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14th Edition
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2. How to Develop the Situational Awareness of Jason Bourne part 2
Brett & Kate McKay • February 5, 2015 • Last updated: August 25, 2021
Observe: Stay in Condition Yellow
In his seminal book, Principles of Personal Defense, gun-fighting expert Jeff Cooper laid out a color code system to help warriors gauge their mindset for combat scenarios. Each color represents a person’s potential state of awareness and focus:
For optimal situational awareness, Cooper recommends that we always stay in Condition Yellow.
Condition Yellow is best described as “relaxed alert.” There’s no specific threat situation, but you have your head up and you’re taking in your surroundings with all your senses. Most people associate situational awareness with just visual stimulation, but you can also learn a lot about a particular scenario from the sounds (or lack thereof) and even smells in the environment.
Even though your senses are slightly heightened in Condition Yellow, it’s also important to stay relaxed. By adopting a calm demeanor, you won’t bring any unnecessary attention to yourself. If you look antsy and your head is swiveling frantically while you scan your surroundings, people are going to notice you. Additionally, staying relaxed ensures that you maintain an open focus, which allows you to take in more information about what’s going on around you. Research shows that when we get nervous or stressed, our attention narrows, causing us to concentrate on just a few things at a time. A narrow focus can therefore cause us to miss important details in our environment.
Situational awareness isn’t just for times when your enemy is of the human variety…
Look up from your smartphone, don’t zone out, open your eyes, ears, and nose, and calmly scan your environment to take in what’s going on.
Besides staying in Condition Yellow, here are a few more tips to improve your observational abilities:
Put yourself in a position for optimal observation. To achieve effective situational awareness, you need to be able to observe as much of your surroundings as possible. Positioning yourself in obstructed spots will inhibit the flow of information coming in. For example, something might be in your way that prevents you from seeing a bad guy enter a theater or restaurant. You also don’t have eyeballs in the back of your head, so you can’t see what’s going on behind you.
So whenever you enter an environment, put yourself in a position that will allow you to see as much as you can. My buddy Mike Seeklander at Shooting Performance recommends finding a place where you can view all or most of the exit points, and that allows you to put your back to the wall. This position readies you to make a quick getaway, and eliminates the possibility of failing to see a threat materialize behind you.
Granted, this isn’t possible in all situations. You don’t have much control as to which table a restaurant hostess seats you at on a busy night, and you’d likely get a lot of strange looks if you stood with your back in a corner while you’re waiting in line at Five Guys. So do your best within the given circumstances. In that busy restaurant, you might not have control of your table location, but you can choose which seat you take. Pick the chair that gives you the best view from your table. When you’re standing in line at a fast food restaurant, just nonchalantly look around and take in the scene.
Hone your observation skills by playing the A-Game. Mike plays a game with his kids called the “A-Game,” or Awareness Game, to help them (and himself) strengthen their observational skills. To play, when you go into a business, make note of a few things about your environment: the number of workers behind the counter, the clothing and gender of the person sitting next to you, how many entry/exits there are, etc. When you leave and get into the car to head home, ask your kids questions like “How many workers were behind the counter?” “Was the person sitting next to us a man or a woman?” “What color was his/her shirt?” “How many exits were there?”
It’s fun to play, but more importantly it’s training your kids (and you) to be more mindful of their surroundings.
Master memorization. Another fun activity that will help improve your situational awareness is to practice memorizing things. Bourne knew all the license plate numbers of the cars outside the diner. You can gain this skill by practicing with a deck of cards, or strings of numbers. Here’s a guide on how to gain the ability to memorize anything you want.
Orient: Baselines, Goals, and Action Plans
Being more observant isn’t enough to master situational awareness. You have to know what you’re looking for, and then put that information into context so it has meaning and becomes actionable. That’s where the Orient phase comes into play.
The Orient step provides three things to help us achieve situational awareness: 1) baselines and anomalies for our particular environment, 2) mental models of human behavior we should look for, and 3) plans of action depending on our observations.
Establish a Baseline Wherever You Go
Every environment and person has a baseline. A baseline is what’s “normal” in a given situation, and it will differ from person to person and environment to environment. For example, the baseline at a small coffee shop will usually entail people reading a book or working on their computer or speaking in hushed tones with their friends. The baseline at a rock concert would be loud music and people looking at the stage while either jumping up and down to the music or swaying their bodies to the beat.
We establish baselines so that we can spot anomalies. According to Patrick Van Horne, situational awareness expert, instructor of the Marine Combat Profiling system, and author of Left of Bang, “Anomalies are things that either do not happen and should, or that do happen and shouldn’t.” Anomalies are what direct our attention as we take in our surroundings and what we need to focus on to achieve situational awareness.
