Circuit Magazine #35

News

Reviews

Opinion

Exclusives

Intel

Think Like A Criminal

TROUBLE AHEAD

The Mosul Offensive

SURVIVING SUDDEN VIOLENCE Safety At The Airport

Psychological Injury • Church Security • Unusual Politics

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

CONTENTS 06

04: Editor Forewords

06: Be Streetwise Think Like a Criminal!

16: Task, Threat & Environment The Mindset Of Protective Services

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19: Trouble Ahead 27: First Aid For A Psychological Injury 32: The Art Of Being An Independent Learner 38: The Great Escape

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44: Church Security The New Frontier 50: Keeping Your Edge Politics as Un-usual

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54: Surviving Sudden Violence: Enhancing Your Safety and Survival at the Airport 63: Classifieds

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

Uk Foreword

Welcome to another action packed issue of the leading magazine for security professionals, anywhere in the world!

Since the last issue of the magazine it was great to be in attendance at the 2nd Annual CP Technology forum hosted by CTG Intelligence and supported by the British Bodyguard Association. It was another fantastic event which helped open my eyes to some of the new advancing technology that can be utilised within the security sector.

The event illustrated how technology continues to evolve at lightning pace.

It was great to be brought up to speed with some of these advances, however it did hit home that while advancing technology can aid us in our roles as protection specialists, this same technology is available to those wishing to do us harm. My personal thoughts on technology are that whilst I feel it needs to be harnessed it should not be wholly relied upon, it should be seen as an enabler used to aid us in providing better more streamlined solutions to our clients/ principals. Certainly, it should not be thought of as the ‘be all’ and ‘end all’ of any security solution and good old fashion skills should still be practiced so that they may be called upon in the event that technology fails.

I am now looking forward to what further events can be added to the diary for the remainder of the year.

Networking events are great for meeting people, gaining information and getting yourself out there keeping your finger on the pulse, if you don’t poke your head above the parapet you will never know what is going on outside.

If you are a newcomer to the magazine or even if you’re one of our regular readers, we ask you kindly to please let your friends and colleagues, serving in the industry, know about it. The magazine and its contributors need your continued support to keep the magazine alive, and bringing you the best features and articles available. All of our contributors are experienced professionals who take the time out of their busy schedules to pass on their knowledge and lessons learnt within the industry for the benefit of others. So, I ask you all to get behind them and continue your valued support for what they’re doing.

From all of us here at the Circuit Magazine we would like to wish you a fantastic 2017 and thank you for all of the support shown over the years, wherever you are make sure that you make 2017 your year!

Shaun West Editor

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EDITOR FOREWORDS

US Foreword Welcome to the latest issue of The Circuit – The Magazine for the Close Protection Professional. I think it’s important to always put the full tagline in when I intro the magazine, and it’s that last word that is key for me, -- PROFESSIONAL.

I bring that up now, because in the United States we are on the other side of a pretty controversial Presidential Election with the new Commander in Chief just over a week in office.

Unless you are living under a rock in Siberia you know that I am not over exaggerating that our new President is a lightning rod of controversy. Everyone has an opinion on him and few, if any, are neutral. Nowhere is that more apparent than on social media, where you will find one side or the other starkly divided on the pros and cons of his actions and/or personality.

The reason I’m speaking about it here, is that those same divisions are also apparent in the executive protection community.

When I visit the chat boards and discussion groups, a few of which I moderate, I see some people draw some pretty clear lines in the sand. In and of itself that is fine, however a Protector having an extreme viewpoint as it relates to a political entity

or party can invite that same extreme counterpoint and that’s where I start to see the breakdown in professionalism.

When someone asks me the top 5 skills a Protector should have, “communication” is always on that list, if you can’t communicate you can’t get your point across and you won’t hear the others. Sometimes words – and the understanding of them, are all that stand between success and failure on an assignment. It is because of that, that we should choose our worlds carefully and make sure they are clearly understood.

Words paint pictures, and at times we should step back and say, “what’s the picture of me look like to someone else?” My hope is that The Circuit paints an accurate picture of our industry and that we keep that last word in our tagline at the forefront of our minds.

Elijah Shaw US Editor

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

Be Streetwise & Think Like a Criminal!

By: Orlando Wilson

When people come to me for tactical pistol training I tend to ask them why they want to do the class and carry a handgun. The responses I get are usually the same-to protect themselves and their families, to defend themselves, etc.

Then I ask my clients why the bad guys carry guns and the responses are usually the same again: to kill us and harm us. From my clients’ responses it’s easy to see who the wolves are and who the sheep are! I tell my clients there is one reason they are carrying a gun and that is to kill people and if that is not their reason then don’t carry the gun.

One thing that needs to be avoided is thinking that a gun will make you a tough guy. I have come across many men for who think

carrying a gun is a status symbol. Somehow it reenforces their masculinity.

But in fact, gun is a tool.

The same as a hammer, which can be just as deadly as a gun. If you need a gun to give you confidence, you have problems because that confidence is false confidence and can get you into situations that are beyond your limitations.

Guns are tools that need to be respected, not something to hide behind or bolster your ego with!

To me tactical shooting is not a sport. It’s about

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BE STREETWISE AND THINK LIKE A CRIMINAL!

staying alive and killing your opponent as quickly as possible. If you are in a situation where someone is trying to kill you, your family or your team members you must kill them first. Unfortunately, its as simple as that sometimes. Political correctness does not enter into it. We are talking about your life and death not banning super size sodas or gay marriage. For most people the thought of killing someone and the legal ramifications are a nightmare, but you’re better off dealing with the aftermath than being dead.

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If you are unfortunate enough to be involved in a hostile situation, your actions must be instinctive and aggressive.

However, aggression must be controlled and turned off when the threat is over. Teaching controlled aggression to civilians and first world police can be difficult. Professional militaries achieve it with strenuous training and strict discipline; both of which seem to be lacking in modern society in general.

There is a lot more to tactical shooting than just shooting. Being a good shot

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 is just part of what it takes to stay alive. One story that came out of Latin America was of a top competition shooter who was driving to work one day when two kids on a motorcycle pulled up next to him while he was stuck in traffic. The kid on the back of the bike had a revolver and asked the competition shooter at gun point for his wallet, he complied. As he was handing over the wallet he went for a Walther PPK on his ankle, the kids saw the gun and shot and killed him.

Who was the better shot that day, the trained or the wise?

anything to do with your personal security. If you are trying to impress someone use a cover story.

• Always have an escape route: Make sure you know how and have the means to get out of your location to a safe area.

Know how to get out of the hotel and have the means to get out of the city, and then possibly the country and you know how to get to a safe location.

Use of force is a last resort and should be avoided at all costs. Fighting is for amateurs. You want to I tell my clients that the do everything possible three golden rules to to identify and avoid personal security are: 1) any potentially hostile think like a criminal, 2) keep situations. Unlike the a low profile and 3) always movies, street fights are not have an escape route. glamorous and when guns are involved people are • Think like a criminal: Put going to be killed, maimed, yourself in the criminal’s or paralyzed. In reality, shoes and think how someone will be going to you would rob or kidnap the hospital or the morgue yourself. How would you and in most places others break into your home or will be going to jail. You hotel room? must never use excessive • Keep a low profile: Do not force against the person draw attention to yourself, who is attacking you. The consider what you wear level of force you use you and drive. Don’t be loud must be appropriate to the and rowdy. And don’t force being used against tell strangers too much you. When defending about yourself, especially yourself you must always

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BE STREETWISE AND THINK LIKE A CRIMINAL! be able to justify that the use of force was necessary.

The laws on the use of force vary greatly from area to area. Do your research, knowing the law is all part of an efficient personal defense program.

You need to have confidence in your ability to be able to handle hostile situations.

Over the years I have had students come to my classes who have been through self-defense and tactical programs and told how they can avoid becoming victims or potential victims and how they can respond to attacks against them. To me, these people were already being placed at a severe disadvantage by being told they were a potential victim.

You are only a victim if you let yourself be. You need a positive attitude. Why

should you be afraid of some scum bag that tries to intimidate, bully and rob people for a living.

What a lot of people forget is that when a criminal is going to commit a crime they are going to be scared; they are breaking the law and can get arrested, beaten up or shot in the process. Criminals look for easy targets; they don’t want problems as they are bad for business. Remember if you are going to be scared and nervous so are your attackers. Your attitude needs to be that with the knowledge and ability you have you can stop anyone who wants to mess with you, your clients or your family. The criminal made the mistake of starting the fight with you and they are going to lose, that’s it!

Use of force is a last resort and should be avoided at all costs, fighting is for amateurs. You want to do everything possible to identify and avoid any potentially hostile situations.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 The bad guys will have put together a mental plan and strategy for attacking you, so should you not have one for how to counter them?

The easiest way to assess someone’s personal security is to go up and ask them a question like what’s the time etc. By doing this and reading their reaction you can tell if they are security aware or clueless. Now think about how you would react if a stranger approached you and asked you the time. What’s your body language going to be saying? Are you going to tell them the time? Will you be caught up looking at your watch or assessing their body language? Or will you be in a defensive stance, checking for any obstacles in your area that can trip you up? Can you access potential weapons to aid you? Would you even be thinking about your weapon?

The criminals want to set you up and catch you off guard. To do this they will use distractions or surprise. If you understand how the criminal operate you can hopefully spot a potentially hostile situation and avoid it. Or if it’s unavoidable reverse the situation and set the criminal up for failure.

Once you have identified that you are going to have to deal

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BE STREETWISE AND THINK LIKE A CRIMINAL!

