren't as often and I'm finally getting back into the normal routine of life...
@@MazzBCD my son is the real tough one of this family. I am constantly in amazement at how he handles most situations. Whenever I feel like giving up or just not trying that extra little bit I think of everything he has had to go through in his short 10 years of life.. I think I'm learning far more from him than he's learning from me at times! Thanks for the kind words!
Practice observation. Like all things it’s the practice of identifying and understanding what you’ve observed that makes it a behavioral strength. Memorize license plates and the vehicle make and models as you drive. Observe people and what they are wearing. Otherwise your mind wanders and you become weak in this behavior. It’s your mind. Make it strong!!
Thank you for keeping me in check, Sir. as a 50 year old Conservative living in Boston, i am frequently met with (bombarded) individuals who somehow imagine I want to hear their opinion. I appreciate Mike's calm tone and demeanor. His retellings of difficult situations puts everything in perception.
Situational environment is so critical in every environment you can’t stress it enough. As an airline pilot, it is a huge thing. It really helped me in my every day life. Nowadays I feel like so many people are stuck with their face in their phones. They have no idea what’s going on around them.
I beg to differ towards the latter part of your comment. Anxiety actually exponentially helps with situational awareness- I’ve noticed lax, careless folks are the most at risk of being a victim of violence.
I Read that people that have anxiety are actually more aware and cautious of their surroundings, they are able to perceive possible threats and danger better than someone who's not worried about anything at all
It’s so crazy to see how many people are on their phones and no concept of situational awareness. The phone has become all consuming. Put them down people and pay attention. Having been a former LEO my head was on a swivel. It takes a lot concentration and effort but so worth it. Great content Mike and thank you.
My family thinks I’m crazy for this same thing but I will always do it. As a female , it’s extremely important to be aware of those around you and places you are walking ! Never walk towards say, a dumpster in an alley without being extremely aware. Be aware of cars staying right with you on the interstate. Change your speed several times to see if you are being watched or followed. Always watch when you leave a store. Look all around and stay as far back from the underneath of your car as you are getting it unlocked. At least until you can look to make sure there isn’t someone under it. Never park near a panel van or truck etc. I took karate for several years and I can defend myself pretty well now and it made me very observant and for that alone, I’m thankful. Thanks for this segment Mike. It needs to be drilled into people until they just do it by instinct.
People are so desensitized to violence and murder that when it happens in front of them live and in person they don't know how to react. I have personally witnessed in my professional career dozens of different occasions where people were murdered in front of multiple bystanders and no one runs away no one reacts appropriately to get out of the situation they stand around and gawk. The amount of times I've seen people who were killed by someone screaming I'm going to kill you with a weapon in their hand is astonishing. And then when the person starts to kill them they're like Oh my God you're killing me. Desensitized to reality
Exactly, I’m about to share this with my family and friends that weren’t in the military. The military engrained this in me and it’s subconscious, and I’m absolutely grateful for it.
A crazy thing is that people think when youre trying to practice awareness and preparedness they think you're being paranoid. Anything can happen at anytime. I remember having a perfectly fine day walking home from school and suddenly getting robbed, but I also wasnt being aware or moving smart. You never think that you need to be prepared until the day comes when you should of been.
I needed this ngl. I absolutely agree on making yourself realize the problem, and scan as you said, not the people, but the environment for the anomaly. I heard something a few nights ago fall. I immediately thought, "okay, did I lock the doors, where are the cats?" And I get up to investigate. It was one of my cats but still it could always be something. Call me paranoid but I've always had my head on a swivel.
I’ve been trying to get my wife to understand paying attention, at least out in public. It’s not an OCD preoccupation for me but I rarely walk through a store and not pay attention to who is carrying or who is looking for an opportunity to shoplift. Like you said I’m looking for the spike, the thing that looks out of place. Maybe the driver who is preoccupied with their phone and not paying attention. I haven’t been in a life or death situation but that is no excuse to not be ready for one. I don’t like surprises! Thank you for more great tips.
A lot of this is learned automatically from where you grew up, I've never been trained in anything but I'd never walk around a city with my nose in the phone and I'd never leave the house in footwear I couldn't fight in
Living in Sydney Australia, 2 Horrific stabbing events happened just days apart. I tell people, more than ever, "Situational Awareness" is the Sixth sense you MUST HAVE RIGHT NOW
Nice! I have been preaching situational awareness to my coworkers for a couple of years now. Glad to see a comprehensive video on this. I would like to add, for your audience, that one can practice using situational awareness at anytime and utilize that in many mundane ways. Especially in high traffic areas like restaurants, convenience stores and such. But even at home. To investigate anomalies, you need only start by focused observation. Determine the exact source of the anomaly. You have to open yourself to hear, see and smell your environment. Note a disruption in sounds, the birds, crickets, flow of traffic, laughing, crying, the quieting of conversation. Take notes of the scents of your environment. Smoke, is it wood or something else. Dampness, also perfumes, cigarettes. Note easy points of access or exits. A deer trail into an open meadow, doors and doorways. Where can threats come from and where you can escape. Body language is a powerful tool one can use to not only identify threats but de-escalate or mitigate potential threats. Learn it, use it. Situational awareness is important in any customer service job, construction, mining and oil field work as well as general personal safety. And of course parenting. I would like to see a video on critical thinking. Thanks.
