My dad, Special Forces Sgt. Stephen Gonzalez, taught me and my brother and sisters to be aware. He said "If you're aware, you dont need to be paranoid." I passed that to my kiddos and they use it and its helped them in a couple of situations. Great info.
"Then I saw little Tiffany. I'm thinking, y'know, eight-year-old white girl, middle of the ghetto, bunch of monsters, this time of night with quantum physics books? She about to start some shit, Zed. She's about eight years old, those books are WAY too advanced for her. If you ask me, I'd say she's up to something. And to be honest, I'd appreciate it if you eased up off my back about it."
I was into quantum physics after Nuclear Science at eight. Super 8.like so true (not) we just want Nuclear energy for electricity really and Air Conditioning. Ha😇😏
Situation awareness isn't always looking out for bad guys. It's paying attention to weather forecasts, inspecting your vehicle and reading, watching reliable news for changing social environments.
Personal Story: I am a female, at 5'6", 111 pounds, and a military veteran. I live in northern Virginia 10 minutes from D.C. I have a CC (conceal carry) permit and I do conceal carry a pistol. No one would suspect that I am armed. I do not look the part........... I keep the situational awareness hat on at all times (yellow level). One evening I had just gotten off duty, I am walking on the sidewalk about to walk onto the private concrete walkway leading to the door to get to my place, when a male subject quickly exits a vehicle approximately 80 yards or 240-245 feet away, or less than a standard city block away on the same sidewalk as I, the car motor still running, its park lights are on, and another man at the wheel........... There were no other persons in sight. I was alone. The car was too far away to see the license plate. The man is approaching fast as I am still on the sidewalk as I am trying to get to the walkway. We are walking toward each other. But my alarm bells go off. I am carrying one of my CC pistols in a holster on my hip. I stop walking and position myself to make this man aware that I am paying attention to him while I was also keeping my eye on the man still in the car. The man on the sidewalk keeps coming towards me. Now I have placed my weapon hand in "ready" to "draw" position. I do not see him carrying a weapon. But he is walking directly toward me. I wanted to avoid a fight for my life. But I am ready for any adverse sudden movement and or display of a weapon. I was hoping to achieve deterrence. I did not want to show fear and flight was not an option........... He is getting closer. So I place distance between us by stepping off the sidewalk over approximately 15 feet, and got into a position to draw from a safer distance. The man on foot has now walked pass my position. I am sure he now knows I am watching him but he stops walking. Why? His back is to me. The man in the car I now have my back to him. Then the man on the sidewalk turns around, looking directly at me, and suddenly he sees my hand hovering over the grip of my pistol ready to draw. An uncomfortable look comes over his face because I am no longer his target. He gets out of there quickly heading back in the direction he came from, back to the car. I did not have to draw my weapon........... My non-verbal body language spoke for itself, he got the message: One wrong move and I will draw my firearm on you. I thought things would get worse. I was in fear of an imminent attack. However, I remained very calm due to the fact it hit me that I might have to take this shot if he were to brandish a weapon or lurch at me. Taking a shot at another human being is serious business, whether in uniform or not, and not to be taken lightly. Because then comes the aftermath of a shooting incident. I was in civilian status at this time. And these men clearly did not suspect I was carrying a firearm...........
Way to go. Women above all should want minimal gun control. It always boggles my mind when I hear them speak against being armed. Women have forgotten that they enjoy peace and safety only to the extent that men allow it. Guns give them a better chance against the bad guys.
you're my hero. I always believe a strong female protagonist, like Kate Beckinsale or Catherine Zeta-Jones, in contrast to Captain Marvel and all the b.s. If you like my thoughts you can check my twitter.
The point of concealing is not letting anyone know you are carrying. Never put your hand on the grip if you don’t intend on drawing your concealed weapon. Work on your draw instead
Everyone seems to only be interested in their phones. They're asking to get mugged or run over by a car because they don't look at anything but their phone screen.
I’m situationally aware but I use my phone as a way to blend in I’m not actually on my phone I’m just holding it and quickly glancing in all directions and every once in a while look down at the black screen pretend to scroll then look back up 😂
Really well said. The military's explanation of Coopers colors was mistakenly focused on wanting to be at "Red" and fully alert at all times; which very quickly caused burnout. It wasn't until much later that a friend of mine described it far better by relating it to driving. "You don't want to be at white unless you are asleep; so probably not at the wheel. Yellow would be just doing the normal somewhat autopilot driving. This frees up your mental energy for looking at other cars and making sure all is well. You may see some people breaking and turning without blinkers, but not a big deal. Orange comes about when you've identified a drunk driver or some similar nonsense and have started to take action to keep yourself safe. And, of course, Red is when someone (like said drunk driver) is swerving at your car, running a red light, or actively being a threat to those around him/her. When it was explained like that, it was a lot easier to understand the need of relaxing white, cruising at yellow, being focused on orange, and defensively dodging at red.
I've used Cooper's Colors for years as a way to keep myself in check for level of awareness. It's kind of a joke, but when I explained this system to my wife I also told her I had one of my own categories and sadly I see it becoming more prevalent, I call it condition Clear; the totally oblivious ones walking around with their faces buried in their phones. As in seeing a pretty girl going to her car, face in phone, texting away, completely unaware of her surroundings or threats, I'd say to my wife, "she's in condition Clear".
Excellent lesson for real-world self defense. Former karate student here. The schools i attended totally ignored this stuff. Their agendas were geared toward sports, fitness, fun, and making money for the instructors. Almost a complete waste of time in my opinion. This lecture points to the real deal in my opinion. Survival is the thing.
this is funny because me being born and raised and still currently living in Memphis Tn (A not so safe place lol) this type of awareness is second nature. I almost find it funny that some people walk around oblivious because I can’t fathom not being situationally aware. This is a true testament to human nature and how the environment you grow up in shapes you as an individual.
This is one of the first and most important lessons I teach in my handgun self-defense classes, for, a 360º situational awareness can be a better tool than even a firearm in saving your life.
I have two take out restaurants in Johannesburg and EVERY time there's been an incident it's exactly who you thought it would be - profiling works I tell you! We've learned the hard way that there's no room for political correctness when you're trying to look after your own...
Great information about situational awareness. I think it would be a good idea to let people know how you can become a victim of crime due to severe lack of situational awareness. For example, people on smart phones, talking, texting, reading their tablets and they have no clue what is going on around them. I was on my motorcycle one time about to make a right turn, and some woman texting on her phone, stepped in front of me without even looking or being aware of my actions. People who get so caught up in what they are doing to the point that they will walk right into a bad situation until it is too late.
I'm currently 1/4th of the way through the book "The Gift of Fear" as a result of you and James. This saying keeps popping in my mind as I become more and more educated -"you don't know that you don't know....." Please keep up the great content and I'm glad your channel came across my RUclips recommended watch. Been subscribed for a few weeks and back watching most of the videos.
If I've learned anything from movies, the hottest ladies wearing the tightest clothes are the most likely to be assassins and spies. They need to be watched closely for danger.
There’s something to be said for intuition. There’s times I’m walking my dog around the park after dark and greeting the person walking past with a smile and other times I’m watching the 2 guys by the swings out of the corner of my eye.
I've been watching your videos for a long time. There was a active shooter in Jacksonville today. I'm coming back and sharing this whole series with all my friends. Everyone in today's world need to be thinking of these things. Thanks for all you do John.
"you can't spend all day...taking your gun apart and sharpening your knives. You gotta chill out" What if that's my idea of chilling out? Huh? You don't know me.