If you have already planned your reaction you’re not going to panic, you’ll just be going through your procedures and be setting the criminal up for your counter attack. with a violent situation you need to quickly work out your strategy and put into operation your counter attack. There are three elements needed to win a confrontation: 1) surprise, 2) speed and 3) aggression.

If you can combine two of these elements in your counter attack, there is a greater chance you’ll be successful.

to say. Can you access your weapon, are your standing on slippery or uneven ground, are there objects that can trip you up, look for objects that can provide you with cover etc.?

If you have already planned you reaction, you’re not going to panic. You’ll just be going through your procedures and be setting the criminal up for your • Surprise: This is the main counter attack. So, if a thing that you require. stranger approaches you Surprise will give you the start setting them up edge in all confrontations. by assessing their body If the criminals don’t language, assessing your expect you to attack surroundings, getting them; they won’t be ready yourself into a defensive to defend themselves. stance, consider what you • Speed: Your actions need want your body language to be fast and decisive, no to be saying, select target hesitation! points on the stranger • Aggression: Aggression and how you’ll access will always beat fancy your weapon. Shootings techniques. generally take place at very close quarters and there Other things you will need will be many obstacles, to consider is what do you which you can trip over want your body language like curb stones, chairs

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 and tables etc. Be aware of what’s around you. Chances are you will not have the space or time to get into textbook shooting stance, so this is where training in one handed close quarter shooting is a must. You should use distractions as they can give you the seconds needed to deploy your weapon or move to cover. When you are out and about on your daily business always consider how you would react if attacked by those around you. The next time you are at the mall or in a coffee shop look around workout if you could access your weapon quickly, are you in a good position, what you could use as cover and how you would exit the building safely!

and volume make up 38% and body language makes up 55% of the message. So, let’s say you’re approached by someone while pumping gas into your car and they are telling you how much they like your car; their breathing rate is shallow and accelerated, their sweating and making agitated movements with their hands. Are you going to engage them in a conversation about the car or read their body language, assess your surrounding and be ready to deploy your weapon?

There are three main components of communication between humans: spoken words contribute 7%, vocal tone

When you are out at the mall or in a restaurant or bar, watch the people around you and try to identify what mood they are

Start reading people’s body language, at a basic level you can generally tell if people are happy, sad or angry. Even though it’s not 100% reliable, someone’s One of the main things facial expressions are good that you need to learn is indicators to what mental how to assess someone’s state the person is in. If body language and control someone is stressed, their your own. This is very faces will be flushed, they important skill as you need may be sweating, have to try to identify someone’s veins protruding in their intentions and not telegraph neck or forehead and they to them your potential may be a tensing their facial response. muscles.

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BE STREETWISE AND THINK LIKE A CRIMINAL! in or what type of discussion they are having with others.

It should be easy to identify if a man and a woman are on a romantic date or two business people are having a heated discussion. When in a coffee shop try to determine what people are looking at on their laptops; are they concentrating or goofing around? You must learn to read body language, because this will help you identify, avoid and if necessary react to potential threats.

include: adrenal surges, increased heart rate and blood circulation, sweating, increased respiration, increased muscular tension, reduced peripheral field of vision, reduced decisionmaking ability and auditory exclusion.

If you have ever been involved in a car accident, try to remember how you felt just before, during and after then try to remember if you felt any of the above reactions. If you have ever tripped over something When a person is involved and subsequently fell, try in a stressful situation their to remember what it felt body will undergo over 150 like. For example, did the different physical stress time between you actually reactions. These stress tripping and hitting the reactions will happen to floor seem longer than you and criminals alike, the fraction of a second it you need to be aware of took in actuality, were you them and be able to notice sweating and was your them in yourself and others. heart beating rapidly when A bodies stress reactions you hit the floor?

Start reading people’s body language, at a basic level you can generally tell if people are happy, sad or angry.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 Learn to read your own body language as well as others. If you are in a situation and your heart rate starts to increase or you start to breathe quickly; try to identify why this is happening. This could be your body’s sixth sense telling you that something is not right and to get ready to react to a hostile incident. Look for these stress reactions in people around you. If someone approaches you and their face is flushed, eyes are wide and bloodshot, and they have veins protruding in their forehead and neck, maybe you want to try to avoid them or get ready for a confrontation!

Warning signs that identify someone is agitated and a potential threat include direct prolonged eye contact, flushed face, accelerated breathing rate, sweating, or the veins in the neck and forehead are protruding, fists clenching unclenching, hands moving towards a concealed

weapon, hands rising getting ready to strike, head dropping forward to protect throat, eyes narrowing, looking to see if you are armed or at intended target’s areas on your body, changing to side on shooting or fighting stance and lowering the body before launching an attack.

Always remember, if the criminal is street wise they will be monitoring your body language and trying to predict your reactions.

You should never give any indication that you are going to defend yourself or are armed. Your reactions should be a total surprise to you attacker. You must have an offensive mindset, not defensive. You should always keep a low profile, do whatever you can to avoid problems. But if put in a situation where you have to use force, the bad guys will be totally overwhelmed.

Remember, fighting is for amateurs, you just end things!

Orlando Wilson has worked in the security industry internationally for over 25 years. He has become accustomed to the types of complications that can occur, when dealing with international law enforcement agencies, organized criminal and Mafia groups. He is the chief consultant for Risks Inc. and based in Miami but spends much of his time traveling and providing a wide range of kidnapping prevention and tactical training services to private and government clients.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

TASK, THREAT & ENVIRONMENTTHE MINDSET OF PROTECTIVE SERVICES

By: Joseph M. LaSorsa

For a number of reasons, the most difficult thing to instil in a student during training is the proper mindset.

Every student has bias from his or her experiences and the appropriate mindset for any professional must be ingrained through operational experience, not simply embedded through osmosis from instruction alone.

In this article I’ll explain the mindset that I have developed which is largely responsible for the effectiveness and success in the way I work a detail.

If you’ve been following my articles, posts, or been to a course with me you’ve

undoubtedly heard me reference ‘adapt it to your task, threat and environment.’ This is a mindset that goes beyond situational awareness, knowledge, or even foresight but rather a collection of them all into a cycle which must be constantly in rotation.

The items listed are the most paramount on the task list of a security professional engaged in protective services. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list and must constantly be added to or modified based on circumstance.

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TASK, THREAT, & ENVIRONMENT

However, I would offer the opinion that the framework presented in this cycle will be the most effective given the core objectives of a security professional.

Similar to an OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) this cycle must be an ongoing mental process and is designed to keep your mind sharp with

your head on a swivel, able to proactively decipher your task, threat and environment.

Task The questions that must be answered here are rather simple, but the resultant decisions and activities derived from it are anything but easy. Here you must develop a mission statement for your assignment. The method

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 I use is to create a modular mission statement by filling in the W’s: ‘when’ ‘what’ ‘who’ ‘where’ in order to ‘why’ For example: ‘From 1600-TBD transit Mr. Smith and entourage from LAX to HQ in order to provide secure transportation and close personal protection.‘ This is an crucial step as it defines your purpose and provides the base for all of your follow on decisions. *The order of first 4 W’s is not important and add details as required, such as # of people, vehicles, etc.

Threat This part of the cycle has its own sub-cycle which includes “Intentional, Unintentional, Embarrassing.” Constantly cycle through the intentional attack vectors which may present themselves based on your threat profiles and region, the unintentional occurrences that may result in harm or other detrimental impact, and any embarrassing incidents that may

potentially occur based on the profile of your principal, event, etc.

Environment This step in the cycle also has its own sub-cycle which includes “Inner, Middle, Outer.” Constantly assess and maintain awareness of your environment, establishing perimeters which have escalating interventions and responses.

Understand the purpose of this mindset; that it should be a constant cycle and continuously adapting to your specific circumstances and requirements.

This is the basic model that I use, based on my experiences, anyone else’s may differ based on their experiences. Use it as a framework or adjust it to a model that works for you. As always, this is just my opinion, which is hopefully worth more to you than what you’ve paid for it. Thanks for reading.

Stay calm, stay smart, stay safe.

– JML

Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm. Web: www.linkedin.com/in/josephmlasorsa

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TROUBLE AHEAD

TROUBLE AHEAD

By:Joel Whittaker

I’m currently working with the media near Mosul and I am reminded heavily of my time in Northern Iraq during the years that immediately followed the 2003 invasion.

Then as now it was dusty and dangerous. Good team banter and sweet black tea were a staple diet during long days spent on the road and we were often well received by the local population, we still are despite all they have endured. I’ve always been

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impressed by the warm culture found in Iraq, a far cry from the faceless glassy towers that litter many of the gulf states.

Iraq has a rich and fascinating mix of tribal and religious groups but the divides are large and often

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

The offensive to retake Mosul, Iraq’s second biggest city, from IS fighters started off well for Iraqi forces.

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deadly. Through necessity the old divides have been placed to one side as Shia, Sunni and Kurdish forces supported by the West and Turkey work militarily alongside each other to clear Iraq of a common enemy, the Islamic State (IS).

The offensive to retake Mosul, Iraq’s second biggest city, from IS fighters started off well for Iraqi forces. But after a triumphant push across the rolling dusty Nineveh plains they are now making slow progress in the suburbs of Mosul; There is some inward movement but mostly they are resupplying

TROUBLE AHEAD and reassessing whilst they ponder their next move.

Nobody expects great gains any time soon.

A substantial future push is likely to involve more than just the initially conceived incursion of Baghdad aligned Iraqi troops into Mosul. They need more back up.

Kurdish Peshmerga troops who have fought well up to the outskirts are unlikely to enter but Shia Militia, who have assisted the advance but were to be kept from actually entering the city proper, may now find themselves involved in its liberation too. There is

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concern that Shia led Militia entering a Sunni enclave may commit atrocities, something that leaders will want to discus before making any commitments of force.

