Las Vegas and Situational Awareness

Mandalay Bay by a full moon - Las Vegas, NV

Mandalay Bay

We were saddened to hear about the tragedy in Las Vegas. Our prayers are with all those devastated by such an unthinkable act.   When something like this happens, we all must take time to reflect and examine what we would do if put  in the same circumstance. Many of the stories we are hearing from survivors have the common theme of staying aware and staying calm.

Situational awareness is a tactical term that requires you to be aware of your surroundings. In a case like Las Vegas, where you are in a crowd and exposed from above, you need to think about  1) What is your exit strategy? 2) Where is your safety zone?

You don’t know where a concern will come from. In a building, you need to know where the nearest exits are. Out in the open, you need to be aware of multiple routes of exit.

A safety zone is a place where you can barricade or shield yourself from explosion or gun fire. Remember stay calm, and help those near you if it is safe to do so. If there is a clear line of exit to a safer place like your car or emergency response go there. Otherwise, stay in place until you can verify your safety.

PDM