Ummm.. I call everyone idiots because they write the dumbest shit, so know if I could honor you with a medal, it would probably be silver just for the small hindrance of finding something more to do, plus you could chip all nice paint job. But yeah, that's comical but a fine answer, found especially in bodyguards, soldiers, and people who drink a lot, so I guess yeah, mostly soldiers. Cuban police actually drink during interrogations.
@@Heyoupally Not sure what military your thinking of but US Army has very little racism in it. Now I will admit having hateful feelings towards middle easterners that despise America because we choose not to believe in the same thing. But I have to hear there thoughts first. And zero tolerance for drugs or alcohol. Random drug testing at any time. And they did it alot. In 3 years I was probably tested 13 times.
Very good advice John. I am a 75 year old retired Deputy Constable from South Texas and I have done the color coding since I was on the job and it has saved my Bacon more then once. The hair on the back of my neck goes up and I am about 3 seconds ahead of decision time.
Wal-Mart knows what they're doing with the isle separation to prove it. They also have actual guards dressed as the most chilled civilians. The only thing that could really kill you at WM is the try out kits for drugs which sometimes they cap at 3, sometimes you wear a hat and they forgot to cap it a 7.
It's the one thing I'm greatfull for, growing up in a rough neighbourhood. It gave me situational awareness and ability to read people who are a threat. It was just a part of life and didn't realise how useful and easily adaptive the skill was until I started my interest in CQB/tactical shooting/survival. Me and my Grandad watch all your videos in the UK. We really appreciate you sharing your knowledge and practical skills. Thank you!
Lol, me and my son just had this conversation. He gets angry when some one says he's paranoid when he says he's prepared for bad things to happen as much as he can. I like the points you bring up about your subconscious. That gut feeling something ain't right with this person/situation. Making yourself aware of this thing that happens when your brain and subconscious kick in, isn't easy to notice sometimes. It's not paranoia until you jump on the person who dress's like a slob on they're best day, lol. The line between the being ready and paranoid is easy to cross. Knowing how/when to recognize it is where too many fail and start obsessing about everything is a threat. This is just as important as doing drills to prepare.
When I was a bank teller, I was taught to suspect even little old ladies, but ONLY as a "yellow zone" level threat, and mainly for theft or manipulation attempts, not physical, knife, granade throwing grannies. Great video! You really addressed some topics I never even considered! Thank you!
My dad was a combat vet and gunnery sgt. in the Marine Corps World War two…. he was also a drill instructor for five years. Couldn’t ask for a better dad. He made sure all of his boys kept their heads on a swivel. We were all situationally aware. It has served me well over the years helping me avoid some situations and be prepared when I needed.
I realized my situational awareness needed work when my parents pointed out the fact that I was constantly unaware of my surroundings when I was a teen. (About 14 yrs old) Most folks are oblivious of their own unawareness, which makes them the definition of a soft-target.. Situational awareness is definitely an acquired skill, and takes time to develop.
There’s many different ways of awareness news 🗞️ checking your house listening while coming in checking and checking all before bed 🛌 leaving your house, looking both ways before exiting the door while driving being aware of what streets are close, red lights looking both ways before going through an intersection. green lights paying attention to other drivers around you and areas stores houses people walking staying alert is always important. These are just some of the things you need to be aware of.
Yes indeed. Great comments. I've found my unconscious calm alertness working when walking in dark around house and it seems my reflexes kicked in super fast to avoid hitting my head etc... and then at other times I'm just not alert/ aware enough and hit myself or knock into something ? Tired or distracted... talking to family member... funny how that it? I suppose my 6th sense is not always switched on. Great observation. Thank you
Can you please do a video of maybe a handful of threat indicators that may move you from "yellow" to "orange"? I get the basic "guy walks in with black hoodie with hood up and hands in pocket" type thing but what are some things YOU think should be indicators. Could you also please do a video of tips on how to spot someone carrying? Thanks!
Production Manager... a woman's perspective People looking nervous with their eyes darting around. People who look really angry and volatile. People who nervously try and engage you in a fast-talking communicative Style maybe someone else is going to steal your purse or endanger you from another Direction. people overly interested in you your friend or your children trying to engage them in conversation or following you. People walking too close to you. People looking all around you to see if you're alone. People who ask for money or people who see you taking money out of your wallet with large bills who don't look kosher to use a New York expression....etc
Black hoodie, Hood up, Hands In Pockets, describes every emo school kid in the US. Don't let my 13 year old niece take your attention away from the bad guy.
This guy is great. He really has quality presentations. I havent ever heard anything he says that I disagree with. Probably one of the most realistic perspectives I have heard.
The irony in what just happened is so funny. You replied to my comment on pt2 of this series while im halfway through this video. Keep up the good work.
I am amazed at the people who walk around With ear buds In their ears looking down Not paying any attention to Who or what is going on As a veteran who seen some stuff and been in a few situations I take nothing for granted My advice is pay attention and don't let ur devices distract you
Some people have the luxury of never expierencing a life threatening situation and don't walk around in fear of their life 24/7. They might say the guy that walks around with a loaded concealed gun in constant anticipation of a mass shooting is crazy and don't know how they do it. Goes both ways
I discovered your channel yesterday and have watched at least ten of your video's. I am a Christian, USAF vet, and retired police officer with 29 years service. I am part of our church security team as well. I really appreciate your approach to training, tactics-tactics-tactics. We had a attempted home invasion three years ago. 11:00 at night, didn't have any outside lights on, which was very much out of the ordinary. There was a knock on the door and fortunately, our two German Shepherds were on the job. They tried eating their way through the door while I grabbed my pistol and flashlight. I looked out a window and saw nothing. I opened the door and started slowly moving toward our drive, which leads to a major county road, 75 yards away. I heard doors slamming on a car, and the engine started, then the car sped away without any lights. Point is, I was relaxed in the white zone, even with all my training and experience. Lesson learned. I am now subscribed to your channel and will continue to catch up on your video's.
Good concept and examples. For those interested in more, a good book is "Left of Bang." One thing I think people miss on this concept is playing through in your mind what you will do if something happens. Such as being aware of cover and concealment, avenue of escape, etc. I mentally rehearse if faced with some situation what would I do in this environment? This comes from background in law enforcement. I normally carry things in my weak hand as they are expendable and can be thrown toward threat as distraction while I engage my firearm.
Keith > Great advice! This is the same thing an athlete does before a competition -- 'visualizing' their movements. And Karate 'Kata's' are exactly that...imaginary fights where you build muscle memory of your physical movements! And with many years of racing and professional driving even buses and semi's, and an avid motorcyclist... I do the same in my driving! Always aware of not getting 'boxed in' in traffic, and continually being aware of 'escape routes' if I need to change lanes or other evasive movements... So...don't let yourself get into "a box" and be aware of ways out of the box if you get caught in a bad situation...
Believe it or not when I go into a fast food restaurant with my grandchildren I always look for an alternate way out and not to box myself in while watching the doors and who comes in
One of the best situational awareness videos I have seen, it is actually very interesting how some people are so naive and in their own heads and never notice any potential threat until it's already there.
John our backgrounds are very similar. This is one of the first classes I took (subject wise). Stereotypes exist for a reason and most time will save your life. Good stuff. Cheers
@@nnsss666 How will stereotyping get him killed? (specifically) Frankly, I agree with him. So unless he (Mark Reid) is actually the one to initiate something, stereotyping in his mind (to be prepared) wouldn't be obvious to anyone. Unless he did something overt, only he would know about it. All that means is he's going to keep his eye on certain people. I think we all do that to varying degrees.