Everyone is aware the retaking of Mosul will be a tough fight. Islamic State did not invest too heavily in the defence of outlying villages and industrial zones, instead they choose to fight in tight immobile city streets.

Their strategy is drawing in and smashing security forces with rockets or using

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 bombers either wearing suicide vests or driving motorbikes and cars packed with explosives. They then surround and destroy the remaining troops. During one particularly noisy night during recent fighting my team was filming part of a new frontline, there had been a fresh push and now armoured vehicles sped along a dirt track road heading towards the fighting. Near to my position I heard words of command hurriedly barked in Arabic.

A commander had just returned from a fighting patrol. It was dark but his vehicle lights illuminated what looked like strips of cloth hanging off his Humvee (armoured vehicle).

He told me how they were ambushed, his armoured column divided as rockets pounded them. A man with a suicide vest ran after his vehicle as they tried to escape detonating close enough to spray flesh and bone over his doors and windows. Those strips of cloth were the human strips of flesh I now found myself looking at.

The Commander didn’t hang around too long, with fresh

ammunition loaded they had to get back to the fight as some of his unit had been cut off and surrounded. I was glad I wasn’t going with them.

Islamic State (IS), proving to be tenacious in defending Mosul, are inventive too.

Drone aircraft, expertly piloted and guided with onboard cameras are targeting well behind Iraqi defensive lines live streaming troop dispositions and movements to IS commanders who can then direct attacks.

IS are also using drones as a lethal weapon packing them with explosives or chemicals and flying them at Iraqi troops, small wonder that the air erupts in gunfire whenever one is spotted.

Tunnels are common.

For the last two years anyone deemed worthy of punishment by the terror group has been digging them. Burrowed under debrislined streets, they provide great cover and discreet firing positions.

Some tunnels are filled with explosives to welcome incoming troops.

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TROUBLE AHEAD

He told me how they were ambushed, his armoured column divided as rockets pounded them.

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Other potential threats could be hiding in plain sight too.

Islamic state fighters are likely to attack liberated areas by posing as refugees or homeowners with cached weapons, waiting for the right opportunity to target high value targets, humanitarian efforts or media teams.

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 Civilians are a large consideration of any military operation and Iraqi Forces concerned for the safety of those trapped within the city are factoring this into their strategy.

or even through Iraq army positions.

Civilians indirectly pose a threat to the military as they flood into freshly secured areas to escape intense fighting. IS are sending suicide bombers amongst Millions of leaflets, them as they are welcomed airdropped over Mosul,

by Iraqi forces, this has have warned residents to remain in their homes whilst resulted in innocent civilians being shot by nervous there is fighting in their troops who mistakenly neighbourhood and to raise thought they had a suicide white flags once the Iraq vest on or were about forces are in control. They have also been informed that to remotely detonate an explosive device. anyone driving a car when the military are approaching After recently speaking to may be shot, cars are refugees it is clear there is a a favoured method of delivering suicide bombs into lot of mistrust amongst the civilian population towards the ranks of Iraqi Forces. the Iraqi Forces who, IS have recently captured they say, are taking longer Iraqi armoured vehicles than planned to liberate which gives them the them. capability to get close to

They have also been informed that anyone driving a car when the military are approaching may be shot, cars are a favoured method of delivering suicide bombs into the ranks of Iraqi Forces.

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TROUBLE AHEAD But it’s the time that follows the city’s liberation that will be a real test of leadership for the region. The governor of Nineveh province, of which Mosul is the heart, recently commented that ‘I want to shave my beard there is no post Mosul off’ one man told us ‘but we plan that he is aware of. A don’t trust that Daesh (local description of IS) won’t return’. terrifying statement given the demands of governance that are sure to follow not After two years of IS rule only in his province but also and a faltering start to the offensive to retake Mosul his the greater region. paranoid is understandable.

With a heady mix of Baghdad backed Iraqi Looking ahead there is little Military, Iranian linked doubt that Mosul will be Shia Militia and Kurdish retaken but it will be a hard Peshmerga troops in control won fight. The timeline may of large areas of Northern be longer than planned, Iraq, there are bound to be current predictions have it around three to four months, disputes as each pursues their own interests. Disputes some are saying longer. that without good leadership Fighting in the old part of the may lead to vicious civil war.

West Mosul will further draw out this offensive, the streets When I chat to local people they are hopeful that Islamic are winding and narrow State will be cleared from making armoured vehicle Iraq and absolutely certain access impossible in many trouble will follow soon parts, this is likely to slow after. down the Iraqi advance.

This mistrust was clear in the beards still being sported amongst those men who we saw in the liberated eastern suburb of Kukjali.

Joel Whittaker is an international security consultant who specialises in providing training and consultancy for companies and individuals who operate in high-risk environments, media and NGOs. Joel, a former Paratrooper is also the founder of Intrepid Events, an organisation which conducts team-building activities and employs a strong contingent of ex-military personnel in its training and events. www.intrepid-events.com

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FIRST AID FOR A PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY

First aid for a psychological injury

By: Dr Liz Royle

If you work in an environment where people are likely to get physically injured, then it stands to reason you would want people available with the skills to help. may even prevent more serious problems from developing.

Most workplaces are comfortable with the notion of a first aider.

They understand their purpose and the need for someone who can administer immediate support when there has been a physical injury. They recognise that often this early intervention is all that is needed and that it

Generally we consider the functioning of our physical apparatus but completely ignore our mental functioning. As though it’s not really important or will somehow take care of itself!

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 are less visible. We need to assess and monitor based on the less subtle signs of distress.

It’s not always about someone expressing loud emotions – especially in the close protection working environment! We tend to make assumptions about what Any good physical first aider will or won’t affect people and will tell you that the first rule many organisations have tickwhen attending a casualty is to boxes. Unless you fall into one survey the scene and determine of their categories – perhaps the cause of the injury so as to avoid becoming another casualty. “shots fired, death or serious injury occurred” – then nobody Assessment is equally important with psychological first aid (PFA). will even consider anything needs doing. A trained psychological first aider will have a good What has happened? Who understanding of the factors needs help? that make an event potentially This may sound obvious but traumatic, and the range of many psychological injuries Following a traumatic event, psychological first aid or crisis intervention can be just as valuable as physical first aid and follows the same guiding principles.

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FIRST AID FOR A PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY trauma reactions, enabling them to base their intervention on individual need rather than misconceptions.

Crisis intervention is very practical.

Psychologist Abraham Maslow created a hierarchy of human needs (shown in the pyramid diagram). The foundations of the pyramid must be in place before higher levels can be attended to.

A traumatic incident may result in the very foundations of the hierarchy being undermined.

• Physiological or survival needs: this includes access to air, food, water, warmth and sleep • Safety needs: such as shelter from the elements, security, freedom from fear, law and order • Love, affection and belonging: this means being connected to others – family, friends, work colleagues.

A criticism of untrained but wellmeaning helpers is that they focus on asking “how are you feeling” before ensuring these basic needs have been met. The individual in crisis can’t even safely consider this question at that stage. A metaphor I often use is to imagine you stumble across a man drowning in the river. Would you sit on the river bank and ask how he is feeling, what is it like in the water? OR would you throw him a rope, haul him out, and make him safe,

warm and dry?

Higher needs are less important when the foundations are not being met but these may also be disturbed by a traumatic event.

• Esteem: for example having a sense of achievement, independence, respect and status • Self-actualisation: means seeking personal growth and self-fulfilment Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

With PFA, we can’t really consider emotional first aid whilst any danger continues. However, it is not necessarily about being safe but about feeling safe – not always the same thing! The psychological first aider must have a calm reassuring presence to actively promote this sense of safety and recognise how the individual’s survival response will be tuned to

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Psychological first aid is exactly that – first aid.

You wouldn’t expect the physical first aider to fully resolve a heart attack or loss of limb. ongoing threat. Often, connecting with secure and trusted others helps to induce that much-needed sense of safety.

the ways they can reduce their symptoms.

Triage is a crucial aspect of both types of first aid.

Psychological first aid is exactly that – first aid. You wouldn’t Symptom reduction Psychological first aiders will next expect the physical first aider to aim to reduce distress. They may fully resolve a heart attack or loss of limb. The physical first facilitate the individual in safely releasing emotions and beginning aider will always be assessing what ongoing level of care is the process of verbalising what required. This may simply be happened to them. This is the advising the individual to keep start of “downloading” the masses of sensory data from the a cut clean and dry or to rest a incident and making sense of it – sprain. This may be sufficient for a full recovery. However, they vital tasks for the brain. may advise them to seek further assistance – ranging from seeing Physical first aiders will offer their doctor in a day or so (if advice on the injury – ice-pack, symptoms deteriorate or don’t keep it clean, don’t overly put clear) right up to immediately weight on it etc. Psychological calling an ambulance and first aiders will similarly offer handing the care over to a guidance on the simple steps paramedic. the person can take to reduce Post Traumatic Stress symptoms Triage is similarly always as well as discouraging actions considered in a crisis intervention that may inadvertently hinder recovery. Informational handouts and again may vary from offering more education on self-care to (for the individual and for their loved ones) are commonly given seeking further assistance from a mental health professional. and will remind the person of

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FIRST AID FOR A PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY The psychological first aider will always arrange a follow up over the next few days. This is important as initially shock may prevent a proper assessment of needs. Trained psychological first aiders will be aware of the range of helpful interventions and when they are most appropriate to use.

Whenever we support someone in need we should Keep it simple: following a traumatic event, the brain needs to process what was often overwhelming sensory data.

Until the survival response is switched off, there is little room for complex information.

