"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."
Why Paying Attention to Your Surroundings Could Save Your Life in an Active Shooter Situation
Active shooter incidents happen fast. In most cases, the entire event is over within minutes long before law enforcement can arrive. That means your ability to notice danger early and react quickly could be the difference between safety and tragedy.
At A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training, we emphasize the importance of situational awareness as the foundation of survival. When you know what to look for, you can act decisively and protect yourself and others.
What Is Situational Awareness?
Situational awareness is the ability to observe your environment, recognize what's normal, and spot what's not. It means being present and attentive rather than distracted or complacent.
In an active shooter scenario, those first few seconds of awareness can give you the critical head start you need to escape, hide, or defend yourself.
Why It Matters
Faster Reaction Time
When you've already identified exits and obstacles, you can respond instantly instead of hesitating in confusion.
Early Threat Detection
Many attackers display suspicious behaviors before acting, such as unusual clothing, nervous movements, or carrying something bulky inappropriately. Spotting these cues early allows you to move away or alert authorities.
Reduced Panic
People who practice awareness are less likely to freeze. Having a mental plan of action helps you stay calmer under stress.
Protecting Others
Being alert doesn't just keep you safe, it allows you to warn and guide others to safety too.
Situational Awareness in Action
Here are simple steps you can practice daily to sharpen your awareness:
- Identify Exits: Whenever you enter a building, note at least two ways out.
- Scan the Room: Take a mental snapshot of who's around and what they're doing.
- Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, take it seriously and reposition yourself.
- Stay Unplugged: Limit distractions like phones, headphones, or deep focus on screens in public spaces.
How A.L.I.V.E. Training Reinforces Awareness
Situational awareness is the first step in the A.L.I.V.E. Method:
- A - Assess: Constantly evaluate your surroundings for potential threats.
- L - Leave: Move quickly toward safety when danger is detected.
- I - Impede: Block or barricade if you cannot escape.
- V - Violence: Fight back with commitment if necessary.
- E - Expose: Share information with first responders when safe.
Awareness makes every other step possible; you can't leave, impede, or defend yourself if you don't see the threat coming.
Take the First Step Toward Preparedness
You can't control when or where violence happens, but you can control how prepared you are. By practicing situational awareness and learning the A.L.I.V.E. survival method, you can dramatically improve your chances of staying safe in an active shooter event.
Contact Us Today to schedule training for your workplace, school, or organization.
Stay aware. Stay prepared. Stay A.L.I.V.E.
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.