@@209er2 Gang bangers. Wearing the same colors is a good place to start. People who are hanging around without a noticeable purpose. People who are just standing around and watching etc.... When people talk about singers or actors they talk about the "it" factor....they can't exactly tell you what "it" is, but they know "it" when they see "it". There are just some folks that get your radar to ping...those are the folks I'm talking about. I'll say again, you don't have to do something overt....you keep it to yourself but you're aware they are there. If you're going to your car in a parking lot when it's dark and there are folks hanging around, you'll probably keep your eye on their movements...I would.....and no, it doesn't have to have something to do with race. A guy wearing a "cut" that has the name of a motorcycle "club" on it 'might" be someone you'd want to keep your eye on. Things like that. Or it could be the guy who's dressed in some "tacticool" clothes when it's too hot to wear them. Again, people who get your radar/gut to ping, because they just don't look right. You don't have to do something other than be aware they are there.
Situational awareness will keep you alive and un injured more than any amount of training or any weapon you can carry...99% of the time. Great vid, just found your channel, subbed, and love your attitude, personality, and sense of humor. Thank you for your military service John, men like you are who made this country great. Thanks again brother! Keep up the great vids.
All the things that we learned in the military. It is good to review them from time to time as they help reinforce the critical thinking and action process.
This is pretty much what I said when I had to testify about an attack that put me in a coma for four days. Prosecutor asked if its altered the way I live my daily life and I said "yeah, that little voice in the back of your head saying that you're being paranoid and profiling people is not legitimate. Basically, the understanding that everyone can be a threat and those I perceive as a higher threat has been vindicated."
So true. If you're always in orange, life sucks. I did nightclub security, mostly weekends, for years. I haven't done so for about a year and a half at this point. I'm still way more jumpy than anyone should be going thru normal day life. It doesn't help that this particular location was/is known for having people do gun fights - the last summer I was there, it was every weekend, a lot of times both Friday night and Saturday night.
Thank you, for all your Videos. I just found you about 4 months ago but You have given me so much great information! I want to be aware , and ready in the time of need. What I really need the situational awareness class for reaching over your SpecOps Devgru husband while he is sleeping, to quietly shut the light off next to the bed! Seriously, Almost got killed.
Trauma survivor here. Move fluidly through those states of awareness. Those indicators you listed: odd stance, clenched fist, furrowed brow .... used to be called "antsy." Learned in early childhood. As an 8 year old girl, a neighbor man coached me in a game of about a dozen kids playing Hide and Seek. OMG What he taught me. Concealment Observation, Patience, accurate self appraisal, accurate opponent appraisal, careful judgment of distance and running speed of ALL players. Leverage my strengths against my opponents weakness. Thanks 😎 Dave!
On Being AliveWhen I am talking to my students about awareness, I also point out the other, greater benefit; that there are many more good things in the world than bad, and most people miss them. By living in Yellow, you get to experience them. A sunset, a shy smile shared between a new couple, a baby's gurgling laugh, the caress of a breeze, the relaxing warmth of the sun's rays soaking into your skin, the perfume of some flowers from upwind..... Those things happen everyday. But most people live in a little self-made, self-containing bubble that excludes the majority of that thing we call life. If being 'aware' also clues me in when danger lurks, well, that's a bonus. :) A lot of people don't react well to the 'doom and gloom' of being on the look out for bad guys 24/7. I don't blame them. Paranoia is tiring. Being 'Alive' is rejuvenating.
Situational Awareness can also be summarized as the "O.O.D.A" loop: O - Observation (zone white = relaxed) O - Orientation (zone yellow = relaxed, but aware - like driving your car) D - Decision (potential threat = decide what to do before hand when "x" happens) A - Act (execute your plan of attack or escape to survive encounter) As always, great video!
Just found your channel. I have to say I am really impressed with your content. Plus you seem like a really cool guy haha. Thanks for the videos man they help a lot!
Wow! After watching this guy for 9 minutes and thinking, "yeah I know how to be situational aware, I'm so cool" I didn't even notice that he had a gun under the shirt until he actually showed it! Really unexpected!
SysEng seriously? I mean, Il give the man some credit that its really hard to hide for a 9 min video when people have nothing else to look at. But that was crazy obvious lol
Absolutely. Situational awareness and escaping/avoiding danger whenever possible is the best self-defense. Once the confrontation starts, all bets are off.
Excellent vid mam. I used to teach Tae Kwon Do and women's self defense. The first thing I ever told them was BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS. If you are walking out of the grocery store fumbling with your keys and not paying attention to your surroundings you have made yourself a big target for a predator. Predators look for weaknesses because they want an easy prey. They don't want to get hurt trying to obtain that prey. You must think like a predator. Second thing I taught was muscle memory. You do something over and over and even carry out senarios in your mind...you may not do it perfectly but you will do something. I have been out of martial arts for 20 years but every now and then I meet someone coming around a blind corner and I am tensed to act. My body remembers. Good stuff man keep up the good work
I wish someone had really taught me this as a young girl. I remember being 21 and newly married, going to the mall with my husband for a meal and shopping. We had to stop at the ATM to draw money and while he had his back turned I stood a couple feet away from him just waiting quietly and people watching. A group of 6 nigerian guys walk up to me and the leader takes my hand between both of his with a HUGE smile on his face and his other guys cut me off immediately from my 6ft 7 husband who still had his back to me unaware of what was happening. They asked me who I was at the mall with, what my name was and ultimately my freaking age. Every cell in my body was screaming at me that something was off. When I nodded to my husband and they saw this massive guy I was with they instantly dropped the act and moved away, but to this day I freak out when I think about it.
Good video. I was a pastor's usher/bodyguard for several years and have lots of funny (and some not so funny) stories, such as the first-time visiting sketchy guy on the back row who dives into his backpack as I'm behind him moving fast to prevent an attack when he comes up from his backpack holding a big black Bible! My arms over his shoulders became a friendly half-hug... :)
The sad thing is that a lot of the sort of people that attend classes where that chart is even brought up are the sort who are in the orange most of the time because they decide to attend after have some unfortunate brush in with danger (that came from another person). I was met a man who literally told me he was always in the red... 🙄
Hey man my name is jacob and i am Shooting instructir from Israel And i love your work I see that in your eyes u talk true Keep doing great job man 🇮🇱🇺🇸💪
The way I think about condition yellow is like when you are driving a car. Your aware of what the other drivers around you are doing, your not paranoid, or freaking out, and your not expecting anything to happen your just paying attention to what they are doing so you can react in time if somebody does do something stupid. Or say you see someone who is driving drunk, or serving in and out of lanes you see the guy in time you can keep your distance from him, and keep an eye on what he is doing, that would be like condition orange. Red would be if you had to slam on your breaks. Or drive somewhere else, or serve out of the way. White would be if you are texting or just not paying attention, to the road or in the back seat sleeping or looking out the window. Almost everyone lives in a form of condition yellow on some level if they remotely aware of whats going on around them, like looking out where they are going when walking or crossing the street. Your just adding a couple of extra layers to that like looking out for suspicious behavior,. Avoiding potentially dangerous locations where you might in counter a situation where you have to use deadly force, and not sitting with your back to the door when you are in a rest restaurant, and knowing where the exits are.
Very good video, thanks for posting, John. Another aspect of situational awareness that is not talked about too frequently is the fact that it is a natural, albeit suppressed, response to our environment. It was not too long ago in our evolutionary experience that we were considered lunch or dinner to many of the large animals that shared the environment with us. Because of those tens of thousands of years of not being an apex animal we had developed a very keen sense of our surroundings and any threats that may be hiding within. Modern humans have not lost this ability, but from lack of use and lack of immediate need, it has metamorphosed to become that subtle undefinable feeling that someone is watching you, or the hairs suddenly standing up on the back of your neck without any perceived threat. If we, as brothers and sisters in arms, become more attuned to these types of feelings and begin to trust in what they are telling you, then we will become much more honed to your environment and would be able to move with much greater ease through the 4 colors of threat perception described in this video.