Keep it short: For the same reason, whatever we do needs to be brief. The closer to the event that we are intervening, the simpler and shorter that intervention needs to be.

What has helped you in a crisis?

Think of a critical time in your life when you needed emotional support and someone helped you.

• What was it they said, did or expressed that helped?

• What, if any, special qualities did the person have?

• What did they do that didn’t help, for example judge or advise you?

• How did you feel about telling them about your problems?

• How did you feel afterwards?

• Was this a formal relationship – e.g. a health professional or therapist, or informal – family member, close friend?

You may notice that often it’s the small things that made a big difference – in either a positive or negative way. Sometimes, though we try so hard to say and do what we think is the right thing that we forget the basics – being human and genuinely caring. There are lots of psychological first aid skills that can help support those affected by crisis and trauma but without these attributes we will always be less than helpful.

To learn more about training as a psychological first aider, please contact us at office@ powertorecover.com or speak to SafeHaven Trauma Centre – our licensed provider of training courses – on 0161 635 3522 or email info@ safehaventraumacentre.com

Dr. Liz Royle is an international speaker and author who specialises in providing psychological trauma consultancy and training for high risk organisations. She was a founder Board member for the UK Psychological Trauma Society and leads the Uniformed Services Task Force on behalf of the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.

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The art of being an independent learner

By: Dr Amy Burrell

For anyone involved in higher education, especially postgraduate courses, the term “independent learner” is probably something you hear all the time.

But, what does it mean?

There seems to be some misunderstanding about what being an independent learner is with some people thinking that means you have to do everything alone and others struggling to adapt to taking more control over their own learning journey.

So, what is independent learning?

The Higher Education Academy 1 describe independent learning as “a

process, a method and a philosophy of education in which a student acquires knowledge by his or her own efforts”.

There are a lot of myths surrounding independent learning, often arising from a lack of understanding of what it aims to achieve and/or scepticism about why it is being encouraged.

For example, one common misconception is that tutors emphasise independent learning because they are

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INDEPENDENT LEARNER being lazy. Whilst I accept that some individuals might shirk work (this happens in every sector and education is no exception) for most of us this could not be further from the truth. Firstly, it is actually more challenging and time consuming to support someone else to learn something for themselves than to just tell them the answer (anyone who has played that party game where you have to guess the celebrity from a description can vouch for the truth of this!).

Furthermore, we want you to succeed (aside from personal fulfilment when a student does well remember it looks bad for us if you don’t). We also want to support you to succeed when your course is finished and one of the best ways to do this is to help you develop

transferable skills and your ability to problem solve independently.

Another common complaint I hear is “I don’t get any feedback” – now, let’s be honest, what you mean is that you want feedback about everything. Not only is this unfeasible but it is also completely unrealistic if you think about employer expectations. Imagine if you asked your manager to check every single thing you did and work and asked for feedback on it?

It would not be long before you were pulled into a meeting to discuss your working practices. Part of independent learning is learning how to selfmonitor - after all, this is what would be expected from you by an employer.

A further myth arises from under-confidence.

Sometimes students are

There are a lot of myths surrounding independent learning, often arising from a lack of understanding of what it aims to achieve and/or scepticism about why it is being encouraged.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 unsure what to do and think they need to be directed to everything in order to be successful.

expected to identify extra relevant reading.

Benefits of independent learning However, acquiring a It can be a challenging new skill or expanding to shift your perceptions knowledge of a new topic of and attitudes towards should not focus purely on independent learning. what tutors direct you to.

However, there are many benefits. These include, but are not limited to: • Skills development, such as enhancing the ability for inquiry and critical thinking.

• Improving metacognitive skills – i.e. the ability to describe how you learn and identify key activities essential for learning. So, for example, if you learn by doing then set yourself activities that help you to practice the skill you are trying to learn. This idea is already utilised by lots of educators to boost Whilst the tutor will provide learning, for example, the scaffolding for learning, many MSc courses focus it would be limiting if they assignments in this dictated all the sources you ilk such as learning accessed. Thus, although how to conduct a risk the tutor can provide a assessment by writing starting point (place the a risk assessment report first brick if you like) it is rather than writing an up to the student to place essay on the theory of subsequent bricks. So, risk assessment. while a tutor might signpost • Affective skills (i.e. you to a recommended relating to growth in reading list you are feelings and emotions)

Although the tutor can provide a starting point (place the first brick if you like) it is up to the student to place subsequent bricks.

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INDEPENDENT LEARNER are important too and these can also be developed through independent learning.

For example, in relation to motivation, it is important to be able to wait for assignment results without letting this impact on the learning you are doing in the meantime.

• Independent learning is associated with improved academic performance, and increased motivation and confidence. It also helps you gain a greater awareness of your own limitations and, crucially, how to manage these.

• Finally, independent learning helps develop time management skills as it provides lots of opportunities to practice organising your own timetable, activities, and deadlines.

Tips for becoming an independent learner Hopefully I have convinced you that you really want to become an independent learner and you are thinking about how you can start to approach learning in this way.

As a key ingredient for independent learning is a

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shift of responsibility for learning from the tutor to the student, it is important to approach it with an open mind. Students need to understand their own responsibilities, be motivated to learn, and collaborate with tutors about how to structure learning effectively. There are also other things you can do, including: • Taking ownership of your own learning.

• Listening and responding to feedback (in whatever form this comes – a common misconception about feedback is that this is only written and is only from the tutor.

In reality, feedback can come in many forms (e.g. verbal) and from a range of sources (e.g. from peers)).

• Embrace online resources to support learning.

• Become an active reader – this does not just mean doing some reading but more to really think about what you are reading and how it relates to your course or assessment. When you are reading an article/book think about how it is relevant and make a note of the key

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Set goals to keep yourself motivated but avoid becoming assessment focused. points you have learned it is unlikely you will need and how these relate to to be able to demonstrate the topic you are learning you understand the about. specific theory that • Set goals to keep yourself you critiqued in your motivated but avoid assessment, instead you becoming assessment are far more likely to focused. I have come need to be able to discuss across lots of students the wider field of study. who ask why they have • Practice working on your to “learn all this stuff” own without help. If you or “go to all these have questions write lectures that are not on them down then come my chosen essay back to them later and question”. Answer: check if you still need to to gain a holistic ask these. You might understanding of the find you have identified topic area, not just the answer for yourself in for learning sake, but the meantime. to support you in your • Of course, you should search for a relevant seek help when career/job – remember necessary, but the art

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INDEPENDENT LEARNER is in finding the balance.

You are not going to be spoon fed so if you find that you are really stuck on something (e.g. you really don’t understand this theory or how that process works) then ask.

• If you do want to ask questions, do so but think about them first – is this something you could easily look up? Why am I asking? I was recently asked “do we have to use the template you provided for the assignment?” Me (somewhat perplexed): “Yes, that’s why I provided it…” Questions like this waste both your and your tutors time.

• If you need help be clear about what you want.

I have lost count of the number of emails which just say something along the lines of “what is the word count?”. This annoys me for several reasons. Firstly, this will be clearly listed in your assessment guide

(you know that document I spent hours putting together outlining all the information about your module, yes, that one).

Secondly, it is likely that your tutor is working with lots of students on lots of modules. It is therefore important to be clear about what you need so that they can answer more quickly (and without going slightly crazy!).

Conclusion Independent learning is not something to shy away from; on the contrary it should be embraced. Not only is an expectation of independent learning inevitable as you progress through your learning journey, but (if you embrace it!) you will find you get more out of education. www.heacademy.ac.uk/ system/files/resources/ independent_learning.pdf

Amy holds a BSc in Applied Psychology, an MSc in Forensic Behavioural Science, and a PhD in Psychology. Amy is a Lecturer in Forensic Psychology at Birmingham City University and can be contacted on amy.burrell@bcu. ac.uk. She was previously the Training Manager for Perpetuity Training who specialise in security training (see www.perpetuitytraining.com) and is also involved in the Crime Linkage International NetworK (C-LINK) (see www. crimelinkage.org).

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The Great Escape

With: Joel Whittaker

It seems like a mad idea: an adventure where people willing sign up to break out of a prisoner of war camp and then go on a gruelling obstacle course run behind enemy lines.

Yet, former paratrooper, Joel Whittaker, was convinced a lot of people would love it.

He decided to create the Great Escape, an event that runs each summer in Oxfordshire.

“It’s a friendly event but tough enough to make it a worthwhile physical challenge,” he says, “the emphasis is on team work, from the initial escape through to making it around the 10 kilometres and 20 plus obstacles you have to rely on each other to get around the course. We don’t take times, we do however chase you down and recapture you if you’re not making some progress.

There is scope for chosen individuals or teams to undergo a little interrogation if requested,” he adds with a sly

smile.

Whittaker says the idea came to him while he was running a Surviving Hostile Regions course for journalists - a notoriously hardbitten lot. But despite their scepticism, everyone loved the practical day where they put the learning to the test in a simulated war zone.

On top of working as a security consultant, Whittaker is also the founder of Intrepid Events; a team building company whose flagship adventurous challenge; the Great Escape, is a new kid on the block in the events world.

“We ran the first Great Escape event in July 2016 on the beautiful Culden Faw estate in Oxfordshire and people loved it. We got great reviews from seasoned obstacle course

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THE GREAT ESCAPE

racers, teams of friends and corporate teams,” says Whittaker.

“It is all done in great humour though and I was so pleased that so many participants immersed themselves into the actual theme of the event.

There were some great outfits and bags of moustaches and pipes.”

Based on the real Great Escape conducted by allied Prisoners

Of War during WW2 the race celebrates the monumental team effort that saw 76 men escape from a heavily guarded P.O.W camp on one dark and cold night in 1944.

