Or to a church, or school, or temple, or mall, or restaurant, or . . . ?
It has happened in all these locations in recent times. Some predators have targeted specific groups, such as the most recent massacre at the Sikh Temple in Oak Creek, WI. Others, like the Aurora murderer, just like to spray randomly.
As we know, public venue attacks, murders, and massacres have happened in Knoxville's Central High School, Knoxville Center Mall, and the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. Don't forget the cashier murdered at the S&S Cafeteria or the Radio Shack murder in Farragut.
These tragedies are recalled simply to remind us that not only could they happen here, they have happened here!
So, how should one prepare for that time when the unthinkable happens while hoping and praying that it doesn't?
1. Read Principles of Personal Defense by Jeff Cooper.
2. Learn Cooper's Color Codes. As I covered in Party Crashers, Cooper wrote in his Fireworks: Essays and Fiction:
Condition White is a normal, non-combative state of mind...We do not expect trouble... If we are attacked when in Condition White, we will be completely surprised, and we will probably die.
Condition Yellow is a state of relaxed alertness. It must always be assumed whenever we wear a gun...We know what is behind us...The policeman, on duty, is always on yellow - except when he on Orange or Red...He is not completely safe, but he is much safer than on white.
Condition Orange is a state of alarm. In Orange we have reason to believe that a fight is likely...
Condition Red is that of defensive combat. In Condition Red, if you see a deadly threat, you shoot..."All systems are GO." A policeman usually enters a tactical situation in Orange, and shifts to Red when he is shot at.
3. Understand that trouble can find you wherever you are, but don't go where you shouldn't.
4. Learn to shoot, arm yourself, get a carry permit, and carry your handgun everywhere it is not prohibited. This may mean avoiding some venues.
5.Come to grips with the notion that the police just won't get there in time!
Do you love your family enough to do all this? Will you choose to take care of you and yours?
Or, will you choose to be unarmed and helpless?
-------------------------------------------
A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions.
The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences. Proverbs 22:3 (NLT)
Disclaimer: The information and ideas presented in this column are provided for informational purposes only. Firearms, like cars, kitchen knives and life itself all can be dangerous. You should get professional training as part of any plan to use firearms for any purpose. I have made a reasonable, good-faith effort to assure that the content of this column is accurate. I have no control over what you do, and specifically accept no responsibility for anything you do as a result of reading my columns. Any action or lack of action on your part is strictly your responsibility.
Comments