Political correctness is a war on noticing. For example, we’re not supposed to notice, or even speak of, the truths laid out here: Color of Crime ruclips.net/video/oEPS5ArYaKE/видео.html
Political correctness doesn’t exist (except from politicians duh). We on the left just call it not being a dick. Its not mind control (or it would be controlling your mind, right?) And the elites don’t give a fuck about what you say about disenfranchised people. The people who became rich by exploiting people without power are not conspiring to make you more aware of and compassionate to the people they exploited. They try to keep that from happening.
Back when good police solved crimes, profiling was an art. My wife has been with me for 32 years, 28yrs were in the military. She is a very good threat assessor. She has heard me over and over explaining it.
I came across some people training at the range in Albuquerque, NM with WPS shirts and got a little grin and said to myself, self... try to get to know those people. My family and I really appreciate the work you put into teaching us what we need to know to be responsible for our own safety.
Few things make me feel like a dumbass more than turning around in a parking lot, to see somebody a few feet from me that I was unaware of. I at least recognize that this is a bad thing, and I need to do a better job.
I've been guilty of that myself. When you grow up in an environment where looking at someone on the street for a half second too long can cause a big problem, you condition yourself to mind your own business. Im trying to break the habit.
Such a great video. I have alway been a huge believer in situational awareness, unfortunately not as many people these days recognise a possible threat when it comes into their slightly distant or near perimetre. For as example in my line of work I have to always be aware of people around me and be ready for any situation. I tell my staff under me that my position doesn't just require communicating and ordering people around, it's about gauging the situation and making decisions on the go at a moments decision. I suppose it's not until you start to mentor people that they actually see where you are coming from. Thanks John Lovell!
Wonderful sir. Especially the very last comment about being aware of your environment as a course of action is far more important than being good with a gun, or martial arts/ fighting skills I might add, as most of us can figure out. If you remove a threat by being aware of it ahead of time thereby avoiding it, it's much easier and safer.
This really brings back memories of my childhood. I grew up around extreme violence and became very good at reading people and they're danger level. unfortunately I have lost a lot of this ability as a adult. Sometimes wish I had it back.
I love how you do your video, then seem to get through better, at least to me. I don't feel like I have a drill instructor screaming at me again Iol. But you made me realize something, I'm always watching people. One of the habits of being a truck driver, but I have noticed almost all truck driver look in one way or another like you described here. No wonder people don't talk to us lol. Thanks man another great video
I live in Cali where most of y'all know that a CCP is impossible to get. Every time I walk or go to any public place, even school I'm hypervigilant. Now the question is; Do I become a criminal so I can protect myself? Or am I just simply at the mercy of campus police? Either way, shit is fucked here in cali.
Some good info for the common person and how to profile. He's spot on when it comes to picking out the potential threatening details in a public environment and ignoring the non-threatening details.
I was stabbed by a mugger at night in a bad neighborhood, my situational awareness was shoddy. Looking overing my shoulder has increased 80%. Also, you bringing up the 12 year old with a machete really makes the 13 year old involved in a machete brawl outside a Frozen 2 screening ironic.
I love some of the commentary about personal experiences around this topic. I had the situational awareness cap on before I joined the Army, and it got better with training. My Spidey-Sense saved me on 2 occasions in very similar fashion to Field Strip's experience. Them knowing that you know changes things a lot. Eyballing my nemisis and preserving a personal perimeter with cover and escape, intimidated my opponent's will to execute. Problem stopped before it began.😇👍
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Remember this; just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean someone’s not after you.😂👍🏻
🙆
Exactly
Thanks for the reminder 🤣
Amen !!
Someone is ALWAYS after you....
I’ve had a motto for about 25 years now...
“I’d rather be paranoid than taken by surprise”
Semper Fi
rah
My dad, Special Forces Sgt. Stephen Gonzalez, taught me and my brother and sisters to be aware. He said "If you're aware, you dont need to be paranoid." I passed that to my kiddos and they use it and its helped them in a couple of situations. Great info.
"Then I saw little Tiffany. I'm thinking, y'know, eight-year-old white girl, middle of the ghetto, bunch of monsters, this time of night with quantum physics books? She about to start some shit, Zed. She's about eight years old, those books are WAY too advanced for her. If you ask me, I'd say she's up to something. And to be honest, I'd appreciate it if you eased up off my back about it."
I was into quantum physics after Nuclear Science at eight. Super 8.like so true (not) we just want Nuclear energy for electricity really and Air Conditioning. Ha😇😏
Remember Fuku ShiMA
Bro bro bro bro....why doesn't this comment have more likes than the video has views?? 😂😂😂
Or do I owe her an apology?
You are the best of the best of the best.....with honors 🤣
Situation awareness isn't always looking out for bad guys. It's paying attention to weather forecasts, inspecting your vehicle and reading, watching reliable news for changing social environments.
Personal Story: I am a female, at 5'6", 111 pounds, and a military veteran. I live in northern Virginia 10 minutes from D.C. I have a CC (conceal carry) permit and I do conceal carry a pistol. No one would suspect that I am armed. I do not look the part...........
I keep the situational awareness hat on at all times (yellow level). One evening I had just gotten off duty, I am walking on the sidewalk about to walk onto the private concrete walkway leading to the door to get to my place, when a male subject quickly exits a vehicle approximately 80 yards or 240-245 feet away, or less than a standard city block away on the same sidewalk as I, the car motor still running, its park lights are on, and another man at the wheel...........
There were no other persons in sight. I was alone. The car was too far away to see the license plate. The man is approaching fast as I am still on the sidewalk as I am trying to get to the walkway. We are walking toward each other. But my alarm bells go off. I am carrying one of my CC pistols in a holster on my hip. I stop walking and position myself to make this man aware that I am paying attention to him while I was also keeping my eye on the man still in the car. The man on the sidewalk keeps coming towards me. Now I have placed my weapon hand in "ready" to "draw" position. I do not see him carrying a weapon. But he is walking directly toward me. I wanted to avoid a fight for my life. But I am ready for any adverse sudden movement and or display of a weapon. I was hoping to achieve deterrence. I did not want to show fear and flight was not an option...........
He is getting closer. So I place distance between us by stepping off the sidewalk over approximately 15 feet, and got into a position to draw from a safer distance. The man on foot has now walked pass my position. I am sure he now knows I am watching him but he stops walking. Why? His back is to me. The man in the car I now have my back to him. Then the man on the sidewalk turns around, looking directly at me, and suddenly he sees my hand hovering over the grip of my pistol ready to draw. An uncomfortable look comes over his face because I am no longer his target. He gets out of there quickly heading back in the direction he came from, back to the car. I did not have to draw my weapon...........
My non-verbal body language spoke for itself, he got the message: One wrong move and I will draw my firearm on you. I thought things would get worse. I was in fear of an imminent attack. However, I remained very calm due to the fact it hit me that I might have to take this shot if he were to brandish a weapon or lurch at me. Taking a shot at another human being is serious business, whether in uniform or not, and not to be taken lightly. Because then comes the aftermath of a shooting incident. I was in civilian status at this time. And these men clearly did not suspect I was carrying a firearm...........