“It really highlights the ingenuity and tenacity of those airmen captured and detained deep behind enemy lines. The effort required to dig those long deep tunnels was immense and the fact that they did so whilst under such scrutiny by the

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 German guards is absolutely amazing,” says Whittaker.

It is also an act of remembrance. All but three were recaptured soon after the escape and of those 73 recaptured, 50 were executed.

In fact, one of this year’s participants has a deep connection with the Great Escape. Tarryn Jupp’s great uncle was one to the 76 men who escaped.

It is all done in great humour though and I was so pleased that so many participants immersed themselves into the actual theme of the event. There were some great outfits and bags of moustaches and pipes.

She wrote to Whittaker thanking him for the event, “My Great Uncle – Neville McGarr (24 November 1917 to 6 April 1944) was a fighter pilot from South Africa who was taken prisoner during the Second World War. He participated in the ‘Great Escape’ from Stalag Luft III in March 1944 but was one of the men recaptured and subsequently murdered by the Gestapo.”

Whittaker says many participants said they had family members who had served in the military and saw this events as a way get a small insight the hardship they may have endured.

The military clearly matters to Whittaker who served with 1 Para for 8 years and Intrepid Events made a point of hiring

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THE GREAT ESCAPE

ex-military personnel to help with the event.

“As the event organiser, I need self motivated individuals who can think on their feet and work together as a cohesive unit.

The British Military encourage soldiers to think outside of the box, ‘make it work’ is a mantra in most units,” he explains.

“Things rarely run to plan and with ex-military personnel I know I have field ready troops who can handle difficult situations, roll with the punches and ultimately make it work.”

The Great Escape threw up its own challenges at the

founder. The initial financial outlay was high for equipment, land, manpower and labour requirements.

“Complex events take an insane amount of organisation and time to be successful and I rely on a strong team to ensure we achieve what we set out to do,” says Whittaker.

This kind of can-do attitude not only ensures smooth sailing in rough seas, it also gets noticed by the people who count to Whittaker - the participants.

“The British public have a deep love of the Armed forces

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 in this country. Our military have always stepped up to the challenge of national defence, working for long periods of time and in arduous often hazardous environments whilst showing great professionalism, dedication and a steadfast ability to get the task done. They are the perfect ambassadors for the Great Escape event and enthuse participants shouting words of support as teams scramble to get around this challenging course,” he says.

Whittaker says the event attracts people across a wide spectrum, “we had groups of runners, boxers, tailors,

accountants and lawyers. It was a real cross section of the UK encompassing varying ages, abilities and cultures.”

It is also refreshingly different in approach from the ‘how tough are you?’ attitude of other races.

“The Great Escape doesn’t care if you are the toughest of the tough and we don’t give medals either, you do get dog tags of course!”

Different groups were obtaining wide ranging benefits from this event he says.

“Running clubs were really

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THE GREAT ESCAPE

“Running clubs were really going for it on the obstacles, corporates were enjoying a bonding away-day and groups of friends were just having an amazing laugh. We cater to individuals too, teaming lone entrants up well before the event starts to ensure everyone is happy. going for it on the obstacles, corporates were enjoying a bonding away-day and groups of friends were just having an amazing laugh. We cater to individuals too, teaming lone entrants up well before the event starts to ensure everyone is happy.

In 2017. I would love to see serving or former military personnel taking part in the event, there is a discount just for that group,” says Whittaker.

On this year’s event Intrepid Events are bringing on board the World War 2 in Colour reenactment group to add more flavour around the edges as well as upping numbers of the hunter force to give them more options in recapturing participants.

“It’ll be great fun! We also have a camping spot, right next to

event area nestled against the river Thames and a ‘cooler’ bar, of course.” But Whittaker says, “for me the most rewarding part of the Great Escape is seeing the sense of achievement on peoples faces when they complete challenges they had initially thought would be impossible to do. We have tunnels, high climbs and some water obstacles that push you just enough to get an amazing sense of achievement without actually breaking you.”

This year’s Great Escape adventure is being held on Saturday July 22nd at the Culden Faw Estate about 1 mile South of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire. Camping is available to all on the Saturday night and by prior arrangement to those requiring somewhere to sleep on the Friday night before the event.

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CHURCH SECURITY: THE NEW FRONTIER By: DR. ANDREW P SURACE

Having been in church for over 50 years, the words church security sometimes seem like an oxymoron.

Church was the place that provided total safety and security.

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There was a time when church and security did not go together… when church was a safe place… literally a place of sanctuary.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 Now it has become the safe place that must be kept safe. Because church is an institution that welcomes all comers with arms wide open, it has not only attracted those who want to bring their problems to the altar but those who want to cause a problem at the altar. In this article I would like to look at some safety related areas that will help change your mind set about church security and start you on the road to making your church a safer place.

THE GREAT ILLUSION… WHY THE NEED? There was a time when church and security did not go together…when church was a safe place…literally a place of sanctuary. This however is no longer the case. In fact, statistics show that more people have been killed churches in the last 15 years than in schools. While the reasons are many, I will discuss two. Churches have become places of controversy in a culture that no longer accepts the morals and values of our grandparents. The other reason being Churches are now attracting a variety of new people due to many churches looking very much more like night clubs with loud music, smoke machines and dazzling lights, than places of worship. Again, not your mom or dads kind of church.

Though many of these people

come to get help, some at times may come to cause problems.

THE ARCH ENEMY OF CHURCH SECURITY This enemy is not a man with a gun or a grudge, it’s a man filled with faith. For decades, because churches have been relatively safe places and because of that, people of faith have felt there is no need to protect ourselves because God will protect us. However, many churches have now become very prosperous and with that prosperity made a name for themselves causing things to change. This new attention, some of which is negative, brings new focus on the goings on in the church.

The Church is no longer the little building on the corner with the steeple. It has often times become the voice in the community, on the radio, television and of late all over the internet.

IN YOUR SECURITY DON’T IGNORE SAFETY…IT’S MORE THAN WATCHING OUT FOR THE BAD GUY Statistically, the chances of a gunmen walking into your church are slim. Even violence in the church although growing at a rapid pace is not an everyday occurrence in the U.S. Those two issues however are just a small part just a small part of Church safety. Trip hazards, medical emergencies

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that walk in the door every week, furnaces not properly maintained etc. even accidents in the parking lot are all part of the non-criminal aspect of keeping your church safe. Church safety done right can at times be quite boring. While the guns and the domestics get all the publicity it is the little things that more than likely can bring a law suit or bad reputation to your church in the community.

WHAT DOES CHURCH SECURITY LOOK LIKE Your Church Safety /Security team must not only look out for the bad guy but those things that can give people a bad opinion of or wrong impression of your church.

Ideally, any type of security covers not only physical

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security of people and things, but accidental or embarrassing things that might happen in a church. This includes things such as the Pastor tripping over a microphone cord or a Sunday school teacher not showing up in a classroom full of children. There are many ways that a church can find itself in a compromising or embarrassing situation that is not necessarily dangerous but can harm the reputation of that church and thus keep people away because of what the word on the street is. This also is part of the work of your safety and or security team‌ to protect the reputation of your church or ministry CHOOSING YOUR TEAM OF FIRST RESPONDERS Having good church safety is

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 much more than watching out for bad guys with guns. As I said earlier, there are many things that go into creating a safe worship environment.

One of the most common things to happen in a church environment is emergency medical problems. Anything from a bee sting to a heart attack can create havoc in a place of peace. Knowing who the people to call on are before you have to call on them is important. Do you have Police officers, Doctors, Nurses or EMT’s already in your building on any given day? A meeting with these people in good times, can prepare them for emergent situations. Knowing who they are and what resources are available will save lots of time and perhaps lives when an emergency situation arises.

THE BUSINESS OF PROTECTING GOD’S HOUSE One of the hardest things about church security is convincing the church it needs security. Because we live in such a highly litigious society, Secular venues such as schools, concert halls, theatres are setting the pace for security in places

where people gather. In fact, chances are there has never been a time where security has been a more talked about topic in America. Slowly but surely this topic is leaking into the church which has always seemed to be impervious to this type of discussion. I have heard from some of my friends in ministry, that some insurance companies are now putting a demand on churches to have a safety or security officers before they will issue a policy. Yes church security is becoming the business of the church and churches are scrambling to comply to meet the needs of not only their insurance companies but their congregations.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A SITE ASSESMENT Because no two churches are alike, the need for an individual church site assessment is very important.

Every building and campus has built in weaknesses as well as strengths that need to be recognized ahead of time so that any type of treat can be more easily mitigated.

Does your building have too many entrances, a safe room, enough fire exits or fire extinguishers? Again, to

One of the hardest things about church security is convincing the church it needs security.

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CHURCH SECURITY make church service a safer experience, these things should be looked into when there are no threats or no one at risk and therefore an atmosphere to easily make changes without causing fear or suspicion.

THE POWER OF POLICIES When you think of policies, it’s easy to picture a lot of papers and cerebral discussion in some back room. Policies however are decisions made in private based on historical Intel and data of conflicts and problems faced in the past in any area of human interaction. So to keep it simple, when a conflict occurs in a church or on its property, often times it has happened before and a conclusion was come to on how to deal with it in the future. Security of any type is always evolving and policies are the written histories of what happened and how it was dealt with.

The other major importance of having policies set in place, is it avoids being accused of singling out or profiling any particular type of individual or behavior. In a day where people are so easily offended a policy makes it clear that this is the way a particular church deals with any

particular situation for all individuals.

