"Michael Julian has written an excellent book. Practical, detailed, and a potential life saver if you find yourself in the midst of a targeted attack."

Tips for the Proper Handling of a Firearm
Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, security personnel, or a responsible civilian gun owner, proper handling of a firearm is not optional—it’s a life-saving skill. At A.L.I.V.E., we believe that education and safety go hand in hand. If you choose to carry or use a firearm, follow these fundamental guidelines to ensure safety for yourself and those around you.
1. Always Treat Every Firearm as if It’s Loaded
This golden rule of firearm safety applies in every situation. Never assume a gun is unloaded, and always check the chamber yourself. This mindset prevents negligent discharges and reinforces safe habits.
2. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until Ready to Fire
Your trigger finger should always rest outside the trigger guard, indexed along the frame, until you are ready to shoot. This single habit prevents most accidental discharges.
3. Never Point a Firearm at Anything You Don’t Intend to Destroy
Be mindful of where your barrel is aimed at all times. Even during cleaning or storage, ensure your firearm is pointed in a safe direction—typically down and away from people.
4. Know Your Target and What’s Beyond It
In a high-stress situation, tunnel vision is natural—but dangerous. Always be aware of your surroundings, your target, and what lies behind it. Bullets can over-penetrate or miss, creating collateral damage.
5. Secure Your Firearm Properly
When not in use, store your weapon in a locked safe or with a trigger lock—especially if children or unauthorized users are present. Responsible gun ownership includes secure storage.
6. Train Regularly
Owning a firearm is not enough. Train consistently to maintain your skills under pressure. A.L.I.V.E. offers active shooter response training that includes firearm awareness and response strategy as part of a broader survival mindset.
7. Understand the Legal Implications
Firearm laws vary by state and situation. Know your rights and responsibilities as a gun owner, including when—and when not—to use deadly force. A wrong decision can carry lifelong consequences.
Knowledge Saves Lives
At A.L.I.V.E., we empower individuals with the tools, mindset, and training to survive violent encounters and make smart decisions under pressure. Whether you’re a civilian or a professional, proper firearm handling is a critical component of surviving and responding to active shooter situations.
Hear From An A.L.I.V.E. Student Survivor Of The Las Vegas Massacre
"As a retired 32 year law enforcement veteran, with several years of SWAT and tactical experience, I learned some different unique perspectives as it pertains to civilians dealing with active threat situations. Very good class for civilians who may have never experienced reacting to a life and death stressful situation."
- Christopher C.
A.L.I.V.E. STANDS FOR:
Assess
Assess the situation quickly
Leave
Leave the area if you can
Impede
Impede the shooter
Violence
Violence may be necessary
Expose
Expose your position carefully for safety
INDUSTRIES WE SERVE
Corporations
Government
Healthcare
Places of worship
Schools & Universities
Venues
MICHAEL JULIAN
Creator of A.L.I.V.E.
A.L.I.V.E., which stands for Assess, Leave, Impede, Violence, and Expose, was created in 2014 when Michael began teaching his Active Shooter Survival philosophy throughout the United States. His book on the subject, 10 Minutes to Live: Surviving an Active Shooter Using A.L.I.V.E. was published in 2017 and the online version of the A.L.I.V.E. Training Program was launched in 2019 and is now part of the corporate security training program for companies throughout the world.

Why A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter
Survival Training Program?
The A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training Program is a comprehensive training program designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to survive an active shooter incident. Its emphasis on situational awareness and decision-making makes it a practical and effective approach to active shooter situations. By empowering individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and others, the program can help prevent tragedies and save lives.