Way to go. Women above all should want minimal gun control. It always boggles my mind when I hear them speak against being armed. Women have forgotten that they enjoy peace and safety only to the extent that men allow it. Guns give them a better chance against the bad guys.
Did you call the police to report this? They might have moved on to another victim that wasn't armed.
you're my hero. I always believe a strong female protagonist, like Kate Beckinsale or Catherine Zeta-Jones, in contrast to Captain Marvel and all the b.s. If you like my thoughts you can check my twitter.
I live in Northern Virginia too. What neighborhood was this in? I'm in Annandale.
The point of concealing is not letting anyone know you are carrying. Never put your hand on the grip if you don’t intend on drawing your concealed weapon. Work on your draw instead
This is something my dad taught me when I was young. I've never understood people that aren't aware of their surroundings.
And all the people that never look up astounds me
Everyone seems to only be interested in their phones. They're asking to get mugged or run over by a car because they don't look at anything but their phone screen.
I’m situationally aware but I use my phone as a way to blend in I’m not actually on my phone I’m just holding it and quickly glancing in all directions and every once in a while look down at the black screen pretend to scroll then look back up 😂
As a former infantry Marine that has been down range, I 110% agree and have heard much of this before. Great video, keep up the good work.
I see a threat every time a Senator or Congressman speaks
Exactly, especially this "so called" admin!!
@@pallmall5014 Dont kid yourself, you got this Admin. Because the Alternatives were even worse.
Amen
@@carlosochoa713 good luck
Fuck the feds 🌺🌺🌺
Everyone thinks they are safe until they get shanked by grandma lol good stuff
+P226nut it's an epidemic
+John Lovell (warriorpoetsociety) they carry knitting needles ya know lol
Ever worked with Israelis? Took a class with one and he was saying pretty much exactly what you did.
Those walking sticks are lethal...lol
And dentures in the right hands...you're SO dead.
If you look around and you don’t spot the sketchy dude... YOU’RE the sketchy dude. 😂
😂😂😂😂
Lol. That would be correct
Ha ha ha
Lol 😂🤪
Or he's right behind you🤣
Really well said. The military's explanation of Coopers colors was mistakenly focused on wanting to be at "Red" and fully alert at all times; which very quickly caused burnout. It wasn't until much later that a friend of mine described it far better by relating it to driving. "You don't want to be at white unless you are asleep; so probably not at the wheel. Yellow would be just doing the normal somewhat autopilot driving. This frees up your mental energy for looking at other cars and making sure all is well. You may see some people breaking and turning without blinkers, but not a big deal. Orange comes about when you've identified a drunk driver or some similar nonsense and have started to take action to keep yourself safe. And, of course, Red is when someone (like said drunk driver) is swerving at your car, running a red light, or actively being a threat to those around him/her.
When it was explained like that, it was a lot easier to understand the need of relaxing white, cruising at yellow, being focused on orange, and defensively dodging at red.
Very helpful car analogy. Ty friend!
That’s a great metaphor we’ll communicated
I've used Cooper's Colors for years as a way to keep myself in check for level of awareness. It's kind of a joke, but when I explained this system to my wife I also told her I had one of my own categories and sadly I see it becoming more prevalent, I call it condition Clear; the totally oblivious ones walking around with their faces buried in their phones. As in seeing a pretty girl going to her car, face in phone, texting away, completely unaware of her surroundings or threats, I'd say to my wife, "she's in condition Clear".
I think "The Gift Of Fear" might be a good book to read in conjunction with this, in terms of learning to spot a potential problem.
Excellent lesson for real-world self defense. Former karate student here. The schools i attended totally ignored this stuff. Their agendas were geared toward sports, fitness, fun, and making money for the instructors. Almost a complete waste of time in my opinion. This lecture points to the real deal in my opinion. Survival is the thing.
this is funny because me being born and raised and still currently living in Memphis Tn (A not so safe place lol) this type of awareness is second nature. I almost find it funny that some people walk around oblivious because I can’t fathom not being situationally aware. This is a true testament to human nature and how the environment you grow up in shapes you as an individual.
This is one of the first and most important lessons I teach in my handgun self-defense classes, for, a 360º situational awareness can be a better tool than even a firearm in saving your life.
I've seen this video dozens of times and I can't believe how far this channel has come in 5 years
I have two take out restaurants in Johannesburg and EVERY time there's been an incident it's exactly who you thought it would be - profiling works I tell you! We've learned the hard way that there's no room for political correctness when you're trying to look after your own...
I make my wife hold a gun when we make out so I don't always have to be on guard. love is give and take.
haha - so psychotic
I guess it depends on who is on top... (Grin)
Just remember, when she has a Gun in her hand...No Really MEANS NO!! Ha Ha !!
Floyd Burdett lol
Bricefsven S so you 100% shore she is not going to shoot you.
Bricefsven S ha great stuff sir
Great information about situational awareness. I think it would be a good idea to let people know how you can become a victim of crime due to severe lack of situational awareness. For example, people on smart phones, talking, texting, reading their tablets and they have no clue what is going on around them. I was on my motorcycle one time about to make a right turn, and some woman texting on her phone, stepped in front of me without even looking or being aware of my actions. People who get so caught up in what they are doing to the point that they will walk right into a bad situation until it is too late.
I'm currently 1/4th of the way through the book "The Gift of Fear" as a result of you and James. This saying keeps popping in my mind as I become more and more educated -"you don't know that you don't know....." Please keep up the great content and I'm glad your channel came across my RUclips recommended watch. Been subscribed for a few weeks and back watching most of the videos.
Loved that book!
"Hanging upside down, checking your guns, sharpening your knives" 😅 You're cracking me up man.
I tell my wife about situational awareness all the time and she still thinks it's an excuse to check out other women lol
It's not an excuse, it's a reason
If I've learned anything from movies, the hottest ladies wearing the tightest clothes are the most likely to be assassins and spies. They need to be watched closely for danger.
Im using this line! Thank you my good sir.
It is
😂
There’s something to be said for intuition. There’s times I’m walking my dog around the park after dark and greeting the person walking past with a smile and other times I’m watching the 2 guys by the swings out of the corner of my eye.
Sooo true. Be aware of your surroundings. It’s something everyone needs to practice. Just be aware of what’s HAPPENING. You know, LIFE. Great video
On your tombstone: "Stabbed by a soccer mom that he dismissed as not a threat."
Robert Donnell I don’t think so
Yall play 2 much
I've been watching your videos for a long time. There was a active shooter in Jacksonville today. I'm coming back and sharing this whole series with all my friends. Everyone in today's world need to be thinking of these things. Thanks for all you do John.
"you can't spend all day...taking your gun apart and sharpening your knives. You gotta chill out" What if that's my idea of chilling out? Huh? You don't know me.
Aidan Druck I do that every Sunday.
Hahaha!
NICE!
Ummm.. I call everyone idiots because they write the dumbest shit, so know if I could honor you with a medal, it would probably be silver just for the small hindrance of finding something more to do, plus you could chip all nice paint job. But yeah, that's comical but a fine answer, found especially in bodyguards, soldiers, and people who drink a lot, so I guess yeah, mostly soldiers. Cuban police actually drink during interrogations.
@@Heyoupally Not sure what military your thinking of but US Army has very little racism in it. Now I will admit having hateful feelings towards middle easterners that despise America because we choose not to believe in the same thing. But I have to hear there thoughts first. And zero tolerance for drugs or alcohol. Random drug testing at any time. And they did it alot. In 3 years I was probably tested 13 times.
Very good advice John. I am a 75 year old retired Deputy Constable from South Texas and I have done the color coding since I was on the job and it has saved my Bacon more then once. The hair on the back of my neck goes up and I am about 3 seconds ahead of decision time.