In closing, these are just a few good reasons as well as ideas as to why and how to start thinking about having a team of men and women from your church trained to start looking out for the safety of the people. As our culture continues on, this will be more and more necessary both from a business standpoint as well as a safety stand point.

As the church begins to grasp this idea, they will see that it will not only keep their people safer but will actually help bring more church growth.

Dr. Surace is a seasoned Pastor with over 35 years of ministry. He is a trained EMT and executive protection specialist. He along with co-Author Eric Konohia are authors of a book on the subject of church security entitled “Securing the Sacred”. It is available on Amazon as well as bookstores around the world.

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Keeping Your Edge:

Politics as Un-usual Here’s a question: How do you express something special and meaningful that has occurred during your time in the industry without it coming off as bragging?

I’ve always tried to make sure I ask and answer that question before I write about personal experiences in public settings.

In light of that, I must admit I thought about this one a bit longer than most, but felt it was worthy to share because one of the purposes of The

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By: Elijah Shaw

Circuit Magazine is to inform and educate while offering unique perspectives within the Close Protection community.

Recently I had one of those full-circle moments, you know the ones that go squarely in the category of “career

KEEPING YOUR EDGE milestone.” Let me set the stage a bit: After weeks of preparation, I literally spent the *entire* day at the White House working alongside the administration as they hosted a final event for the then outgoing President of the United States. I work with a client who was going to be a special guest at the function, and because of my past experience working with political handlers and my grasp of logistics I was pretty integrated into the planning process very early on.

Beginning at 7am the day of the event, the first half of the day was spent doing what those of us in the craft know is the backbone of a successful assignment, the Advance. For anyone who has had dealings with the United States Secret Service, you know if you are permitted “inside the bubble,” it’s their show, their rules, and nowhere is that more apparent than at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. While there, you try and understand and follow the instructions, making sure you account for and eliminate anything that would cause you or your client to deviate from the plan. For example, if the arrival time is 6:00 pm, 6:05

pm might have you denied entry. Your Protectee forgot his government issued ID? You can have maxim clout and still not make it past the security checkpoint. However, in all my dealings with the logistics related to bringing a client to the White House, the most important is that you realize that your VIP, no matter who he or she is, is always going to be down the ladder from “THE VIP.” So, after five weeks of preparation, it’s “go time” and you have all your ducks in a row. You have gone over the necessary protocols, got your client through the checkpoints and onto the grounds, and feel honored to have played a small part in the protective equation. Afterwards, it will be wheels up and head home.

End of Story.

However, there was another part to this story: It’s a matter of public record that the outgoing POTUS held a farewell event and that the guest list was restricted and exclusive. While in the preparation phase, I was informed that absolutely no security would be allowed on the grounds with the exception

It’s a matter of public record that the outgoing POTUS held a farewell event and that the guest list was restricted and exclusive.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 of the USSS. I was prepared for that as was the client, as I mentioned, I had done this dance before. What I wasn’t prepared for was that in the 11th hour I was granted clearance by the powers that be. There was however one condition, I could not be working. Once my site advance and walk through was done during the first half of the day the ONLY security in the White House that night would be the Secret Service.

This invitation was a way of both sides saying “thank you” for the services I had done over the years. (I feel like I am getting close to bragging territory now, so if you know me, you know what services, and if you don’t that’s ok too). I was specifically told, “tonight you are not Elijah the security agent, you are Elijah the CEO of ICON.”

it out. I can also honestly say, I don’t impress easily, and well, tonight I was impressed.

With respect to OPSEC, all I’ll mention is I spent the next several hours as the definition of the fly on the wall, except the wall was the White House as the titans in politics, entertainment and business said farewell to the outgoing first family of the United States.

End of Story.

So, when the 2nd half of my day kicked in, I had to approach it with a whole new mindset. I’m a firm believer in the art of “Protective Invisibility,” so looking and acting the past was important to blending in. One eye on the Protectee, sparkling water in hand, I was up for the task. Let me end with this, I have been in the industry for over 20 years and have seen a lot of things. Interacting around the glitz and glamour, pomp and circumstance, is just part of the job, you filter Elijah Shaw is the National Director of the North American Bodyguard Association and an international security consultant.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

Surviving Sudden Violence: Enhancing Your Safety and Survival at the Airport By: Mark “Six� James CPO, EPS, CAS

When it comes to surviving sudden violence whether as the result of an active shooter or other civilian mass casualty incident, I always tell people it is more important to not get shot than it is to shoot, shooting is extra credit. So, when you think about negotiating an airport whether domestically or abroad what is your personal readiness level?

What is that of your family or client?

When they look at an environment or a situation, how well do they see primary and secondary exits? Do they know how to use angles and layers to their benefit?

Do they recognize cover? What could they potentially use as an improvised

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We know the three most conditioned responses to fear are fight, flight or freeze.

Without training, many defaulted to the freeze response.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 weapon in an emergency, since the TSAs prohibit you from carrying a weapon in the secure areas of the airport? Do they recognize the chokepoints which will restrict their movements and hinder their ability to escape? Do they know how to create their own fatal funnels to stage a controlled ambush if required?

Acts of terror and attacks at airports are not just limited to international travel as we have seen active shooters in the New York, Los Angeles and Ft. Lauderdale Airports. When I looked at video footage from the recent Ft. Lauderdale

Airport shooting that killed five (5) and injured six (6) it demonstrated that most people even in the face of extreme violence have little to no tactical survival skills.

As I viewed the video below please find a few of my observations: 1. Most had no orientation to the direction of gunfire, even when the gunman was right in front of them.

2. Many people were freezing in place. We know the three most conditioned responses to fear are fight, flight or freeze. Without training, many defaulted to the freeze response.

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SURVIVING SUDDEN VIOLENCE 3. People who were in the opposite direction of where the gunman was moving were attempting to take cover while exposing their backs to the direction of the gunfire.

4. Very few were attempting to create distance, to help increase the difficulty of the shooter to injure or kill more innocent civilians. Particularly since most shooters don’t shoot well over distance with handguns.

5. Some were laying prone on the ground attempting to take cover below the seated area, but the prone position gave them limited to no mobility with the gunman still in their immediate proximity.

6. Many were attempting to hold onto their luggage as opposed to leaving it to enhance their ability to escape and increase their mobility.

7. We also saw people walking with kids. This is a perfect example of why when we are in public

we should keep our kids close to us, and never let them run ahead. Think how easy it could have been for kids to have been cut off from their parents during the chaos and violence.

When it comes to surviving active shooter events (ASE), it is important to understand the tactical triad of Distance, Cover and Concealment, and that they are your friends.

Distance as we stated earlier increases the difficulty of the shot for the active killers.

Cover has ballistic stopping capabilities, while concealment serves to hide you from the view of the threat. For those who aren’t in protective services, law enforcement or military, they should consider taking a tactical firearm’s training class to get better oriented to gunfire, tactics to survive with or without a firearm and most importantly how to maintain situational awareness in the face of extreme and sudden violence.

If the first responders move you to areas such as the tarmac or hangers avoid taking cover in areas that may house flammable liquids such as jet fuel.

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 Be aware of people’s activities around you even in places where there is an expectation of privacy. While I am not looking to watch someone in the restroom take a whiz, be attune to something that stands out. And don’t be afraid to contact the authorities. It is reported the Ft. Lauderdale shooter went into the men’s room and retrieved his firearm from his checked luggage and loaded it.

shooters often pick soft targets with high crowd counts and a low presence of security, going forward we should demand of our public officials a higher profile presence of law enforcement at our airports to serve as visual deterrents to potential terrorists (foreign or domestic).

Understanding the Role of the First Responder The first response team will typically be a small unit of Despite what some may officers or may be a solo believe active shooters officer. They may be in while they may be evil or uniform or plain clothes but emotionally disturbed they will generally be identifiable are not super human. In as law enforcement either over 50% of the time the by uniform, badge or tactical shooter is terminated, the vest. Don’t expect first clear majority through responders to render first suicide, followed by being aid; their initial concern is killed by law enforcement. neutralizing the threat. So Even in the absence of a initially you will be on your gun, civilians are encouraged own. If the first responders to take action. Thirteen move you to areas such percent (13%) of the time as the tarmac or hangers they are restrained by avoid taking cover in areas unarmed civilians and only that may house flammable 4% of the time the event liquids such as jet fuel. is concluded by armed As those areas, could be citizens. So, despite the boobytrapped. political climate around CCW holder most of the time they International Terror are not on location when a While active shooters may be ASE occurs so the impact responsible for the majority is minimal. If you travel of civilian mass terror events internationally rarely will in the US, the international you be able to travel with tool of terror is explosives. a firearm so it is important Over 70% of the acts of to understand protective terror committed abroad strategies that involve involve IEDs. So as terrorist unarmed countermeasures. organizations try to recruit Also since most active or influence the activation of

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home grown terrorists our thinking around enhancing our protective capabilities must evolve.

multifaceted conventional weapons and tactics. These incidents may involve conventional weapons, the use of fire as a weapon, Understanding the chemical weapons, and/or Istanbul Airport Terrorist improvised explosives. The Attack terrorist in at the Turkish When we look at the terrorist airport used a combination attack at the Ataturk Airport of automatic weapons and in Istanbul, Turkey in June explosive vests to create the of 2016 that killed 45 people carnage. So, the go forward and injured 230, we saw the challenge for protectors and terrorists incorporated the travelers is to prepare for use of Hybrid Target Violence violent “hybrid� multi-threat (HTV), to increase the body- incidents. Attacks of this count. HTV is defined as nature defy conventional an intentional use of force thinking about protection to cause physical injury strategies involving active or death to a specifically shooters about the role of identified population using police, fire, and emergency

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CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35

medical professionals. HTV events demand cooperative strategies by both officials and private security entities to efficiently neutralize complex threats that are beyond the capacity of a single first responder discipline.

