Whether you carry concealed daily or simply want to stay safe when you’re out and about, situational awareness is critical. Being aware of your surroundings is not just a one-time lesson. Instead, it’s something that you must practice daily until it becomes second nature.
In today’s modern world, it seems like there are infinite things that can disrupt your situational awareness, but knowing the most common distractions is the first step to overcoming them.
Electronics
How many smart devices do you have on yourself at any given time? Depending on how much of a techie you are, you could be wearing a smartwatch, have a Bluetooth earpiece in, have your phone in your pocket, and have even more types of wearable tech in your vehicle. These are all great ways to stay informed and keep in touch on the go, but they are also some of the leading things that can disrupt your situational awareness.
A recent study found that the average American checks their phone over 96 times a day, or once every 10 minutes they’re awake. Some of those are just checking the time, but many of them involve distractions like flipping through notifications, watching a quick video, or responding to a text message. These distractions can be detrimental in public when they prevent you from paying attention.
Alcohol
There is nothing wrong with being an adult and enjoying an adult beverage. However, when you are mixing alcohol and firearms, it is a recipe for disaster. Even if you have a high tolerance for alcohol and are confident in your ability to keep a cool head, any level of intoxication is one of the most dangerous things that can disrupt your situational awareness.
Because alcohol is a depressant, it can stop you from being able to understand and accurately gauge what is happening around you. Reaction times will be slower, and you may not notice things that you would otherwise see. Additionally, in the state of Maryland, you cannot carry a firearm when you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Positioning
Where you are sitting or standing could impact how situationally aware you can be. Mirrors, walls, columns, and other architectural and landscaping features can all make it harder for you to tell whether or not there is a risk. This can be mitigated by choosing a seat in a part of the room that faces the entrance or exit. As you enter any new space, take time to identify exits and potential escape routes.
Beyond your physical positioning in the room, you should also consider observing the people around you. Is there anything that is out of the norm? For example, is someone wearing significantly more clothing than you might expect for the temperature or time of year? Something like a large, bulky jacket and long pants in the summer would be a red flag. Keep an eye on any suspicious persons or things that are not what you might expect, and position yourself accordingly.
Soteria Training Academy Helps You Prepare for the Things That Can Disrupt Your Situational Awareness
Soteria Training Academy helps ensure that you consistently build your skills so that you’re excited for your range sessions. Contact us today by visiting our website, or call us at (410) 216-3176 to learn more.