I am a cart guy at my local grocery store. I teach every person doing carts about this. What doesn’t belong. Who is acting different than everyone else. Is there someone in their car can we identify if they are sleeping or incapacitated? Scan the ground constantly broken glass, actually found an epi pen that had been ran over thankfully we have a pharmacy in store with sharps container. Also why I am crazy about having multiple types of gloves on me.
You should have your head on a swivel. Criminals pick out targets. Targets are people who are not paying attention. Soft targets, restaurants, other eating establishments, brick and mortar stores, town centers. Protect your 6. Map out your surroundings. Pay attention to everything. Great video Mike. Great information
Because of SA I had to deal with a problem at 1:30am out side my house . It turned out good but I also learned some valuable lessons. First always keep fresh batteries in your flashlight. Second chamber a round before going to investigate……i did not do that before going outside . So I guess I need to tune up my processes
When walking to or from your car, always look around for threats. Potential troublemakers will often leave you alone simply because they see that you're alert & harder to sneak up on.
My nine grade science teacher talked about situational awareness for the whole first day of class, and he does that every year to every nine grade class.
I've been trying to teach my youngest to ramp up his situational awareness and to spot the out of place, the details, the odd behaviours, and how to read people like i have to at work. just trying to get him to understand that this is a necessary life skill to have BEFORE it's needed has taken a bit but after a few recent things this year - mostly incidents at his school - he's getting the message.
Love this. It’s related to our societal problem of being reluctant to act when we need to. So many instances if this in big and subtle ways. We need a change.
Hello from south central BC, thanks for an excellent take on such an important topic. A couple of winters back there was a news story out of Toronto where they were appealing to pedestrians to please pay attention walking into traffic after something like the 17th one walked in front of a vehicle that month. Most of them had hoods up on their hoodie - understandable in a Canadian winter, but a large number were also either on their phone or listening to music. Situational awareness is huge anywhere, even walking in a city apparently. Stay well.
Amen my brother, you can avoid much before the problem begins by being situationally aware of your immediate surroundings. Vector away from the conflict before it begins is always a good strategy. If not, you will already have the advantage of timing.
This happened to me years ago... I had an injured dog in my arms, blood all over me, and I mean all over me. Went to a friends house nearby. He comes walking out, looking me in the eyes, big smile on his face. Sticks his hand out to pet the dog. He gets within ten inches of petting the dog. And his eyes went wide and he completely panicked. Got him calmed down and found out where the nearest vet was. Got the dog stitched up, she was banged up pretty bad but okay in the long run. Now you and I and a bunch of other people would have spotted that situation, maybe a hundred yards away. 'That guy is carrying a fairly big dog, he's walking weird... The dog is not moving around...' And so on. Details increasing as range decreases. And by the time I got to you, you would have already started preparing to treat the dog prior to transport. And if I was lucky, you would toss me a clean shirt. That becomes not second nature but, deep down, a kind of primal thing.
The best way to combat the negativity in our communities in the US I think is a community being taught to uplift one another as a whole can deter people from making bad decisions that hurt the community and instead make them see the value in themselves to contribute to the community by making something of themselves where as a community we are proud of even our cleaning lady’s and unfortunately the breakdown of those values starts in the home and we end up with tragic events where our peace keepers have to step in.
I’m on old head LEO. I preach when you step out of your station, vehicle, and building, you need to scan 360 degrees. And when you step back into/approach the aforementioned locations, do the same. Complacency will get you unexpectedly killed.
I always tell people that even if they don't carry a gun daily they should take a high-end defensive handgun course because of the situational awareness good instructors will teach you.
I lectured my late wife about this constantly; she would always preoccupy herself getting into and out of her car 🙄🤦♂️...sometimes I'd improvise a simulated test and sneak up on her and then say 'gotcha' you're compromised. There's NO substitute for situational awareness every day, don't make yourself a tempting tatget...
I literally just had Ihop today for an early birthday lunch, and I've been practicing situational awareness. We sat at a table for five I had the restroom behind me, and the entrance too my right. I kept my eye on the front door and listening around me. I was also carrying of course. Always be prepared.
When I was a kid in the early 80s there was a shooting at a McDonald's I don't remember where but several people were killed from that day on I always sit in the back of the restaurant and check everyone when I am in public
Great video Mike. It’s a huge subject and you make some great points in this short clip. It’s a trained skill even though we have a basic radar (Gut instinct). Looking and seeing are two separate things which you cover here, seeing, understanding and knowing what to look for whilst looking is essential. I teach how to do this through different distances. Scanning the far and middle ground and observing the close ground and the difference between scanning and observing. Like I said and as you are aware it’s a huge subject. Stay Dangerous Rock
A while back, I sent out texts to my nieces and nephews regarding this same subject. Essentially (from my perspective) attempting to communicate the idea that a big part is how we hold ourselves in public, and consciously projecting the 'image' that is optimal for us in any given moment.