So the first step in orienting ourselves is to establish baselines so that we can direct our attention to anomalies. How do we do that on the fly? Van Horne suggests that you mentally ask yourself these questions every time you enter a new environment:
Baseline Questions: What’s going on here? What’s the general mood of the place? What’s the “normal” activity that I should expect here? How do most people behave here most of the time?
Anomaly Question: What would cause someone or something to stand out?
Until next time, keep your head on a swivel, check your six, and keep your back to the wall.
Source: https://www.artofmanliness.com/character/behavior/how-to-develop-the-situational-awareness-of-jason-bourne/
3.Weekly Poll
Last week’s poll results
Last week we asked: How good is your situational awareness?
Responses: We had 8 responses on last week’s poll:
37% of respondents voted I am like Jason Bourne
63% of respondents voted Good enough to keep out of trouble
4. Interview Q & A
This week’s topic will address the question of: Radio etiquette?
Radio Etiquette: Best Practices for Effective Communication Over Two-Way Radios
In many industries, from security and emergency services to construction and logistics, two-way radios are an essential tool for communication. These devices allow teams to coordinate quickly and efficiently, often in challenging environments. However, effective communication over two-way radios is not just about having the right equipment—it's also about understanding and practicing proper radio etiquette. Following on from the use of the phonetic alphabet, this article will explore the key principles of radio etiquette to ensure clear, concise, and professional communication.
The Importance of Radio Etiquette
Radio etiquette is crucial for several reasons:
1. Clarity and Precision: In situations where seconds count, such as during emergencies or critical operations, clear and precise communication can make a significant difference. Proper radio etiquette ensures that messages are understood the first time, reducing the risk of errors.
2. Professionalism: Whether you are in a security role, part of a construction crew, or managing logistics, maintaining professionalism in your communications reflects well on your organisation. It fosters respect and trust among team members and with external parties.
3. Efficiency: Good radio etiquette helps to minimize unnecessary chatter, keeping the communication channel open for essential messages. This is particularly important in busy environments where multiple teams may be using the same frequency.
Key Principles of Radio Etiquette
To ensure effective communication over two-way radios, it’s essential to follow these key principles of radio etiquette:
1. Keep Messages Clear and Concise
- Plan Your Message: Before pressing the push-to-talk (PTT) button, think about what you need to say. Aim to convey your message as clearly and concisely as possible. Avoid using long sentences or unnecessary details.
- Use the Phonetic Alphabet: When spelling out words, particularly names, codes, or acronyms, use the phonetic alphabet to avoid misunderstandings. For example, "Alpha" for A, "Bravo" for B, and so on. We covered this in last weeks edition.
2. Identify Yourself and the Recipient
- State Your Call Sign: Begin each transmission by identifying yourself and the intended recipient. For example, "Bravo Team, this is Alpha One." This ensures that the message is directed to the right person or group.
- Acknowledge Receipt: When you receive a message, acknowledge it by repeating back key information or simply stating "Copy" or "Roger."
3. Use Standard Phrases and Terminology
- "Over": Indicate that you have finished speaking and are awaiting a response.
- "Out": Signal that the conversation is complete and no response is expected.
- "Stand By": Request the other party to wait before responding.
- "Say Again": Ask for a repetition of the last message if it was unclear.
4. Avoid Unnecessary Talk and Interruptions
- Stay on Topic: Only transmit messages that are necessary and relevant to the operation or situation at hand. Avoid personal conversations or irrelevant chatter.
- Wait for a Clear Channel: Before speaking, listen to ensure the channel is clear and that you’re not interrupting another conversation. Interrupting can cause confusion and disrupt the flow of communication.
5. Speak Clearly and at a Moderate Pace
- Enunciate Your Words: Speak clearly, avoiding mumbling or speaking too quickly. A moderate pace ensures that your message is easy to understand, even in noisy environments.
- Use a Calm Tone: Even in high-pressure situations, maintain a calm and composed tone. Panic or raised voices can make it harder for others to understand your message.
6. Know When and How to Use Emergency Codes
- Understand Your Organisation's Codes: Many organisations use specific codes to communicate quickly and discreetly in emergencies. Familiarise yourself with these codes and know when to use them.
- Priority Messages: If you have an urgent message, preface it with "Priority" or another recognised term to indicate that your communication should take precedence over others.
Mastering radio etiquette is essential for anyone using two-way radios in a professional setting. By following these guidelines—keeping messages clear and concise, identifying yourself, using standard phrases, avoiding unnecessary talk, speaking clearly, and knowing emergency codes—you can ensure that your communications are effective, professional, and contribute to the success of your team’s operations.
