In this critical Red Dot Mindset™ episode, we tackle one of the most terrifying threats of modern life—active shooter situations. But instead of panic, we offer preparation.
Using FBI data, ALERRT’s Avoid | Deny | Defend framework, and insights from security professionals including Cade Courtley and Grey Matter Ops™, we break down what civilians need to understand before a crisis ever unfolds.
This episode places special emphasis on Avoid as the first and best option—decisive escape with intent. Getting off the X, creating distance, and using dispersion when escape is possible dramatically increases survivability by breaking the attacker’s momentum and forcing decision-making.
Inside this episode, we cover:
How the active-shooter threat is evolving
Common attack locations and observable warning signs
Why situational awareness must be portable and habitual
Why Avoid means escape fully—not hiding nearby
How Deny functions as a contingency when escape is blocked
What Defend truly means as a last-resort survival action
How to train your mind under stress using combat breathing and the OODA Loop
What to do when law enforcement arrives
Why Stop the Bleed readiness and basic trauma tools matter
This is not about fear.
It’s about control, action, and survival.
Resources Mentioned:
ALERRT Civilian Trainin
Grey Matter Ops™ philosophy and training
“What you do matters.”
Train the mind. Win the fight.
Red Dot Mindset™ is powered by Grey Matter Ops™.
Remember: Awareness is Armour.