Something I was taught as a kid, everytime I am in public and in stores, malls, etc I look at and analyze everything and everyone. Small details make a difference. Couple weeks ago i was shopping for a mother days card and while reading the cards to see which one I'd pick this guy kept pacing back n fourth to the side of me and up and down the isle and I was side eye looking at him seeing what he was doing while not breaking my composure, I was kinda taken aback but thats a example of SA.
I've always paid attention to who's around me and what they are doing how they're looking around. Spent to much time in cities dealing with aggressive beggers. I've also trained she who thinks she must be obeyed to always sit so that when I sit so I can see and address a threat when in a restaurant. Took me a long time to break my daughter of jogging with headphones on. We live in a rural area but not where she's alone. Cartel have several houses out here and we're at the cross roads of two highways one goes straight to the border and the other heads to extremely rural areas just west of us. She felt too safe but after she moved to del Rio that changed and she's gotten out of there and now south east coast with two little ones and she's taken on that awareness mindset. I've now got my son in law carrying to protect the family but he's still not situational aware enough yet for me but he's learning and will learn a lot more on our up coming family vacation as I teach him.
Thanks Mike. I live in L.A. (contemplating leaving California) and you and others, Like Jocko, have been instrumental in my development of situational awareness the last couple of years. AND......it's actually served me well, and perhaps, saved my bacon. Unfortuantely, (a testament to the state of crime in L.A.) I could probably write my own book on how just being aware has saved my ass in L.A. since covid. Too many situations I exfilled from to list here.
Would love to have a video to teach kids about situational awareness, my wife and I are trying to figure out ways we will teach our children in the future, love these videos Mike!
@@jamisonbernhardt3310 Not through the VA. They don't care if you partake but they can't prescribe. Definitely can through a civ Dr. It unfortunately amplifies my issues.
5/25 was drilled into us when is in the marines. When I we were hard hit on asr long island I scanned my 5/25 without even thinking. It wasn't till later that I realized I had actually done it. You have to practice these skills so you just do them when shit actually happens. I will be looking up your book.
I was personally in a situation like this today. I wanted to act immediately but i held myself back because i was under qualified to take care of this person myself and also partially in shock at the sheer level of incompetence of the people tasked with dealing with the situation. Paramedics should have been called the minute this person couldnt/wouldnt respond to direct questions. I knew it too. It took valuable minutes for the people to make the decision to call 911 and because i was in a complacent mindset, i didnt call right when i encountered the situation and knew paramedics were going to be the end result. Totally screwed me up and instead of acting for myself i stood there and waited for someone else to do it. I hope the person is ok.
Yesterday, I had to practise this in Toronto, Canada. We were at a restaurant and a man was mumbling out loud "I'm gonna stab somebody"... I witnessed this man get up and verbally convince a woman to buy him a burger. I left the restaurant with my family and purchased from another restaurant.
I missed your work. Conscious awareness. A good one to read for further consciousness and conscious awareness is The Kybalyon. Its a REAL Eye 👁 opener. Thank you and I hope you have a beautiful weekend. 😊
Well this was an interesting debate in our house, little context first. So my wife was bored with her RUclips side and decided to see what I have on my 'watch later' side and chose this video to watch. Now granted, situational awareness is a must, especially the current climate of society and I am always reminding my wife of her need to be more then she currently is. While watching your video my wife kept complaining that the video seemed like it was only geared to either military/former military personnel due to the jargon that you used. I had to keep explaining that was your background and translated it into practical situations and what I thought your meaning was behind it. She continued that if you are wanting civilians to understand and relate to use terms or examples that they can relate to. In addition to her, our oldest son decided to jump in and concur with her, stating that he would not run into a building to save a stranger. I then pointed out that was what you were referring to, that we as people need to set aside our selfishness and be good Samaritans. I gave him an example of 'what if you heard a child, what if you hear a little boy screaming for help, would you ignore it'? He has a son and that was why I gave that example. His tune changed after that. If anything this video created a conversation of awareness that lasted about 45 minutes. One thing I will disagree with is, I do not think society on a whole is lazy, I believe the media portrays them (the small groups that are) as being so, I believe that fear is a stronger reason for people not to do what is naturally right. Thank you for the video and keep them coming.
Use all your senses when in public . Sometimes you will FEEL a bad vibe rather than see it .
Staying off your phone in public is a great way to increase awareness. And keeping hands out of pockets improves readiness.
And no earphones
@@ItsOnlyRyanat one time in my life I would purposely wear head phones to give off the appearance I was distracted and couldn’t hear anything around me.
