How do you improve situational awareness?
- Thread starter hi-impact
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And if you live like some are talking about it is not a good way to live.
old lady new shooter
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In the "culture" of certain violent urban groups, someone looking at you is considered a reason to shoot them. Just saying.
patmccoy
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Practice is the key, just as in marksmanship. EVERY time you go somewhere, practice situational awareness, even if you are in familiar surroundings (school, church, grocery store, etc). Make it a habit, by doing it on a conscious basis for a minimum of thirty days.
Deaf Smith
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Keep from being distracted. Cell phones, walkmans, reading news papers, etc.. while away from home IS detracting. Use them only when absolutely necessary. You know, heads up and TAKE IN THE SURROUNDINGS. You might even enjoy it.
Deaf
Not paying attention in the city will get you hurt much quicker, IME. I've looked many a goon in the eye, and when they looked in my eyes,
they saw an end to the party as they know it, so they left me alone. You don't have to have a staring contest, but let them know you know
who they are, and let them know who you are. If you want to be an Ostrich, stay out of the city.
Old Dog
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Gosh, you must be one bad-*** lookin' dude. Seriously, you want to mean-mug those "goons" and you'll be having a lot of confrontations that don't end particularly well for either party. (Unless you work in a prison) I've looked many a goon in the eye myself, and when they looked in my eyes, they saw an old white guy with a keen sense of humor ...
We all seem to think we're tough guys, but avoiding areas where we're encountering those "goons" or otherwise needing to watch people "on and off work" probably is what should be our normal routine. Don't know where some of y'all live, but, really, situational awareness shouldn't be something that we need to overthink like this.
Most of the time what we call "lack of awareness" has a lot more to do with choices we make about what we're going to concentrate on as well as expectation of what is going to happen (or more specifically expectation of what is NOT going to happen) than it does with the absence of some special quality, lack of concentration, or the lack of proper awareness training.
Lack of awareness is the decision that what is going on around you is less important than whatever it is you are going to concentrate on instead. We see this all the time with drivers who are concentrating on something inside the car instead of on what's going on outside the car. It's very unlikely that anything inside the car will kill them, but it is quite likely that there are circumstances outside the car which could easily result in death.
It's not that they're unable to pay attention to their surroundings. It's not that they don't "intellectually" understand about the danger of car wrecks. It's not that they are simply "lacking awareness", it's that they've chosen not to process what's going on outside the car because they prefer to concentrate on something else. They've managed to convince themselves that nothing bad will happen while they focus on whatever it is that they believe is important/entertaining.
People who have created a "reality" for themselves that includes the fundamental assumption that nothing bad is going to happen to them, dismiss much (most?) of what is going on around them as being unimportant. Because their "reality" doesn't include the possibility of danger, they don't process their surroundings in a useful way and when things do go haywire, they are surprised. They have to waste time trying to convince themselves that something is wrong instead of actually being able to do something constructive.
That doesn't mean that to be aware you have to constantly expect bad things will happen or that you have to constantly keep looking around for danger. It just means you need to keep in mind that there's the possibility that all might not go smoothly at all times. That mindset, some attention to your instincts, and a little common sense is all you need.
Lack of awareness is the decision that what is going on around you is less important than whatever it is you are going to concentrate on instead. We see this all the time with drivers who are concentrating on something inside the car instead of on what's going on outside the car. It's very unlikely that anything inside the car will kill them, but it is quite likely that there are circumstances outside the car which could easily result in death.
It's not that they're unable to pay attention to their surroundings. It's not that they don't "intellectually" understand about the danger of car wrecks. It's not that they are simply "lacking awareness", it's that they've chosen not to process what's going on outside the car because they prefer to concentrate on something else. They've managed to convince themselves that nothing bad will happen while they focus on whatever it is that they believe is important/entertaining.
People who have created a "reality" for themselves that includes the fundamental assumption that nothing bad is going to happen to them, dismiss much (most?) of what is going on around them as being unimportant. Because their "reality" doesn't include the possibility of danger, they don't process their surroundings in a useful way and when things do go haywire, they are surprised. They have to waste time trying to convince themselves that something is wrong instead of actually being able to do something constructive.
That doesn't mean that to be aware you have to constantly expect bad things will happen or that you have to constantly keep looking around for danger. It just means you need to keep in mind that there's the possibility that all might not go smoothly at all times. That mindset, some attention to your instincts, and a little common sense is all you need.
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old lady new shooter
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I am an old lady under 5'1" with medical issues that make me look a little stupid, I don't think any "goons" are going to be afraid of me based on my appearance.
You are probably considerably younger, larger and stronger than I, and almost certainly male. If there is only one "goon" your technique might work. If there are several together the outcome might be different.
In the world of gangs, looking at someone is considered a valid reason to shoot the one looking. Personally I don't frequent gang areas. I posted what I did as a warning to participants here who are not familiar with gang "culture" who might follow the advice previously proffered.
