Have you learned, trained, and prepared enough?
Without making any New Year resolutions, where I tend to fall short, I have looked at certain areas where I would like to increase my knowledge and skill. I am a person that lives my life wanting to be as prepared for whatever comes my way.
Though we cannot predict the future, we know according to the environment we live in, the possibilities of certain things happening around us. One thing that came to mind is the possibility of being in a place where a medical emergency incident occurs. Even though I have emergency medical knowledge and training, sitting through a recent “Stop the Bleed” class reminded me of what I had forgotten.
The class also updated me on procedures that have changed and equipment that has been updated. Have I taken my medical training far enough? And at what point do I realize I have reached my limit?
I want to know emergency medical care like I know firearms and tactical shooting. I think the two go hand in hand. During all my CCW classes I always tell the students that if you are going to have a firearm for self-defense then you had better have some emergency medical training. Gun fights do not always go on the side of the good guy.
I do not have enough time to learn, train and prepare for every aspect of life. I need to prioritize what is important to me and dive deep into those areas. I want to be able to protect those around me when the time comes, that also means fixing them the best way possible if they are injured. At least good enough till I can get them a higher level of care.
If you have a firearm for self-defense then you should be trained like a warrior. That will increase the possibility that you will win the fight if you are faced with one. Someone once said, “It’s better to be a Warrior in a garden, than to be a gardener in a war.” Warriors know how to help their team.
I have heard many people make the statement that even if they do little it is better than nothing. Ok, I agree, but isn’t it much better to do much more? Wouldn’t it be better if you increased your knowledge and skill more? Then you can do more to help. Remember, the skill might be used in self-care.
Fifty percent or more of my students that take intermediate and higher courses carry an IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) with them during training. Usually, like mine, strapped to their battle belt. This is the belt that holds their holster, mag holders and whatever else they need to train. When you reach a certain level, you begin to realize that in self-defense, comes possible injuries.
What level are you at with your shooting skills? Do you just shoot at the range or have you gained knowledge and training in self-defense shooting. They are two different worlds.
I have written extensively about self-defense shooting. Just happens to be my favorite type of shooting and training. Is your skill level high enough to allow you to train on how to go on the offense?
Victim, Defender, or Hunter. You will fall into one of these categories during a critical incident. The Hunter goes on the offense. The Hunter searches out the threat to stop the threat.
This takes a lot of specialized training and a different type of mindset. This should be the goal of a protector.
Do not cut yourself short, train to be the best protector that you can be. Trust me, many around you are depending on it. And do not think that a firearm ensures that you will not get injured, train to survive that also. Get the basic emergency medical training, then, get some more. If you have a firearm for self-protection, you have already accepted the fact that something might happen. Be prepared if things do not go 100% your way.
Firearms and emergency medical training will boost your readiness and confidence as a Protector. Keep reaching for your far enough.
NEVER STOP TRAINING!
For questions regarding my article, please email me at
[email protected]
Oz Johnson/Lead Instructor, NRA Certified
Karin Johnson/Operations Manager
J-G-T.com
602-410-7355
TRAINING ADVISORY
Concealed Carry Permit Training planned at Ben Avery Shooting Facility
Public encouraged to learn Firearms Laws
Cave Creek, Arizona –Johnson Group Tactical will offer Concealed Carry Permit Training on Sunday, FEBRUARY 2nd from 1:00 – 4:30 PM for people interested in securing a Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Permit. The class, which costs $79, will be held in the DPS Classroom at Ben Avery Shooting Facility, which is located at 4044 W. Black Canyon Blvd, Phoenix. Discounts are available for military and first responders. The class does not include the $60 application fee to AZ DPS for the final permit.
“We believe in preparation and situational awareness. We teach tactical mindset,” says Oz Johnson, founder: “It’s the ability to have the thought process that comes with training and experience by using your cognitive thinking to quickly determine your next course of action.
Carrying a Concealed Weapon (CCW) is the practice of carrying a weapon in a public place, in a concealed matter, either on one’s person or in close proximity.
“If forced to draw your gun in self-defense, you must know exactly what to do next” says Karin Johnson. “It’s about making the right decisions.” This class meets the requirements for those who want to obtain their Concealed Carry Permit. Regardless of whether you choose to get your permit, the education provided is beneficial for all Responsible Armed-Americans.
Johnson Group Tactical is a veteran-owned firearms training company headquartered in Arizona. Oz Johnson, a veteran, and an NRA instructor spent 10 years in the military and 20 years in law enforcement with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Johnson also served on SWAT for seven years and is a former POST certified firearm, rifle and building clearing instructor. Johnson Group Tactical, a husband-and-wife team, has a special focus on women and new handgun owners. Classes range from beginner to advanced as well as concealed carry weapon (CCW). Johnson Group Tactical is a member and official partner of USCCA.
The business can be reached at [email protected] or by calling 602.410.7355.