Mr. Glover I am a truck driver not only out of profession, but as of passion. I drive 6 days a week in the Detroit Metro area and I have to say that not only are you correct about SA, but it's something I know I practice daily yet have not mastered. Being aware has saved my life at intersections where another rig would run their red light or when people cut in front of me and slam on the brakes because the gas station or McDonalds is right there and they don't wanna wait 4 extra seconds behind me. Later in your video, when you mentioned the red car, it immediately snapped my attention to a red Prius parked in a driveway. Now I'd like to share a short story with you and the rest of this community about how situational awareness didn't save my life, but the life of someone else:
Last year (I can't remember if it was spring or fall) I was driving in the Kalamazoo area and I noticed a truck (cab only, no trailer) that was half on the grass (almost on the sidewalk) and the rear of the vehicle still on the road blocking a lane of traffic. I passed it off as the driver probably used their phone and crashed and popped a tire, but as I drove by I noticed the drover slumped against the door almost like he was sleeping. I instantly got a bad feeling and called 911. I told the dispatcher I wasn't sure what his condition was but I was kinda worried. I then called a coworker I passed going the way I was about 6 minutes later and warned him about the truck and mentioned that the driver looked like they suffered a heart attack. As he drove up, he described to me that 4 cops and an ambulance/fire rescue vehicle was there and they had broken the window out to pull out a man of the high 400 pound mark and were performing CPR on him as he was being loaded up on the gurney. I told that same coworker I had called 911 and was surprised they made it there that fast and he went off praising my actions telling me about how I probably saved this man's life and he (the coworker) went on to tell other coworkers about what I had done and I started to get texts from them saying I did a good job and it was good I was looking out and such. To me, I actually feel like I let that man down because I didn't stop to check on him so I don't know if he made it or not.
I'm not telling the story to get praise for what I did or make myself feel better, but I told it here as an example for us all; having that awareness could potentially save a life someday. Be vigilant, everyone. And stay safe!
Situational awareness is so critical. Whether when you are driving, walking to and from your car to a store, at home, in the woods - everywhere. I was taught this at a young age and it has stayed with me. I have tried to pass it along to my daughter as well. It should be something we intuitively know but with so many distractions around us all the time, I see less of it and it is worrisome. Thanks for the excellent content - as always.
Green-home
Yellow-not at home
Orange- shit feels fucked
Red- shit is fucked
Black- FUCK.
Situational awareness helped me to seek my friends when an unstable man with a loaded rifle was aiming it at several of my friends. This was before I went into the Navy and before my Naval Expeditionary Combat Training. The man was not listening to them and was clearly paranoid that they were going to hurt him or his truck when they were just sitting outside in the parking lot. I already could tell that my friends didn’t know what to do. I calmly addressed the man, distracting him with a calm demeanor, showing that I was no threat. I said, you know what, sir, I don’t think I’ve ever been properly introduced to you. What’s your name? He replied. I said who I was. Without a thought in the world, at 17, I walked with an average pace, keeping myself as calm as possible, and keeping myself in eye contact with him, towards him. I reached out trying to let go of any fear possible, seeing that maybe this could pass without incident if he didn’t feel fear from me. I offered my hand, to shake. He without hesitation, probably being Southern manners, reached one of his hands to meet mine. Now he didn’t have both hands on the gun and having been taught about guns from my father, I knew that the likelihood of him shooting anyone, much less me, now that his hand was occupied with mine, I just continued to hold that hand. I made small talk with the man until we heard the cops tell everyone to get down, and then I released his hand, backed up, and got down. The situation was now under professional care. It took about 5 officers all tasing the man to get him to relent. He was a very big man but I had spent my childhood years learning how to deal with a physically abusive father and protecting people from him. No one got hurt. Fast forward and years after my military service, it’s still an important part of my life to observe and serve others especially when I see that my experience can be of benefit to those less skilled/experienced. It’s still something that needs to be honed and deliberately chosen. I’m physically disabled as a result of my service and refuse to let that be a reason to not serve others except in a situation in which self righteous pride would make me a liability. And that is something we must all also consider. If our “help” would do more damage to others and make the amount of force necessary to handle a potentially non-lethal situation, more than that. Situational awareness, self awareness, and above all- egoless dedication to service unadulterated by our own desire to be simple “badasses.” That is our responsibility. It takes more than a military and more than law enforcement to keep us all safe. It’s the actions and inactions of average civilians that can make the difference before deadly force is necessary.
As a 68 yr old woman, I take situational awareness seriously. It's not just for men in their 30s. My husband told me when we were in NYC in the 70s and 80s (just to visit), never stand still and gawk at the sky scrapers. Never say things like "oh wow, I can't believe these buildings". You will be marked as a tourist making you easy prey. I do check out exit signs, odd acting people and definitely go the other way. I can't wait for more of your videos. I do try to practice what you preach.
