CONCLUSION

Don’t let your guard down. Stay vigilant and pay attention to the world around you. If something seems out of place — or makes you feel off — there is probably a good reason for it. Security professionals often call this situational awareness, which is just a fancy way of saying that you understand the environment and events around you in relation to time and meaning, knowing what is normal and expected, and what is out of context and therefore noticeable. And if you notice something that looks out of place or your Spidey senses start tingling because you observe an unattended bag or an individual who is dressed inappropriately for the environment and looks uncomfortable, let someone in authority know.

We do not want you to live your life in fear. That’s what the bad guys want — whether bullies, criminals, or terrorists. Go out with friends. Attend concerts and movies. Travel. Live your life. We are just advocating that you go out in that life a little more prepared, and more aware of what the risks are or may be. A slightly harder target than the average person. Someone more likely to survive when faced with various threats. This is possible because you have taken the time to pay attention, assess, build a plan, and be prepared to act on it.