Be especially aware at Wal-Mart.
Walmart is one of the most dangerous places. Something always happens at walmart.
Walmart is always a shit show
Wal-Mart knows what they're doing with the isle separation to prove it. They also have actual guards dressed as the most chilled civilians. The only thing that could really kill you at WM is the try out kits for drugs which sometimes they cap at 3, sometimes you wear a hat and they forgot to cap it a 7.
A female friend of my wife got robbed at knifepoint in the parking lot recently
Very true. A lot of criminals, mine is so bad, the electronics section is locked from like 9 pm.
Man, I got to tell you, this recognition of the work that civilian security professionals do is really refreshing, thanks for this video.
What a unique personality. I really enjoy your unintentional humor. Keep up the good work Hermano.
thanks bro! Bendiciones!
It's the one thing I'm greatfull for, growing up in a rough neighbourhood. It gave me situational awareness and ability to read people who are a threat. It was just a part of life and didn't realise how useful and easily adaptive the skill was until I started my interest in CQB/tactical shooting/survival.
Me and my Grandad watch all your videos in the UK. We really appreciate you sharing your knowledge and practical skills. Thank you!
Lol, me and my son just had this conversation. He gets angry when some one says he's paranoid when he says he's prepared for bad things to happen as much as he can.
I like the points you bring up about your subconscious. That gut feeling something ain't right with this person/situation. Making yourself aware of this thing that happens when your brain and subconscious kick in, isn't easy to notice sometimes. It's not paranoia until you jump on the person who dress's like a slob on they're best day, lol. The line between the being ready and paranoid is easy to cross. Knowing how/when to recognize it is where too many fail and start obsessing about everything is a threat. This is just as important as doing drills to prepare.
When I was a bank teller, I was taught to suspect even little old ladies, but ONLY as a "yellow zone" level threat, and mainly for theft or manipulation attempts, not physical, knife, granade throwing grannies. Great video! You really addressed some topics I never even considered! Thank you!
"hanging upside down taking your gun apart and sharpening your knife".... I burst out in laughter!!!
Great video
My dad was a combat vet and gunnery sgt. in the Marine Corps World War two…. he was also a drill instructor for five years. Couldn’t ask for a better dad. He made sure all of his boys kept their heads on a swivel. We were all situationally aware. It has served me well over the years helping me avoid some situations and be prepared when I needed.
I realized my situational awareness needed work when my parents pointed out the fact that I was constantly unaware of my surroundings when I was a teen. (About 14 yrs old) Most folks are oblivious of their own unawareness, which makes them the definition of a soft-target.. Situational awareness is definitely an acquired skill, and takes time to develop.
So glad I found this guy. So real and sensible. Making my 18 year old 100lb daughter watch before she goes off to college.
There’s many different ways of awareness news 🗞️ checking your house listening while coming in checking and checking all before bed 🛌 leaving your house, looking both ways before exiting the door while driving being aware of what streets are close, red lights looking both ways before going through an intersection. green lights paying attention to other drivers around you and areas stores houses people walking staying alert is always important. These are just some of the things you need to be aware of.
Yes indeed. Great comments. I've found my unconscious calm alertness working when walking in dark around house and it seems my reflexes kicked in super fast to avoid hitting my head etc... and then at other times I'm just not alert/ aware enough and hit myself or knock into something ? Tired or distracted... talking to family member... funny how that it? I suppose my 6th sense is not always switched on.
Great observation. Thank you
Can you please do a video of maybe a handful of threat indicators that may move you from "yellow" to "orange"? I get the basic "guy walks in with black hoodie with hood up and hands in pocket" type thing but what are some things YOU think should be indicators. Could you also please do a video of tips on how to spot someone carrying? Thanks!
+Production Manager great idea. I'll put it in the queue
Production Manager.
Production Manager... a woman's perspective People looking nervous with their eyes darting around. People who look really angry and volatile. People who nervously try and engage you in a fast-talking communicative Style maybe someone else is going to steal your purse or endanger you from another Direction. people overly interested in you your friend or your children trying to engage them in conversation or following you. People walking too close to you. People looking all around you to see if you're alone. People who ask for money or people who see you taking money out of your wallet with large bills who don't look kosher to use a New York expression....etc
Production Manager
That guy in the red shirt is carrying ( printing ).
Black hoodie, Hood up, Hands In Pockets, describes every emo school kid in the US. Don't let my 13 year old niece take your attention away from the bad guy.
This guy is great. He really has quality presentations. I havent ever heard anything he says that I disagree with. Probably one of the most realistic perspectives I have heard.
Be the grey man, observe and blend in but be ready to exit or react!
The irony in what just happened is so funny. You replied to my comment on pt2 of this series while im halfway through this video. Keep up the good work.
+Alex Henley I'm on it bro
Excellent topic for all. I’m a professional protection specialist. -aka bodyguard.Thank you for keeping things real with so much b.s. out there.
Being a correctional officer has taught me situational awareness. It’s become a subconscious skill for whenever I’m out in public at all.
I am amazed at the people who walk around With ear buds In their ears looking down Not paying any attention to Who or what is going on As a veteran who seen some stuff and been in a few situations I take nothing for granted My advice is pay attention and don't let ur devices distract you
Some people have the luxury of never expierencing a life threatening situation and don't walk around in fear of their life 24/7. They might say the guy that walks around with a loaded concealed gun in constant anticipation of a mass shooting is crazy and don't know how they do it. Goes both ways
I discovered your channel yesterday and have watched at least ten of your video's. I am a Christian, USAF vet, and retired police officer with 29 years service. I am part of our church security team as well. I really appreciate your approach to training, tactics-tactics-tactics. We had a attempted home invasion three years ago. 11:00 at night, didn't have any outside lights on, which was very much out of the ordinary. There was a knock on the door and fortunately, our two German Shepherds were on the job. They tried eating their way through the door while I grabbed my pistol and flashlight. I looked out a window and saw nothing. I opened the door and started slowly moving toward our drive, which leads to a major county road, 75 yards away. I heard doors slamming on a car, and the engine started, then the car sped away without any lights. Point is, I was relaxed in the white zone, even with all my training and experience. Lesson learned. I am now subscribed to your channel and will continue to catch up on your video's.
Indiana sport shooter: You've come to the right place. I've been a sub and patron for over 2 years, and am a better more skilled protector for it.
Good concept and examples. For those interested in more, a good book is "Left of Bang." One thing I think people miss on this concept is playing through in your mind what you will do if something happens. Such as being aware of cover and concealment, avenue of escape, etc. I mentally rehearse if faced with some situation what would I do in this environment? This comes from background in law enforcement. I normally carry things in my weak hand as they are expendable and can be thrown toward threat as distraction while I engage my firearm.
good book - I just read it a few weeks ago. Thanks for your response
Keith Hutchison you are absolutely correct ☺
Keith > Great advice! This is the same thing an athlete does before a competition -- 'visualizing' their movements. And Karate 'Kata's' are exactly that...imaginary fights where you build muscle memory of your physical movements!
And with many years of racing and professional driving even buses and semi's, and an avid motorcyclist... I do the same in my driving! Always aware of not getting 'boxed in' in traffic, and continually being aware of 'escape routes' if I need to change lanes or other evasive movements...
So...don't let yourself get into "a box" and be aware of ways out of the box if you get caught in a bad situation...
Believe it or not when I go into a fast food restaurant with my grandchildren I always look for an alternate way out and not to box myself in while watching the doors and who comes in
One of the best situational awareness videos I have seen, it is actually very interesting how some people are so naive and in their own heads and never notice any potential threat until it's already there.