I just avoid those cities, in general. Pop cap over 300k is generally a hell hole. 150k and under with lots of middle and middle upper class suburbanites is generally a better place to be in.
Down in Overtown Miami blacks used to target lost tourists all the time back in the day before GPS and smart devices.... how did they know who to hit?
Out of state plates on rental vehicles and road maps on the dash. The hood was very close to MIA airport and easily entered with a few wrong turns, they stop at a gas station to get their bearings and...
Even today IF you end up in those areas.. LOOK LIKE YOU BELONG and have sense of direction and purpose- look like you are looking for drugs. It usually does not bode well for the hood rats doing this crap when the higher level dealers find out that white people are scared to come in the hood to buy drugs.
@@tyronetrump1612 It's interesting that the simple things can give us away. Thankyou for your insight.
Situational and self awareness are key in todays world more than ever
This is something that I do… when in the public eye I never have my phone out. It’s in my pocket. Always scanning people, areas, and exit points. I don’t look at my phone until I’m in my truck or at my house. Don’t get distracted, always stay focused.
SA kept me from being robbed September of last year. Always thankful for these reminders from the trained and accomplished guys that share their wisdom with us.
@@ethanbarnes3973 satanic abuse
Great motivation sir. I'm down 108lbs so far. Working on getting back in shape after 10 years of being an at-home special needs dad!! My son has progressed enough that the therapies aren't as often and I'm finally getting back into the normal routine of life...
Man, you are tough. Blessings to your and your family. Good luck with the journey!
Yet another great podcast. Thank you sir.
@@MazzBCD my son is the real tough one of this family. I am constantly in amazement at how he handles most situations. Whenever I feel like giving up or just not trying that extra little bit I think of everything he has had to go through in his short 10 years of life.. I think I'm learning far more from him than he's learning from me at times! Thanks for the kind words!
Practice observation. Like all things it’s the practice of identifying and understanding what you’ve observed that makes it a behavioral strength.
Memorize license plates and the vehicle make and models as you drive. Observe people and what they are wearing. Otherwise your mind wanders and you become weak in this behavior. It’s your mind. Make it strong!!
Thank you for keeping me in check, Sir.
as a 50 year old Conservative living in Boston, i am frequently met with (bombarded) individuals who somehow imagine I want to hear their opinion. I appreciate Mike's calm tone and demeanor.
His retellings of difficult situations puts everything in perception.
Situational environment is so critical in every environment you can’t stress it enough. As an airline pilot, it is a huge thing. It really helped me in my every day life. Nowadays I feel like so many people are stuck with their face in their phones. They have no idea what’s going on around them.
Having situational awareness is crucial to survival in any arena of life. Being aware without staying in a state of PTSD or anxiety is tough.
I beg to differ towards the latter part of your comment. Anxiety actually exponentially helps with situational awareness- I’ve noticed lax, careless folks are the most at risk of being a victim of violence.
I Read that people that have anxiety are actually more aware and cautious of their surroundings, they are able to perceive possible threats and danger better than someone who's not worried about anything at all
It’s so crazy to see how many people are on their phones and no concept of situational awareness. The phone has become all consuming. Put them down people and pay attention. Having been a former LEO my head was on a swivel. It takes a lot concentration and effort but so worth it. Great content Mike and thank you.
My family thinks I’m crazy for this same thing but I will always do it. As a female , it’s extremely important to be aware of those around you and places you are walking ! Never walk towards say, a dumpster in an alley without being extremely aware. Be aware of cars staying right with you on the interstate. Change your speed several times to see if you are being watched or followed. Always watch when you leave a store. Look all around and stay as far back from the underneath of your car as you are getting it unlocked. At least until you can look to make sure there isn’t someone under it. Never park near a panel van or truck etc. I took karate for several years and I can defend myself pretty well now and it made me very observant and for that alone, I’m thankful.
Thanks for this segment Mike. It needs to be drilled into people until they just do it by instinct.
Thank you for everything you do, sir.
fr
Now kiss
YES! Being aware is #1!
People are so desensitized to violence and murder that when it happens in front of them live and in person they don't know how to react. I have personally witnessed in my professional career dozens of different occasions where people were murdered in front of multiple bystanders and no one runs away no one reacts appropriately to get out of the situation they stand around and gawk. The amount of times I've seen people who were killed by someone screaming I'm going to kill you with a weapon in their hand is astonishing. And then when the person starts to kill them they're like Oh my God you're killing me.
Desensitized to reality
This is great, I shared this for my family because I have never been able to describe to them why I act in certain ways that I do. Constantly scanning
Exactly, I’m about to share this with my family and friends that weren’t in the military. The military engrained this in me and it’s subconscious, and I’m absolutely grateful for it.
A crazy thing is that people think when youre trying to practice awareness and preparedness they think you're being paranoid. Anything can happen at anytime. I remember having a perfectly fine day walking home from school and suddenly getting robbed, but I also wasnt being aware or moving smart. You never think that you need to be prepared until the day comes when you should of been.
