civilian75
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In times like this, never hurts to go over the basics. From The Oregon Washington County Sheriff Office:
One way we process tragic events like the Newtown, Connecticut school or the Clackamas Town Center shootings, is to run through the scenario in our heads. How would we react, what would we do, what if my family is with me? Planning and thinking through various situations is a healthy way to give yourself peace of mind and to live safer.
Drivers learn and practice driving on icy roads. Businesses have fire or evacuation drills. It is the same if you carry concealed - have a plan and practice. If you have a plan, improve it. If you don't, start today. Here is a list of some considerations from our firearms experts to get you thinking:
If at all possible, have someone call 9-1-1 immediately.
Can you assess your situation accurately? How many shooters are there? Are you in a position of tactical advantage or are you already cornered? If possible, choose a position behind an object or structure that both conceals your location and provides a barrier before engaging the shooter. If the shooter comes to you, you may have to take immediate action.
We know a shooter's field of vision will narrow to some degree, often to pin-point vision. They may lose the ability to see peripherally and suffer diminished hearing. They could feel like they are in slow motion. This may also happen to you, depending on your experience.
Finally, and this is the toughest part of the plan, are you prepared to take the shooter's life to save the lives of others? The shooter has already made the decision to kill people. Have you ever considered this scenario? Is it part of your mental plan?
If you do take action and are able to successfully engage the shooter, you need to understand that you are now presenting an armed, unknown threat to responding law enforcement. If you continue to display your weapon, when police encounter you there are only fractions of a second when life or death decisions are made. After you successfully engage a shooter, our trainers recommend you ensure your empty hands are plainly visible. Either re-holster or put your gun down depending upon the environment, situation, and proximity of police.
It is highly unlikely that you will ever find yourself involved in an active shooter situation; however, if you do, and you have a CHL, it is good to be prepared. It's like putting that spare tire and some extra emergency items in the trunk of your car before a long trip. You never know when you may need it, but you will have it just in case.
Practice regularly with the gun you carry. Practice regularly drawing from a concealed carry position using the holster you will be wearing. Practice until you are proficient with your gear. Be aware of your surroundings. Have a plan.
Sheriff's Office News Carry - Your Questions Answered