Time and Space

More space equals more time equals more opportunity to react.  The opposite is also true.  Less space equals less time and less opportunity.  As a Concealed Carry Protector (Our new term for people who have trained under Firearm Mentor).  This blog will discuss how you can create and control the reactionary gap affording you a tactical advantage when bad things happen.

Your sensory input confirms gunfire.  Orient yourself to the direction of gunfire, identify the impact area, and react.  Crowded public areas are attractive targets for mass shooters, predators, and lunatics.  Several proactive measures can be taken if you are attending a large public gathering (shopping mall, concert, carnival):

• • Don’t go.  This is simple and easy.  You can’t be a victim if you are not there (100% of the time).  This isn’t realistic or practical, though.
  • Position yourself and those with you to the nearest exit point.  The ability to use cover when egressing from an impact area is relative to your distance from the exit.
  • Should you need to be fast and mobile (like during sniper fire at the Highland Park July 4 Parade shooting), you will need to move as quickly as you are able.  Physical disabilities, injuries and restrictive clothing (high heels, flip flops, super tight clothing) can hamper your speed.  It is recommended that you wear footwear and clothing that will allow you to run at least 500 yards across a parking lot, through traffic, a train station or large shopping mall.
  • It is a good idea to always have a complete bleeding/gunshot wound (GSW) trauma kit (including a tourniquet) on hand.  Stopping blood loss is one of the most important steps you can take in treating a gunshot, shrapnel or edged weapon injury.

Creating more space between yourself and the shooter makes you a smaller target.  Staying mobile makes you a moving target and utilizing good cover (hiding behind an object that will stop a bullet) makes it much more difficult to be shot.

DISCLAIMER

This publication is designed to provide the authors’ beliefs and opinions in regard to the subject matter covered, with the understanding that neither the authors nor the publisher are engaged in rendering professional psychological, legal, or political services through the dissemination of this publication.

If you need expert legal assistance or counseling, you should seek the services of a competent professional.

The Melnick Conglomerate, Firearm Mentor, and Marcus Melnick are not responsible for mishaps of any kind which may occur from use of published firearms information, equipment recommendations, tactics and training advice, or recommendations by staff or contributing writers.

Carrying a concealed weapon can be very dangerous if you are not well trained and familiar with the weapon you carry; therefore, you should consult with an attorney before making the decision to purchase and carry a weapon. It is your responsibility as an armed citizen to decide how much training you need.