That said, if someone in my vicinity is behaving in a manner that appears possibly dangerous, I will keep my eyes on him or her until I am somewhere safe, as well as taking other appropriate action such as keeping something between myself and them.
JohnKSa, very well said.
Danoobie and old lady new shooter, you both have valid points, regarding whether to look/stare at someone or not.
I will do both depending upon the situation. In general I will not stare at someone unless they are approaching me and getting within my comfort zone. If they get too close to me, I will stare confidently, not aggressively, to show them I'm aware and prepared to do whatever is necessary and appropriate. If there are 2 or more people, then the dynamics change because I'm outnumbered and will try not to look too much, but still being aware and constantly scanning my surroundings.
Bottom line, always pay attention to what's going on around you and look/stare if the situation calls for it, but don't look like a person that is aggressive looking for trouble, but instead look like a person that is very aware and prepared.
Danoobie and old lady new shooter, you both have valid points, regarding whether to look/stare at someone or not.
I will do both depending upon the situation. In general I will not stare at someone unless they are approaching me and getting within my comfort zone. If they get too close to me, I will stare confidently, not aggressively, to show them I'm aware and prepared to do whatever is necessary and appropriate. If there are 2 or more people, then the dynamics change because I'm outnumbered and will try not to look too much, but still being aware and constantly scanning my surroundings.
Bottom line, always pay attention to what's going on around you and look/stare if the situation calls for it, but don't look like a person that is aggressive looking for trouble, but instead look like a person that is very aware and prepared.
There are a great many "internet experts" out there and your point is very valid. The poster you quoted just has not been in the instance to get his a** handed to him. And if you think you are aware of what is going on around you....trust me you very likely are not....That pre teen girl over there that you wrote off will run up to you and shank you quicker then you can say anything....and if you are lucky you will be laying on the street looking at your teeth wondering what happened while the fire truck is on the way to wash your blood off the street.....but that truck is not coming in yet because law enforcement is not there yet to "secure" the scene. Medics will not go where they think they will get shot at....that is the cops job....and they will just sit there and wait for the all clear while you bleed to death, you are not worth the chance the medic will not go home to their family at the end of the shift.
Being aware is very different from being not. IMHO for you, and really anyone, if you are up and looking around....just not your nose in your purse looking for your keys, or nose in your cellphone you are less likely to be targeted for a crime.
Crooks are just stupid....they will spend hours tearing the crap out of something to get $10 worth of copper, and not spend that same 4 hours just working....they would get more in the end....they are lazy, and want it easy (most of the time)
Be aware, but live life....have some fun....if you can't do that, you need to move to the middle of nowhere and hope the feds don't think you are a total nut job.
Armored farmer
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I made it a habit to locate the exits and fire extinguisher in restaurants or crowded buildings.
When staying in a hotel, I try to count the doors to the fire extinguisher and exit.
I always have a small flashlight in my pocket. Everything is easier when you can see.
I'm a volunteer fireman in our Rural community. We get called out for anything from burning building to cars washed off the road in flood water to missing persons. I keep a good rope, a big fire extinguisher, a life vest, a blanket, a shovel, two lights, and a good first aid kit in my truck.
When staying in a hotel, I try to count the doors to the fire extinguisher and exit.
I always have a small flashlight in my pocket. Everything is easier when you can see.
I'm a volunteer fireman in our Rural community. We get called out for anything from burning building to cars washed off the road in flood water to missing persons. I keep a good rope, a big fire extinguisher, a life vest, a blanket, a shovel, two lights, and a good first aid kit in my truck.
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9MMare
Member
Yeah...no. And I'm not willing to bet my life on that assumption. Some are smash & grab tweakers.
Others are predators well aware of the advantages of observation, surprise, and ambush. Most are smart enough to do some assessment and not strike unless they believe they have the advantage...it's the way of all predatory animals, not unusual at all.
I dont like people enough to 'people watch' but I do enjoy the challenge of assessing my current locale for weaknesses and strengths when bored, like standing in line or shopping. Gotta occupy my mind somehow.
9MMare
Member
I'm tall and from years of foot patrol as a park ranger, I walk fast and with purpose. I'm obviously observant, in a general non-threatening but alert way. If you want to catch up with me, it will be noticeable, Trying to ask for change as I go by? You'll be lucky to get a few words out before I'm gone.
Trunk Monkey
member
Interesting, I've also looked "many a goon in the eye". The responses have been varied;
I've had them look right back and dare me to shoot them.
I've had them initiate the contact by informing me of their intent to "knock me on my ass and take that damn gun". (I was actually in uniform when that happened but I haven't open carried outside of work since)
I had a crack head buck up on me one morning to the point I had my hand on my gun prepatory to drawing it and had him telling me I needed to "Watch the F out Dawg."
Now by the grace of God these "goons" backed down and none of the them actually attacked me but I don't believe for a second that you've sent "many a goon" slinking into the night with nothing more than your steely gaze. You just haven't run into the "goon"who's going to take one look at you and ask *** you're looking at and decide to give you an Educational Beatdown. (Google it)
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Old Dog
Member
Pretty much what I was also trying to say there, TM.