I needed this ngl. I absolutely agree on making yourself realize the problem, and scan as you said, not the people, but the environment for the anomaly. I heard something a few nights ago fall. I immediately thought, "okay, did I lock the doors, where are the cats?" And I get up to investigate. It was one of my cats but still it could always be something. Call me paranoid but I've always had my head on a swivel.
I’ve been trying to get my wife to understand paying attention, at least out in public. It’s not an OCD preoccupation for me but I rarely walk through a store and not pay attention to who is carrying or who is looking for an opportunity to shoplift. Like you said I’m looking for the spike, the thing that looks out of place. Maybe the driver who is preoccupied with their phone and not paying attention. I haven’t been in a life or death situation but that is no excuse to not be ready for one. I don’t like surprises! Thank you for more great tips.
A lot of this is learned automatically from where you grew up, I've never been trained in anything but I'd never walk around a city with my nose in the phone and I'd never leave the house in footwear I couldn't fight in
Damn. You are foreal with the footwear comment
@@jamisonbernhardt3310 guys going on a night out with flip flops on....mental
@@leedobson I bet their bank accounts look ok? No?
Living in Sydney Australia, 2 Horrific stabbing events happened just days apart. I tell people, more than ever, "Situational Awareness" is the Sixth sense you MUST HAVE RIGHT NOW
Nice! I have been preaching situational awareness to my coworkers for a couple of years now. Glad to see a comprehensive video on this.
I would like to add, for your audience, that one can practice using situational awareness at anytime and utilize that in many mundane ways. Especially in high traffic areas like restaurants, convenience stores and such. But even at home.
To investigate anomalies, you need only start by focused observation. Determine the exact source of the anomaly. You have to open yourself to hear, see and smell your environment.
Note a disruption in sounds, the birds, crickets, flow of traffic, laughing, crying, the quieting of conversation.
Take notes of the scents of your environment. Smoke, is it wood or something else. Dampness, also perfumes, cigarettes.
Note easy points of access or exits.
A deer trail into an open meadow, doors and doorways. Where can threats come from and where you can escape.
Body language is a powerful tool one can use to not only identify threats but de-escalate or mitigate potential threats. Learn it, use it.
Situational awareness is important in any customer service job, construction, mining and oil field work as well as general personal safety. And of course parenting.
I would like to see a video on critical thinking. Thanks.
I am a cart guy at my local grocery store. I teach every person doing carts about this. What doesn’t belong. Who is acting different than everyone else. Is there someone in their car can we identify if they are sleeping or incapacitated? Scan the ground constantly broken glass, actually found an epi pen that had been ran over thankfully we have a pharmacy in store with sharps container. Also why I am crazy about having multiple types of gloves on me.
You should have your head on a swivel. Criminals pick out targets. Targets are people who are not paying attention.
Soft targets, restaurants, other eating establishments, brick and mortar stores, town centers. Protect your 6. Map out your surroundings.
Pay attention to everything.
Great video Mike. Great information
Good video Mike can’t be brought to the forefront enough. It is the foundation of living safely and protecting your family.
Because of SA I had to deal with a problem at 1:30am out side my house . It turned out good but I also learned some valuable lessons.
First always keep fresh batteries in your flashlight. Second chamber a round before going to investigate……i did not do that before going outside .
So I guess I need to tune up my processes
When walking to or from your car, always look around for threats. Potential troublemakers will often leave you alone simply because they see that you're alert & harder to sneak up on.
My nine grade science teacher talked about situational awareness for the whole first day of class, and he does that every year to every nine grade class.
Don't be a victim, isn't just a statement, but a way of life.
💯
Thanks Mike. I always try to get people to adopt this mindset.
I've been trying to teach my youngest to ramp up his situational awareness and to spot the out of place, the details, the odd behaviours, and how to read people like i have to at work. just trying to get him to understand that this is a necessary life skill to have BEFORE it's needed has taken a bit but after a few recent things this year - mostly incidents at his school - he's getting the message.
Love this. It’s related to our societal problem of being reluctant to act when we need to. So many instances if this in big and subtle ways. We need a change.
store parking lot and gas station are the two most critical areas to have situational awareness.
Hello from south central BC, thanks for an excellent take on such an important topic. A couple of winters back there was a news story out of Toronto where they were appealing to pedestrians to please pay attention walking into traffic after something like the 17th one walked in front of a vehicle that month. Most of them had hoods up on their hoodie - understandable in a Canadian winter, but a large number were also either on their phone or listening to music. Situational awareness is huge anywhere, even walking in a city apparently. Stay well.
I drive for a living and have people walk out in front of me at least twice a week head down not paying attention it is a big problem everywhere
Love your channel and what you're doing Mike. Patriots and Merica loves ya dude.
Observation buys you time and time buys you options - John Correa ASP
5 and 25s and 360 and 720s (for both rural suberbs and urban AO).
