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.