Take a look at this surveillance video showing a violent assault. This attack could have been avoided with better situational awareness and just a few simple actions to move the victim out of harm’s way.
In the video, a customer at the counter of a fast food franchise is viciously attacked and knocked unconscious with a single punch as he waits to order his food. How could this have been avoided? From the standpoint of situational awareness and conflict avoidance, a little bit of good old Midwestern “nice” would have changed the game completely. The man who became the victim of this crime should have said, “No, sir, you go ahead and order. I haven’t decided yet.” That would have changed the positioning of the two men. Taking a step back from the counter and allowing the other person to go first also would have put him in a better tactical position.
Or the victim could have taken a step to the side, giving the aggressor more space. This would have required the aggressor to take at least one more step to get closer before throwing the punch. These are just a couple of elements that can help you avoid ending up on the receiving end of such a violent sucker punch. But always remember this: Situational awareness without action does not help you.
Always Be Thinking
The odds of being attacked might be very low, but the stakes are so very high. If you carry a gun every day, think about your surroundings and make sure you put yourself in the best possible position to deal with a sudden assault.