Great Talk Mr Mike … Respect Appreciate the Lecture… As Always.Stay Ready
Amen my brother, you can avoid much before the problem begins by being situationally aware of your immediate surroundings. Vector away from the conflict before it begins is always a good strategy. If not, you will already have the advantage of timing.
Awesome Knowledge you share. I appreciate you and pray for you. Thank you.
This happened to me years ago... I had an injured dog in my arms, blood all over me, and I mean all over me. Went to a friends house nearby. He comes walking out, looking me in the eyes, big smile on his face. Sticks his hand out to pet the dog. He gets within ten inches of petting the dog. And his eyes went wide and he completely panicked. Got him calmed down and found out where the nearest vet was. Got the dog stitched up, she was banged up pretty bad but okay in the long run. Now you and I and a bunch of other people would have spotted that situation, maybe a hundred yards away. 'That guy is carrying a fairly big dog, he's walking weird... The dog is not moving around...' And so on. Details increasing as range decreases. And by the time I got to you, you would have already started preparing to treat the dog prior to transport. And if I was lucky, you would toss me a clean shirt. That becomes not second nature but, deep down, a kind of primal thing.
The best way to combat the negativity in our communities in the US I think is a community being taught to uplift one another as a whole can deter people from making bad decisions that hurt the community and instead make them see the value in themselves to contribute to the community by making something of themselves where as a community we are proud of even our cleaning lady’s and unfortunately the breakdown of those values starts in the home and we end up with tragic events where our peace keepers have to step in.
I can’t tell you how much these videos are appreciated.
Having been a Policeman years ago Situational Awareness is so vital to all . Never more so than now. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺
Thanks for this mate! Love this, getting me readying for whats coming!
I’m on old head LEO. I preach when you step out of your station, vehicle, and building, you need to scan 360 degrees. And when you step back into/approach the aforementioned locations, do the same. Complacency will get you unexpectedly killed.
GOOD STUFF. Trying to instill this in my church safety team. Thanks
I remember after getting hit, I had to remind a new gunner to do his 5s and 25s. Some people get rattled and need that reminder.
Great talk. I appreciate you.
I always tell people that even if they don't carry a gun daily they should take a high-end defensive handgun course because of the situational awareness good instructors will teach you.
Great video and information as always brother. Stay vigilant...🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸
Mike, as always, i'm constantly listening to your content. I try to preach the situational awareness to my kids and other family members. Thank you!
Thank you for all of the great videos
I lectured my late wife about this constantly; she would always preoccupy herself getting into and out of her car 🙄🤦♂️...sometimes I'd improvise a simulated test and sneak up on her and then say 'gotcha' you're compromised.
There's NO substitute for situational awareness every day, don't make yourself a tempting tatget...
I literally just had Ihop today for an early birthday lunch, and I've been practicing situational awareness. We sat at a table for five I had the restroom behind me, and the entrance too my right. I kept my eye on the front door and listening around me. I was also carrying of course. Always be prepared.
We need to put your teachings into practice, Mike. Thank you very much !
Thank you Mike. That's valuable information. Thank you
Mike I love listening to you when I am drivin’. Thanks for all these videos. God bless.
When I was a kid in the early 80s there was a shooting at a McDonald's I don't remember where but several people were killed from that day on I always sit in the back of the restaurant and check everyone when I am in public
Always appreciate your imminently actionable advice
Lovin the work. Thanks brother
Great video Mike.
It’s a huge subject and you make some great points in this short clip.
It’s a trained skill even though we have a basic radar (Gut instinct).
Looking and seeing are two separate things which you cover here, seeing, understanding and knowing what to look for whilst looking is essential.
I teach how to do this through different distances.
Scanning the far and middle ground and observing the close ground and the difference between scanning and observing.
Like I said and as you are aware it’s a huge subject.
Stay Dangerous
Rock
A while back, I sent out texts to my nieces and nephews regarding this same subject. Essentially (from my perspective) attempting to communicate the idea that a big part is how we hold ourselves in public, and consciously projecting the 'image' that is optimal for us in any given moment.
Something I was taught as a kid, everytime I am in public and in stores, malls, etc I look at and analyze everything and everyone. Small details make a difference. Couple weeks ago i was shopping for a mother days card and while reading the cards to see which one I'd pick this guy kept pacing back n fourth to the side of me and up and down the isle and I was side eye looking at him seeing what he was doing while not breaking my composure, I was kinda taken aback but thats a example of SA.
I've always paid attention to who's around me and what they are doing how they're looking around. Spent to much time in cities dealing with aggressive beggers.
I've also trained she who thinks she must be obeyed to always sit so that when I sit so I can see and address a threat when in a restaurant.
Took me a long time to break my daughter of jogging with headphones on. We live in a rural area but not where she's alone. Cartel have several houses out here and we're at the cross roads of two highways one goes straight to the border and the other heads to extremely rural areas just west of us. She felt too safe but after she moved to del Rio that changed and she's gotten out of there and now south east coast with two little ones and she's taken on that awareness mindset. I've now got my son in law carrying to protect the family but he's still not situational aware enough yet for me but he's learning and will learn a lot more on our up coming family vacation as I teach him.