IED Precautions and Takeaways • Over 70% of all terrorist attacks outside of the US involve IEDs. • 15 – 20 lb. range is the largest size explosive a bomber can easily carry, particularly without altering their gate.

• Be cautious of people carrying backpacks or luggage that appears heavy.

• Be cautious of people carrying backpacks in places that are not normal.

• Be cautious of abandoned luggage immediately create distance particularly in heavily trafficked public places.

• Critical stand-off distance is 15 meters (100% mortality rate inside of 5 meters).

• If you see a IED you are already too close.

• If you suspect an explosive device do not use your phone within 50 meters.

• Suicide Bombers often have handlers. The handler’s job is to protect the bomber from LE, Military or armed Civilians.

We saw this at the theater in Paris.

• Suicide Bombers tend to detonate when confronted.

• Does the person you suspect as a potential bomber appear to be focused on someone or has just recently concluded a conversation with someone?

If you are in a building during an explosion, get your client or family member under some cover if debris are falling. Be attuned to a weakened structural system, be it, the floors, stairs or ceiling. Avoid using the elevators. Once outside move away from the building, glass and other potential dangers. Be conscious of a secondary blast.

If trapped under debris: Cover, Tap, Flash, Whistle.

Cover your mouth and nose to avoid inhaling dangerous gases. Use your flashlight to signal your location in low light conditions or at night. Avoid unnecessary movements to limit kicking

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SURVIVING SUDDEN VIOLENCE up dust which may impair your breathing. Tap on a pipe or wall to help signal your location. Use a Whistle to signal for help. The whistle will help conserve energy and the volume of the whistle is much louder than your shouting voice.

Uncontrolled Hemorrhaging When we look at civilian terrorist attacks, uncontrolled hemorrhaging will be the highest leverageable area that lifesaving intervention can take place in the initial moments of a terrorist attack. What medical supplies do you carry with you when you travel? What are the challenges with point of wounding care in an active shooter or suicide bomber situation? The biggest challenge is making sure the threat has been neutralized or you have gotten to a position of secure cover before treatment. If you can’t stay alive you can’t help anyone else. I dictate my supplies based on where we are going to available resources on location and the perceived risk. Most

airports have first aid kits to include AEDs etc. But take a Tactical Combat Casualty Care class to learn the science behind the treatment so even in the absence of a formal first aid kit you can understand improvised tools and aids which may assist you in treating yourself or others. However, I always have an individual first aid kit (IFAK) with me at all times when traveling. In the event of a continuation of a high threat event you may have to develop a causality evacuation/movement plan.

Before a you can take action to move a patient, you must develop a rescue plan to include: • the nearest cover • accessing the risk to the responder and locating the closest cover -deciding how to best move the injured person to cover.

HOPE WILL NEVER BE A PROTECTIVE STRATEGY, so do whatever it takes to survive. Please take the time to get training to learn how to be your own first line of defense. The life you save may be your own.

Mark “Six” James is Founder and Executive Director of Panther Protection Services, LLC. He is an internationally published author, keynote speaker, security consultant to educational institutions and frequent contributor to a number of print, broadcast and online media. Panther Protection Services is a full service protection agency focusing on Risk and Crisis Mitigation, Protective Services, Self-Defense Training, and Firearm Instruction. www.pantherprotectionservices.com

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United Kingdom 3D Security Ltd Taunton, Somerset, TA1 1TG Based in Taunton 3D Security provides security services for a wide range of clients.

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A.B.I. Solutions A.B.I Solutions is a dynamic, forward thinking company, specialising in surveillance, security and investigations with local, national and internationalexperience. A.B.I provides a wide range of services to the corporate sector and individuals alike.

W - www.abisolutions.co.uk Amanda Campbell A highly motivated and experienced female operative both CP and Surveillence training T – 07596542249 W - www.amandacampbell.org.uk E - ac@amandacampbell.org.uk Ambassador Security Management ASM MK Lions Arena, Grafton Court, Snowden Drive, Winterhill, Milton Keynes, MK6 1AJ, GBR. After successfully gaining ACS (Door Supervision and Manned Guarding) along with ISO 9000, we here at ASM have a dedicated management team with hundreds of years combined experience in the security industry.

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Mark Corder - Chief Executive of Carmdale Ltd Suite 3 219 Bow Road London E3 2SJ Mark is a former Senior Police Officer specialising in counter-terrorism; firearms; public order; training and also physical, Critical National Infrastructure and nuclear security, having had responsibility for the security of the UK’s nuclear deterrent. A former Head of Operations, Operational Support and Training, Mark has been involved in a number large-scale incidents (including 7/7) and has also worked at the Office for Security and Counter Terrorism (OSCT) at the Home Office as part of a review into Critical National Infrastructure security. Mark has an MBA via the OU. E: mark.corder@carmdale.co.uk T: +44 (0)844 995 9900 W: www.carmdale.co.uk Alastair Christie Advice on site security, perimeter fencing, lighting, CCTV and manning requirements.

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Ark Personal and Asset Protection Ark, 2b Crow Lane, Rochester, Kent, ME11RF, GBR A small, efficient, highly descrete company employing ex special forces and detectives for all civil and corporate covert needs.

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Control Risk Management Solutions CRMS - Ireland Executive Close Protection Operations & Training (B Tec Level 3 Diploma Edexcel) Threat & Risk Assessments, Consultancy Services.

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Argus Europe County Durham Argus Europe has been providing specialist training for high-net worth clients and their families for close to 20 years, worldwide.

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Crest Security & Surveillance Ltd 51 The Crest, West Heath, Birmingham, West Mids, B31 3QA, GBR Highly experienced Security Consultant with a proven record of accomplishment in the field of protective security. Skilled in all phases of risk assessment, operational planning, logistical organisation, implementation of security measures, security team leadership, project coordination, and delivery of security advice to a high profile clientele.

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Atlantian Business Solutions Group Rutland, LE15 6SD, GBR Atlantian Business Solutions has been

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CSI Protection Ltd International, GBR A well established security consultant and personal protection operative providing high or low Key protection to high risk and prestigious clientele. Specialising in the maritime industry as a consultant for private vessel protection on super yachts world wide.

W: www.csi-protection.co.uk E: gary@csi-protection.co.uk Custodia Custodia is an independent client focused Specialist Security & Risk Management Company, specialising in Risk consultancy and Security project management. Providing a comprehensive portfolio of Risk mitigation solutions to assist Businesses and individuals to plan for, manage and mitigate risk.

T: 01432 277693 W: www.custodia.co.uk DF Risk Management Solutions DF Risk Management Solutions N.I. is a modern, professional risk management company, with a diverse range of global strategic experiences and a team of executives who possess dynamic but complementary backgrounds.

T: +44 (0)7837642686 +44 (0)7758743918 W: www.dfriskmanagementsolutionsni. com Executive Protection Officer Worldwide CP services W: www.executiveprotectionofficer.com First Class Executive Security Nottingham, UK, Nottingham based, fullservice company specializing in Bodyguards and Security Consulting services. Extensive experience in VIP security, also caters for public and private sectors.

W: www.firstclasssecurity.co.uk T: 0115 9266466 G6 Global G6 are specialists in all types of radio, telephony and satellite communications for both voice and data with particular emphasis on covert communications installations in both vehicles and fixed locations. In addition, our range of personal covert radios and bespoke accessories is extensive.

W: info@g6-global.com T: +44 (0)1454 610050 Gordon Russell Highly trained frontline Close Protection Operatives available for UK and International contracts. Our experienced CPO’s can offer bespoke packages to meet all clients needs, including a variety of language skills. All SIA licenced, BBA member E: Bodyguard-cpo@Email.cz T: +44 (0)7917 281 004 Gareth Evans - CPO, MSO Reliable dedicated hard-working

CIRCUIT MAGAZINE ISSUE 35 security professional, with outstanding communication skills. Strategic approach to problem solving combined with exceptional interpersonal skills, quick to grasp new concepts and information. Highly motivated, results-driven and thrives under pressure.

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E : evansgareth1979@yahoo.co.uk T : +44 (0)7900058603 James Izett All close protection task undertaken, including training tasks. Medic (Registered with the HPCSA, Registered FAAW instructor and Assessor E : J.Izett@gmail.com T : +971 (0)505 574 350 Janice Gurney Proficient and diligent Security Professional gaining extensive knowledge and experience within the security sector. Proactive individual who has a logical, flexible and conscientious approach to all challenges undertaken, ability to work as a member of a team or as an individual willing to work anywhere.

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W: www.icost-team.com T: +44 796 736 55 65 IPSS Security Northfield, Aberdeen, AB16 7EX Security and protection services - UK and overseas. BBA Member.

T: + 44 (0) 1224 69455 W: www.ippssecurity.co.uk ISS Training Ltd Riverside Cottages, Nidd Walk, Pateley Bridge, Harrogate, HG3 5NA ISS Training Limited are providers of specialist covert surveillance training courses and publications to the security and investigative industries, enforcement agencies and specialist military units.

Formed in 1990, we are the longest established surveillance training ompany in the United Kingdom. Our credibility and reputation is widespread and we offer nationally recognised qualifications. BBA Member.

T: + 44 (0) 1423 712265 W: www.intelsecurity.co.uk Jason Morris Security Hertfordshire, UK Providing a wide range of Door supervision/ security for V.I.P and prestige venues, Concerts, Functions, Corporate and Personal Security, Weddings, Private Parties, Gala Dinners, Business Awards & School Proms, Close Protection and Body Guarding Static Guarding and Stewards.