John our backgrounds are very similar. This is one of the first classes I took (subject wise). Stereotypes exist for a reason and most time will save your life. Good stuff. Cheers
Stereotypes will get you killed my man! 🖒
@@nnsss666 How will stereotyping get him killed? (specifically) Frankly, I agree with him. So unless he (Mark Reid) is actually the one to initiate something, stereotyping in his mind (to be prepared) wouldn't be obvious to anyone. Unless he did something overt, only he would know about it. All that means is he's going to keep his eye on certain people. I think we all do that to varying degrees.
@@tidefanyankee2428 just curious, can you give some examples of these sterotypes? What type of people should we be on the look out for?
@@209er2 Gang bangers. Wearing the same colors is a good place to start. People who are hanging around without a noticeable purpose. People who are just standing around and watching etc....
When people talk about singers or actors they talk about the "it" factor....they can't exactly tell you what "it" is, but they know "it" when they see "it".
There are just some folks that get your radar to ping...those are the folks I'm talking about. I'll say again, you don't have to do something overt....you keep it to yourself but you're aware they are there. If you're going to your car in a parking lot when it's dark and there are folks hanging around, you'll probably keep your eye on their movements...I would.....and no, it doesn't have to have something to do with race. A guy wearing a "cut" that has the name of a motorcycle "club" on it 'might" be someone you'd want to keep your eye on. Things like that. Or it could be the guy who's dressed in some "tacticool" clothes when it's too hot to wear them. Again, people who get your radar/gut to ping, because they just don't look right. You don't have to do something other than be aware they are there.
Situational awareness will keep you alive and un injured more than any amount of training or any weapon you can carry...99% of the time. Great vid, just found your channel, subbed, and love your attitude, personality, and sense of humor. Thank you for your military service John, men like you are who made this country great. Thanks again brother! Keep up the great vids.
My wife and I would love to train with THE warrior poet!!! You seem like such a good, knowledgeable teacher👍
we would love to have you down
@@WarriorPoetSociety where is your teaching schedule?
All the things that we learned in the military. It is good to review them from time to time as they help reinforce the critical thinking and action process.
This is pretty much what I said when I had to testify about an attack that put me in a coma for four days. Prosecutor asked if its altered the way I live my daily life and I said "yeah, that little voice in the back of your head saying that you're being paranoid and profiling people is not legitimate. Basically, the understanding that everyone can be a threat and those I perceive as a higher threat has been vindicated."
So true. If you're always in orange, life sucks. I did nightclub security, mostly weekends, for years. I haven't done so for about a year and a half at this point. I'm still way more jumpy than anyone should be going thru normal day life.
It doesn't help that this particular location was/is known for having people do gun fights - the last summer I was there, it was every weekend, a lot of times both Friday night and Saturday night.
Thank you, for all your Videos. I just found you about 4 months ago but You have given me so much great information! I want to be aware , and ready in the time of need.
What I really need the situational awareness class for reaching over your SpecOps Devgru husband while he is sleeping, to quietly shut the light off next to the bed! Seriously, Almost got killed.
haha! Glad you are still with us. Thanks for tuning in
inwonderwoman
Trauma survivor here. Move fluidly through those states of awareness.
Those indicators you listed: odd stance, clenched fist, furrowed brow .... used to be called "antsy." Learned in early childhood.
As an 8 year old girl, a neighbor man coached me in a game of about a dozen kids playing Hide and Seek. OMG What he taught me.
Concealment Observation, Patience, accurate self appraisal, accurate opponent appraisal, careful judgment of distance and running speed of ALL players.
Leverage my strengths against my opponents weakness. Thanks 😎 Dave!
On Being AliveWhen I am talking to my students about awareness, I also point out the other, greater benefit; that there are many more good things in the world than bad, and most people miss them.
By living in Yellow, you get to experience them. A sunset, a shy smile shared between a new couple, a baby's gurgling laugh, the caress of a breeze, the relaxing warmth of the sun's rays soaking into your skin, the perfume of some flowers from upwind.....
Those things happen everyday. But most people live in a little self-made, self-containing bubble that excludes the majority of that thing we call life.
If being 'aware' also clues me in when danger lurks, well, that's a bonus.
:)
A lot of people don't react well to the 'doom and gloom' of being on the look out for bad guys 24/7. I don't blame them. Paranoia is tiring. Being 'Alive' is rejuvenating.
Sharing this with a group that I Admin on fb called: Survive...thrive...stay alive. Thank you for this and other videos.
Dammit I’m in level orange too much. Been spending more time alone in the mountains, it helps. Peace.
Man I love your stuff. It's exactly what an average citizen looking to be a little more competent in self defense and firearms needs. Thanks
Subbed. Thanks so much for sharing. I'm loving your vids.
Thanks man! Share the love.
@@WarriorPoetSociety 🖤
Situational Awareness can also be summarized as the "O.O.D.A" loop:
O - Observation (zone white = relaxed)
O - Orientation (zone yellow = relaxed, but aware - like driving your car)
D - Decision (potential threat = decide what to do before hand when "x" happens)
A - Act (execute your plan of attack or escape to survive encounter)
As always, great video!
Just found your channel. I have to say I am really impressed with your content. Plus you seem like a really cool guy haha. Thanks for the videos man they help a lot!
cool eh? Glad I've got someone fooled!
Thanks for the video! I'm a 17yr old in cali and I love all things tactical.
A good thing to know before I am in the position to be surprised.
Wow! After watching this guy for 9 minutes and thinking, "yeah I know how to be situational aware, I'm so cool" I didn't even notice that he had a gun under the shirt until he actually showed it! Really unexpected!
+SystemsEngineering haha. Glad you had an 'ah ha' moment! Fun stuff
SysEng seriously? I mean, Il give the man some credit that its really hard to hide for a 9 min video when people have nothing else to look at. But that was crazy obvious lol
+The Tomcat but you didn't notice my concealed shotguns... 😉🤙
Or maybe you have a more trained eye, u know. But most 'regular' people won't see it
SysEng how could you miss it?
Absolutely. Situational awareness and escaping/avoiding danger whenever possible is the best self-defense. Once the confrontation starts, all bets are off.
Does the little girl have a machete?! lmao too good
Is he in Africa?
I’ve seen her. No machete, 1911.
@@LeonSteelpaw ahahaha little kids in the US, no concern. Little kids in Africa, they might have an AK under their frock lmao
Excellent vid mam. I used to teach Tae Kwon Do and women's self defense. The first thing I ever told them was BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS. If you are walking out of the grocery store fumbling with your keys and not paying attention to your surroundings you have made yourself a big target for a predator. Predators look for weaknesses because they want an easy prey. They don't want to get hurt trying to obtain that prey. You must think like a predator. Second thing I taught was muscle memory. You do something over and over and even carry out senarios in your mind...you may not do it perfectly but you will do something. I have been out of martial arts for 20 years but every now and then I meet someone coming around a blind corner and I am tensed to act. My body remembers. Good stuff man keep up the good work
I wish someone had really taught me this as a young girl. I remember being 21 and newly married, going to the mall with my husband for a meal and shopping. We had to stop at the ATM to draw money and while he had his back turned I stood a couple feet away from him just waiting quietly and people watching. A group of 6 nigerian guys walk up to me and the leader takes my hand between both of his with a HUGE smile on his face and his other guys cut me off immediately from my 6ft 7 husband who still had his back to me unaware of what was happening. They asked me who I was at the mall with, what my name was and ultimately my freaking age. Every cell in my body was screaming at me that something was off. When I nodded to my husband and they saw this massive guy I was with they instantly dropped the act and moved away, but to this day I freak out when I think about it.
