Things I Learned From Vegas Shooting
I recently went all over the internet to read and listen to eye-witness accounts of those who were at the concert in Vegas when shots rang out. My thoughts and prayers still go out to the families and friends of those murdered and injured.
In reviewing these accounts I learned a few things I’d like to share here.
1.When in a crowd, no matter where or what, know where your exits are. You must know what you consider your primary route to that exit and a secondary route and exit. This exit should not be your entrance, although your entrance can be your 3rd or 4th exit. Most people in a panic will run toward the place where they came into the building simply because they have not taken note of any other entrances or exits. Sometimes they will pass an exit to get to the spot where they came in. This is why taking note of exits, any exits, is important. The reason I say any exits is sometimes there are exits not readily available to the public such as backstage exits, or personnel exits. Don’t let fences, barriers, vehicles, or even windows stop you from a fast egress from a dangerous situation. But make sure you know these are exits, which means doing a little homework on the building or event location.
2. One thing that I’ve bothered my family with for years is how you dress. Modesty is important to me but even more important is utility. If you are in a place where there are a lot of people, such as an airport, you may need to move quickly. Is it easy to run in flip flops? What if you have to walk a long distance, would your foot-ware tire you out? What if your long walk or run was through high weeds or alleys? Would your shorts be the best clothing? Comfortable shoes you can run in, long pants and maybe even a long sleeved shirt might serve you well in a unforeseen situation. Carry ID, cash, keys, phone, credit cards, a knife or blade if possible. You may not get back to your car or hotel room or home for some time. What you carry may be it for a while. Don’t be a “refugee” but someone ready for whatever comes their way. Coats, gloves, rain gear, or a hat are also a plus in inclement weather.
3. Flashlights are indispensable. Many of these shootings have happened at night or in the dark of a theater, or a night club. A light can save you by showing you where real cover is, where concealment is, or show you the path to an exit. Moving in darkness can be dangerous and fruitless. I’ve carried a flashlight for years and often it gets more use than my multi-tool.
4. Situational awareness is always so important wherever you are. I’m not saying you have to be in Orange all the time, but at least Yellow! Too many times we get too relaxed and we slip into White and are totally unprepared. Being aware can keep you from being hit by a vehicle, whether the driver is intentionally or unintentionally, careening toward you in a crowd of people. If you are so inclined or have the opportunity, find out what gunshots really sound like. Too many witnesses say “I thought it was fireworks…” when they should have been moving toward an exit or cover. Learn to identify a muzzle flash too. Also, learn what cover really is. Too many people think a car door will stop a bullet. You can relax and enjoy yourself without going stupid and being in White. (Referring to the Cooper color code) When you are aware make sure it is 720 degrees. That is all around you and up and down too. In the case of Vegas, the danger was coming from above.
5. Be armed all the time everywhere. Be legal, but be armed. In the case of the Vegas shooter returning fire was not a good idea. I’m not sure of distance involved and you’d hate to hit short and hurt or kill someone else. But in most cases, evil shooters cower in the face of return fire or better yet, kill themselves. These people are not soldiers, they are generally cowards. Being armed is not easy. It takes time, money, and work. But being able to defend yourself is truly priceless. If I can’t carry a gun I’ll have a blade, tactical pen, and other legal defense weapons.
6. Medical knowledge and med kits are invaluable. Some people carry in their EDC a battle dressing or a tourniquet or both. These type of things are essential in a mass shooting situation. Get some good training from a medic or an EMT. Someone who deals with emergency medicine. Most medical professionals are tied to a hospital or ambulance filled with supplies and equipment and communication gear. If you learn the basics of using tourniquets and compression bandages. Often what you really need are blood stoppers. Having a good stocked first aid kit in all your vehicles is a must. The average first aid kit from Walmart is not very good. It is better than nothing though. I recommend you make your own and include 10 to 15 surgical pads. I stopped at a car accident once and needed more than the 4 pads I had in my kit.
In summary going out in this world can be dangerous. We are no longer safe from wackos or terrorists. We can be better prepared. Most of us think we are different than war-torn countries but that is an illusion. Our world can be turned upside down in a second. Being in a large crowd is not advised but don’t become paranoid and never go to a football game or a concert again. Use your head. Try to sit near an exit if possible. Do the same in restaurants. If we’re careful we can minimize being caught in a dangerous situation. If all of us did the above six steps we could make a difference and be an asset if something goes down.
Stay safe!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
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