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John Featherstone Security professional with operational experience gained in a variety of theatres.

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T: 0845 643 6393 E: info@k9support.org.uk Logas International Tyne & Wear, SR1, GBR Front line SIA, International CPO. Private Investigation and Surveillance operator.

E: wscarr@logasinternational.com MLK Security and Protection Services Swindon, UK Close Protection Officer and Door Supervisor E: mattleekane@hotmail.com T: 07917654978 LJE Security Services North Yorkshire, HG1, GBR Close Protection, Residential Security, Asset Protection, VIP red carpet Security and Private Investigation.

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TEL: 0870 974 6779 W: www.oneevents.info Paul Lovatt – CPO After serving 15 year in the Army a move to the Security Industry was a natural step, during the last 10 years I have worked in almost every role in the industry from Door Supervisor and loss prevention to Operations Manager and Director. I have been responsible for the creation and implementation of highly successful crime reduction schemes across Yorkshire working closely with other agencies in the areas of responsibility. Currently I am responsible for the overall running of large events security teams from stewards to Close Protection Officers. Operational planning, contingency planning and flexibility are I feel among my key strengths.

E : paul@deltasecurity-eventmanagement. co.uk T : +44 (0)7506726336 Paul Tyler – VIP Protection & Concierge Specialist in discreet personal protection & surveillance. A good current working knowledge of London & its challenges gained through ongoing high risk security operations. Experienced in dealing with high net worth clients with all matters security & concierge striving go the extra mile to exceed expectations through

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thorough planning & interaction with all involved parties. A strong communicator with a smart appearance who remains synonymous with the principals lifestyle, whilst discretely ensuring a safe environment is maintained at all times, physically capable of adopting a higher profile when required to do so. Demonstrates sound judgement and capability to operate with great levels of autonomy. Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to understand, interact & connect with a diverse range of people.

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T: 0800 002 9734 E: info@presencesecurity.co.uk Prestige Risks LTD 27 Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N, 3AX, GBR. Close Protection Secure Chauffeurs Surveillance Residential Security Executive Protection Security Guards Asset Protection T : +44 (0)207 5588182 E : info@prestigerisks.com W : www.prestigerisks.com Prometheus Medical Ltd Prometheus deliver unrivalled bespoke emergency medical support in the form of specialist equipment, training, strategic advice and deployed clinical care.

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E : mattleekane@hotmail.com Radoslav Savkov - CPO / Security Consultant Oxford - United Kingdom I would introduce myself as a high calibre Security professional with strong customer oriented skills and managerial experience in the Security Industry, interested in a challenging position, which would fully utilize competences gained and provides opportunities for professional and personal development. With 15 + years of international experience in the sector at all levels and a military background (National Service) as well as a practical Close Protection experience in an executive environment, corporate intelligence and investigations. As a Security professional, I never consider my training and development as a complete, therefore I always look to update further my skills and knowledge.

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T: 07850091979 or 07792948523 W: www.rsmsecurity.co.uk E: info@rsmsecurity.co.uk RWSSI Rob W is a professional security consultant with world wide experience and capabilities in Security, Surveillance and Investigation; I can support you to overcome any problems and enable you to achieve your goals E: rob@rwssi.co.uk T: +44 (0)7818 220985 SDS Solutions SDS solutions provide our clients with protective solutions that are second to none, our consultants will discuss every aspect of the problems that you are facing that dictate the need for a protective solution, we promise our clients a tailor made service to meet individual requirements. Whether based in the UK or abroad our protective service T: 01453 887815 E: info@sds-solutions.org

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E : mark@claydon-smith.com T : +964 (0)7815 970433 Philip Shearman MSyl – CPO, Risk Manager A professionally Qualified Close Protection and Surveillance Operator and Team Leader with over twenty two years of experience gained in the Military Police, the last fifteen of which were spent with the Military Police Close Protection Unit, working in various hostile countries throughout the world.

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E : benshearman10@hotmail.com T : +44 (0)7930 277586 Spotllght Protection Services Essex based business which provides a broad and growing range of security services to businesses and organisations large and small.

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extensive experience in the fields of special operations, intelligence, counter terrorism and close protection.

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T : +44 (0) 7734101910 E : info@tacticalprotectionteam.co.uk W : www.tacticalprotectionteam.co.uk Security Concierge Group SCG Special Projects Ltd, Avenida, Bartolome Vicente Ramon No 10, B16, Ibiza, 07800, ESP Security Concierge Group is a privately owned and fully independent provider of exceptional security services to an interesting and varied range of clients.

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T: + 55 (11) 3452 4388 W: www.detectivelacerda.cjb.net Giovanni Rossi South Africa Doctorates in Criminology, Vessel Security Officer, ASP Instructor, ISSPC Member, BBA Member, IAPPA Member, American Bodyguard and Protection Instructors Association - Lifetime Member E: rossi1@mweb.co.za T: +2783 415 9205 USA Global Bear Protection PO Box 11488, Jackson, Wyoming, 83002, USA Provision of British and US Ex Special forces security/medical specialists.

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The Team: Editor Managing Editor International Editor Art Direction

Shaun West Jon Moss Elijah Shaw Peter Falkous

Contributors: Mark “Six” James Joseph M LaSorsa Miguel DeCoste Dr Liz Royle Dr Amy Burrell Joseph M LaSorsa Orlando Wilson Jacquie Davis Einar Myklebust Joseph M LaSorsa Kate Owen Jon Moss

Icon Services Corporation 1043 Grand Ave. #312, St. Paul, MN 55105, USA A full service security and investigative agency specializing in providing high-level security and bodyguards to international celebrities, public figures and corporations.

Licensed, bonded and insured, our diverse roster of clients reads as a virtual who’s who in the corporate, motion picture, fashion and recording industry. Entering into our 10th year, Icon has been the hand picked choice to provide Executive Protection to everyone from Superintendents to Supermodels. BBA Member.

T: + 1 651 695 8778 W: www.Industry-Icon.com Imperial Protective Service, LLC 15849 N. 71st Street, Suite 100, Scottsdale , Arizona, 85254, USA Imperial Protective Service’ (IPS) is a security consulting and services firm founded in 1978. IPS provides both national and international corporate, executive and celebrity protective services. BBA Member.

T: + 1 480 281 1588 W: www.executiveprotect.com Panther Protection Services 3695F Cascade Road, Suite 2207, Atlanta, GA 30331 Panther Protection Services is a full service protection agency offering such services as threat assessment, executive protection, self-defense training, firearms instruction, and high risk tactical protection. Our executive protection specialists have over 75 years of experience. Panther can handle your protection needs whether around the corner or around the world. Member: BBA and NABA T: (404) 349-9117 W: www.pantherprotectionservices.com Rouven Rohler - Security Consultant / HSE liaison Romania I am a very fit and mentally robust Security Specialist with quality experience gained in the security (Military, Maritime and Commercial Operational Security (Oil& Gas). I have improved the effectiveness of protection teams and significantly enhanced clients’ awareness. My career commenced in the Australian Army, which included hostile environment deployments to Iraq and the Solomon Islands and I have since been operating on various contracts throughout Afghanistan and Iraq. I am now looking to make a continued significant contribution within similar High Risk contracts.

E: rouven@y7mail.com T: +40 (0)746 642 739 Our Sincere Thanks to all those that continue to contribute their wisdom and experience for the enjoyment of others The Circuit is compiled, edited and published in the UK and US bi-monthly.

W: www.circuit-magazine.com E: info@circuit-magazine.com T: +44 0191 645 0865

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SILVER STAR PROTECTION Executive protection, site and event security with global experience. Serving southern Minnesota with integrity and professionalism. Former USSS, ICON Alumni. available for domestic and international travel. Robert E. Jones Manager/CEO W: www.silver-star-protection.com E: rejones@silver-star-protection.com TSICS (T6) Miami, Florida, USA TSICS (T6) provides the following services in Central America: Executive Protection, Individual Bodyguard, Close Protection Training, Corporate Invest.

W: www.security-professionals.org/ members/saldrix E: tsics.t6@gmail.com T: +502 6645 6822 Tony Scotti’s Vehicle Dynamics Institute 1162 St. Georges Ave, Suite 277 , Avenel, NJ 07001, USA The first name in advanced driver training, offering our highly acclaimed Protective/ Evasive Driving Programs. Designed specifically for today’s executive chauffeurs, executive protection professionals and others who are responsible for providing safe and secure transportation services. BBA Member.

T: + 1 732 738 5221 W: www.vehicledynamics.net Vindex Personal Protection & Investigation Inc. 497 Hooksett Rd #365 Manchester NH 03104 603.289.3161 / Full service Private Investigations & Executive Protection. 10 years combined Law Enforcement, Private security, close protection work, & security contracting. NY Mayors, U.S. President’s, NFL owners, and VIP’s are some of the protection work I’ve gained experience with. ICON alumni, NABA member.

T: + 1 732 738 5221 E: vindexinc@aol.com W: www.vindexinc.com Asia Pacific Asia Protective Group Ltd Asia Protective Group (APG) is a Hong Kong based risk management company, specializing in executive protection, overseas travel security and security consultancy services. APG has an extensive network of security specialists operating throughout the Asia Pacific region.

W: www.asia-pg.com E: jim@asia-pg.com E: yvonne@asia-pg.com DISCLAIMER While every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is both accurate and up-to-date, The Circuit accepts no liability in any part for loss or damage incurred by reliance on information contained in this magazine through omissions, errors, howsoever caused. ©COPYRIGHT Copyright remains with the authors and contributors at all times. No part of this publication can be copied or reproduced in any way whatsoever without permission from the publisher AND the author / contributor.

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