Good video. I was a pastor's usher/bodyguard for several years and have lots of funny (and some not so funny) stories, such as the first-time visiting sketchy guy on the back row who dives into his backpack as I'm behind him moving fast to prevent an attack when he comes up from his backpack holding a big black Bible! My arms over his shoulders became a friendly half-hug... :)
The funny thing is that those that are always in the orange zone mentality tend to look shady themselves.
88% of the time. Smh. Lol
The sad thing is that a lot of the sort of people that attend classes where that chart is even brought up are the sort who are in the orange most of the time because they decide to attend after have some unfortunate brush in with danger (that came from another person). I was met a man who literally told me he was always in the red... 🙄
@@briancline7349 Dang I could never function if I was always in the red.
I have been in and out of security for several years after the military and that is the absolute best analogy I have ever heard thank you so much
Hey man my name is jacob and i am
Shooting instructir from Israel
And i love your work
I see that in your eyes u talk true
Keep doing great job man 🇮🇱🇺🇸💪
What do you think about the USS Liberty incident
Who the hell would give this video a thumbs down??? Great information! Thank you! Just found your channel but I’ve been watching a lot of your videos!
The way I think about condition yellow is like when you are driving a car. Your aware of what the other drivers around you are doing, your not paranoid, or freaking out, and your not expecting anything to happen your just paying attention to what they are doing so you can react in time if somebody does do something stupid. Or say you see someone who is driving drunk, or serving in and out of lanes you see the guy in time you can keep your distance from him, and keep an eye on what he is doing, that would be like condition orange. Red would be if you had to slam on your breaks. Or drive somewhere else, or serve out of the way. White would be if you are texting or just not paying attention, to the road or in the back seat sleeping or looking out the window. Almost everyone lives in a form of condition yellow on some level if they remotely aware of whats going on around them, like looking out where they are going when walking or crossing the street. Your just adding a couple of extra layers to that like looking out for suspicious behavior,. Avoiding potentially dangerous locations where you might in counter a situation where you have to use deadly force, and not sitting with your back to the door when you are in a rest restaurant, and knowing where the exits are.
Very good video, thanks for posting, John. Another aspect of situational awareness that is not talked about too frequently is the fact that it is a natural, albeit suppressed, response to our environment. It was not too long ago in our evolutionary experience that we were considered lunch or dinner to many of the large animals that shared the environment with us.
Because of those tens of thousands of years of not being an apex animal we had developed a very keen sense of our surroundings and any threats that may be hiding within. Modern humans have not lost this ability, but from lack of use and lack of immediate need, it has metamorphosed to become that subtle undefinable feeling that someone is watching you, or the hairs suddenly standing up on the back of your neck without any perceived threat.
If we, as brothers and sisters in arms, become more attuned to these types of feelings and begin to trust in what they are telling you, then we will become much more honed to your environment and would be able to move with much greater ease through the 4 colors of threat perception described in this video.
I love your politically incorrect attitude. political correctness is enforced by the elites but causes everyday people top be victimized.
Political correctness is mind control.
Why do you think so ? Why incorrect ?
I'm offended......by Political Correctness! PC definitely dumbs down the masses!
Political correctness is a war on noticing. For example, we’re not supposed to notice, or even speak of, the truths laid out here: Color of Crime ruclips.net/video/oEPS5ArYaKE/видео.html
Political correctness doesn’t exist (except from politicians duh). We on the left just call it not being a dick. Its not mind control (or it would be controlling your mind, right?) And the elites don’t give a fuck about what you say about disenfranchised people. The people who became rich by exploiting people without power are not conspiring to make you more aware of and compassionate to the people they exploited. They try to keep that from happening.
Back when good police solved crimes, profiling was an art. My wife has been with me for 32 years, 28yrs were in the military. She is a very good threat assessor. She has heard me over and over explaining it.
"Dont do it man dont do it HES GOING FOR IT.. SO AM I!!!" I damn near pissed myself laughing.
man, you're awesome! nobody's gonna get to that pastor! thank you Jesus for people like you!
Law enforcement are also civilians. A lot of people seem to forget this
Nigel Gardener yes I know one of those
Yeah, themselves most of all!
I came across some people training at the range in Albuquerque, NM with WPS shirts and got a little grin and said to myself, self... try to get to know those people. My family and I really appreciate the work you put into teaching us what we need to know to be responsible for our own safety.
Few things make me feel like a dumbass more than turning around in a parking lot, to see somebody a few feet from me that I was unaware of. I at least recognize that this is a bad thing, and I need to do a better job.
I've been guilty of that myself. When you grow up in an environment where looking at someone on the street for a half second too long can cause a big problem, you condition yourself to mind your own business. Im trying to break the habit.
Such a great video. I have alway been a huge believer in situational awareness, unfortunately not as many people these days recognise a possible threat when it comes into their slightly distant or near perimetre. For as example in my line of work I have to always be aware of people around me and be ready for any situation. I tell my staff under me that my position doesn't just require communicating and ordering people around, it's about gauging the situation and making decisions on the go at a moments decision. I suppose it's not until you start to mentor people that they actually see where you are coming from. Thanks John Lovell!
There’s a very similar video to this also on RUclips called ‘ how to shop safely at Walmart’
Wonderful sir. Especially the very last comment about being aware of your environment as a course of action is far more important than being good with a gun, or martial arts/ fighting skills I might add, as most of us can figure out. If you remove a threat by being aware of it ahead of time thereby avoiding it, it's much easier and safer.
another great video! Keep them coming... but not at the expense of your recharge time
+Tim Hendricks 👍
@@WarriorPoetSociety 🌿🦅
This really brings back memories of my childhood. I grew up around extreme violence and became very good at reading people and they're danger level. unfortunately I have lost a lot of this ability as a adult. Sometimes wish I had it back.
“Does she have a machete?” It’s like he saw a frozen 2 headline
I love how you do your video, then seem to get through better, at least to me. I don't feel like I have a drill instructor screaming at me again Iol. But you made me realize something, I'm always watching people. One of the habits of being a truck driver, but I have noticed almost all truck driver look in one way or another like you described here. No wonder people don't talk to us lol. Thanks man another great video
I see "sketch dudes" every time I go to the grocery store!
I realized it is good to do this about two or three years ago and have been situationally aware as much as possible, life is good.
I live in Cali where most of y'all know that a CCP is impossible to get. Every time I walk or go to any public place, even school I'm hypervigilant. Now the question is; Do I become a criminal so I can protect myself? Or am I just simply at the mercy of campus police? Either way, shit is fucked here in cali.
Move to Texas. Now
Some good info for the common person and how to profile. He's spot on when it comes to picking out the potential threatening details in a public environment and ignoring the non-threatening details.
"Grow a brain & profile." LOVE It!
Great video! So happy to finally see a video about being aware and not getting paranoid.
I was stabbed by a mugger at night in a bad neighborhood, my situational awareness was shoddy. Looking overing my shoulder has increased 80%.
Also, you bringing up the 12 year old with a machete really makes the 13 year old involved in a machete brawl outside a Frozen 2 screening ironic.
I love some of the commentary about personal experiences around this topic. I had the situational awareness cap on before I joined the Army, and it got better with training. My Spidey-Sense saved me on 2 occasions in very similar fashion to Field Strip's experience. Them knowing that you know changes things a lot. Eyballing my nemisis and preserving a personal perimeter with cover and escape, intimidated my opponent's will to execute. Problem stopped before it began.😇👍