Thanks Mike. I live in L.A. (contemplating leaving California) and you and others, Like Jocko, have been instrumental in my development of situational awareness the last couple of years. AND......it's actually served me well, and perhaps, saved my bacon. Unfortuantely, (a testament to the state of crime in L.A.) I could probably write my own book on how just being aware has saved my ass in L.A. since covid. Too many situations I exfilled from to list here.
Great reminder, Mike!
Ever since I was a 13 foxtrot in the 82nd, I’ve had head on a swivel mentality wherever I go and whatever I’m doing. In 45 years I’ve never lost that.
Would love to have a video to teach kids about situational awareness, my wife and I are trying to figure out ways we will teach our children in the future, love these videos Mike!
The VA calls my situational awareness General Anxiety Disorder.
Can I get medical weed for that lol
@@jamisonbernhardt3310 Not through the VA. They don't care if you partake but they can't prescribe. Definitely can through a civ Dr. It unfortunately amplifies my issues.
Reasonable paranoia. hahaha
The VA has lazy sheep disorder.
The devil is the father of lies
5/25 was drilled into us when is in the marines. When I we were hard hit on asr long island I scanned my 5/25 without even thinking. It wasn't till later that I realized I had actually done it. You have to practice these skills so you just do them when shit actually happens. I will be looking up your book.
very good points and for fine tuning my situational awarness.
I just read about this in your book. I already did this to an extent, but this video and that chapter made me understand it even better.
Some many people have the faces in their phones on my commute 2 nyc...get a book and know your fellow riders so u pick out irregularities
I was personally in a situation like this today. I wanted to act immediately but i held myself back because i was under qualified to take care of this person myself and also partially in shock at the sheer level of incompetence of the people tasked with dealing with the situation. Paramedics should have been called the minute this person couldnt/wouldnt respond to direct questions. I knew it too. It took valuable minutes for the people to make the decision to call 911 and because i was in a complacent mindset, i didnt call right when i encountered the situation and knew paramedics were going to be the end result. Totally screwed me up and instead of acting for myself i stood there and waited for someone else to do it. I hope the person is ok.
A must have channel! Appreciate ya Mike
Thanks for the reminder to check my headspace and timing.
Looking forward to getting your new book today! Keep learning, stay aware.
Well said, thanks for the video!
Yesterday, I had to practise this in Toronto, Canada. We were at a restaurant and a man was mumbling out loud "I'm gonna stab somebody"... I witnessed this man get up and verbally convince a woman to buy him a burger. I left the restaurant with my family and purchased from another restaurant.
Great content. Appreciate the knowledge and thank you again for helping others through teaching them.
Read "Left of Bang".
It gives you the actual recipe for situational awareness.
Good Info
Very interesting Mike From France 🇫🇷
Everywhere i go i see the majority of people holding a smart phone with their eye's glued to it as much as possible .
Great input as always Mike! Thanks for your time. God bless you my friend!
Good stuff . First time viewing awesome information… Keep it going.
thankyou you talk a lot of sence it does make you
think ,and be aware of your surrounding,
I missed your work. Conscious awareness. A good one to read for further consciousness and conscious awareness is The Kybalyon. Its a REAL Eye 👁 opener. Thank you and I hope you have a beautiful weekend. 😊
Always great content Mike. Thanks so much
Thank you for what you do!! A friend from afar !
Once again thank you very much for your advice it is always greatly appreciated Mike.
Keep it comin big man. Appreciate ya.
Well this was an interesting debate in our house, little context first. So my wife was bored with her RUclips side and decided to see what I have on my 'watch later' side and chose this video to watch. Now granted, situational awareness is a must, especially the current climate of society and I am always reminding my wife of her need to be more then she currently is. While watching your video my wife kept complaining that the video seemed like it was only geared to either military/former military personnel due to the jargon that you used. I had to keep explaining that was your background and translated it into practical situations and what I thought your meaning was behind it. She continued that if you are wanting civilians to understand and relate to use terms or examples that they can relate to. In addition to her, our oldest son decided to jump in and concur with her, stating that he would not run into a building to save a stranger. I then pointed out that was what you were referring to, that we as people need to set aside our selfishness and be good Samaritans. I gave him an example of 'what if you heard a child, what if you hear a little boy screaming for help, would you ignore it'? He has a son and that was why I gave that example. His tune changed after that. If anything this video created a conversation of awareness that lasted about 45 minutes. One thing I will disagree with is, I do not think society on a whole is lazy, I believe the media portrays them (the small groups that are) as being so, I believe that fear is a stronger reason for people not to do what is naturally right. Thank you for the video and keep them coming.
Good video mike
Thank you Mike crucial information for safery❤