Back in my younger days, when my steely gaze didn't work on an even younger, bigger goon ... I pulled my PR-24 (my only less-lethal option at the time besides a tiny canister of actual Mace that was never very effective) out and the goon informed me that he was going to place my baton, side-handle and all, up the nether portion of my anatomy. Alas, I construed that as a threat and was thence forced to draw my lethal option, which all was a clear indicator that (1) my situational awareness had totally failed and (2) regardless of whether the goon saw an end to the party as he knew it, he simply didn't care ...
Back in my younger days, when my steely gaze didn't work on an even younger, bigger goon ... I pulled my PR-24 (my only less-lethal option at the time besides a tiny canister of actual Mace that was never very effective) out and the goon informed me that he was going to place my baton, side-handle and all, up the nether portion of my anatomy. Alas, I construed that as a threat and was thence forced to draw my lethal option, which all was a clear indicator that (1) my situational awareness had totally failed and (2) regardless of whether the goon saw an end to the party as he knew it, he simply didn't care ...
old lady new shooter
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Ironicaintit
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I'm usually pretty alert. I don't even have a smart phone, and I don't listen to music while out and about. its good mental exercise too, to know your exits, and just kindof mentally catalog people and things. don't get boxed in!
its real easy to do, and you need not have a paranoid siege mentality to do it.
my boy and I will be in stores and practice being "ninja", and try to get as close to mommy as we can without being seen, and also play "I spy" where he has to guess what it is I'm looking at (and vice versa)
its good exercise for staying aware of what all is around you, and how to move through it.
it hasn't happened often, but I have held eye contact with potential hooligans, because I wasn't sure of their nature or intent, but was also unafraid.
I usually have a smile on my goofy mug, and when the timing seemed right, I said, "good morning!"
that totally diffused any tension. ive been lucky, I think
its real easy to do, and you need not have a paranoid siege mentality to do it.
my boy and I will be in stores and practice being "ninja", and try to get as close to mommy as we can without being seen, and also play "I spy" where he has to guess what it is I'm looking at (and vice versa)
its good exercise for staying aware of what all is around you, and how to move through it.
it hasn't happened often, but I have held eye contact with potential hooligans, because I wasn't sure of their nature or intent, but was also unafraid.
I usually have a smile on my goofy mug, and when the timing seemed right, I said, "good morning!"
that totally diffused any tension. ive been lucky, I think
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We had a saying-"If you go looking for trouble, you will find it. " Meant be sensible, just because you look somebody
in the eye, doesn't mean hunt down every gang-banger in a 20 mile radius, and engage in eye sex with them. In the normal course
of the normal day, doing normal things, and getting back home, if you run into a lot of folks who would rather kill you than look at you,
the advice here is useless. You need to move, or figure out a better overall plan than simply " improving situational awareness".
If they just want your stuff, they want to take it as quick and easy as possible. So they can move on to the next thing.
There are those that will just hurt you to hurt you....knock out game comes to mind. But I am talking about a guy with his "whits" about him.
Berger.Fan222
Member
Lots of great suggestions. Let me add:
Check the crime maps before you go. There are a lot of places I don't go, because the crime rates are simply too high in those neighborhoods. Sure, my situational awareness will often catch that I am in a creepy place on the first visit, but often checking the crime maps lets me know of a real problem without the first visit. Some places I don't go at all. Others, I don't go at night and make sure I'm out of dodge by nightfall. Others I only go with a pretty good posse of guys.
Don't drink when out and about. Alcohol impairs observation, process, and reaction times. Other drugs do also. Know the effects and keep yourself at home or in very safe places when you are impaired.
Don't be the only sheepdog in your group. Those I hang out with most also have considerable tactical training and practice high levels of situational awareness. Talk about important things that you see, especially predators.
Move when you see a problem. We get out of dodge as soon as we see a drug deal or other criminal activity, or even people above a certain level of creepy.
Check the crime maps before you go. There are a lot of places I don't go, because the crime rates are simply too high in those neighborhoods. Sure, my situational awareness will often catch that I am in a creepy place on the first visit, but often checking the crime maps lets me know of a real problem without the first visit. Some places I don't go at all. Others, I don't go at night and make sure I'm out of dodge by nightfall. Others I only go with a pretty good posse of guys.
Don't drink when out and about. Alcohol impairs observation, process, and reaction times. Other drugs do also. Know the effects and keep yourself at home or in very safe places when you are impaired.
Don't be the only sheepdog in your group. Those I hang out with most also have considerable tactical training and practice high levels of situational awareness. Talk about important things that you see, especially predators.
Move when you see a problem. We get out of dodge as soon as we see a drug deal or other criminal activity, or even people above a certain level of creepy.
old lady new shooter
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To the extent that this is true, I think it is because the salient characteristic of most street criminals is impulsiveness and the inability to delay gratification... so if they walk out their door and see somebody they think they can mug for $40, they will do that rather than go to another neighborhood where they might get $100.
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