Remember, good radio etiquette is not just about following rules—it’s about fostering clear, efficient, and respectful communication that enhances teamwork and ensures that everyone stays on the same page, especially in critical situations. Whether you’re coordinating a security detail, managing a construction site, or handling logistics, proper radio etiquette is a key component of your communication toolkit.
5. The different career options available in the security field
This week we discuss the role of Security Managers
The Role of Security Managers: Duties, Responsibilities, and Impact
In the modern security landscape, the role of a Security Manager is pivotal to ensuring the safety and protection of assets, people, and information within an organisation. Security Managers are the strategic leaders behind the planning, implementation, and management of security policies and procedures. Their work goes beyond day-to-day operations, involving the development of comprehensive security strategies that align with the organisation's broader objectives.
The Role of a Security Manager
A Security Manager is responsible for overseeing the entire security function within an organisation. This role requires a deep understanding of risk management, security technologies, and regulatory compliance. Security Managers not only manage the security team but also act as advisors to senior management on all matters related to security. Their decisions and actions have a direct impact on the organisation’s ability to protect itself from both internal and external threats.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Developing and Implementing Security Policies
- Policy Creation: One of the primary responsibilities of a Security Manager is to develop security policies that cover all aspects of the organisation’s operations. This includes access control, surveillance, data protection, and emergency response protocols.
- Policy Enforcement: Security Managers ensure that all security policies are communicated effectively and enforced across the organisation. This involves regular audits and reviews to ensure compliance and to identify areas where improvements are needed.
2. Risk Assessment and Management
- Conducting Risk Assessments: Security Managers are tasked with identifying potential security risks through regular assessments. These assessments cover physical security, information security, and operational vulnerabilities.
- Risk Mitigation Strategies: Based on the findings of risk assessments, Security Managers develop and implement strategies to mitigate identified risks. This might involve upgrading security systems, implementing new technologies, or refining existing procedures.
3. Managing Security Personnel
- Team Leadership: Security Managers are responsible for leading and managing the security team, which may include security supervisors, guards, and technical staff. They ensure that all team members are adequately trained and equipped to perform their duties.
- Performance Monitoring: Regularly evaluating the performance of security personnel is a key duty. Security Managers provide feedback, conduct performance reviews, and implement development plans to maintain high standards of security.
4. Coordinating Security Operations
- Operational Oversight: Security Managers oversee the day-to-day security operations, ensuring that all activities are carried out efficiently and in line with established policies. They coordinate the response to any security incidents and ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect the organisation.
- Emergency Response Planning: Part of their role involves developing and maintaining emergency response plans. Security Managers ensure that the organisation is prepared to respond effectively to emergencies, such as fires, natural disasters, or security breaches.
5. Liaising with External Agencies and Stakeholders
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Security Managers often work closely with local law enforcement and emergency services. They coordinate efforts to investigate security incidents and ensure that the organisation’s security practices align with legal requirements.
- Engaging with Stakeholders: They also engage with various stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and contractors, to ensure that security requirements are understood and met by all parties involved.
6. Budget Management
- Financial Oversight: Security Managers are responsible for managing the security budget. This includes allocating funds for security personnel, equipment, training, and other necessary resources. They ensure that the budget is spent effectively to maximise the organisation’s security posture.
- Cost-Benefit Analysis: Part of budget management involves conducting cost-benefit analyses to determine the most effective and efficient ways to enhance security. Security Managers make informed decisions about investments in security technologies and personnel.
7. Staying Informed About Industry Trends
- Continuous Learning: The security landscape is constantly evolving, with new threats and technologies emerging regularly. Security Managers must stay informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes to ensure that their organisation’s security measures remain up-to-date and effective.
- Training and Development: Security Managers often attend industry conferences, workshops, and training sessions to enhance their knowledge and skills. They may also encourage their team members to pursue continuous learning opportunities.
The Importance of Security Managers
Security Managers play a critical role in safeguarding an organisation’s assets, people, and reputation. Their strategic approach to security ensures that the organisation is well-prepared to handle any threats that may arise. By developing and enforcing robust security policies, conducting thorough risk assessments, and leading a competent security team, Security Managers provide the foundation for a secure and resilient organisation.
In industries where security is paramount—such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing—the presence of a skilled and experienced Security Manager is indispensable. Their ability to anticipate risks, respond to incidents, and adapt to changing conditions makes them a vital part of the organisation’s leadership team.
The role of a Security Manager is multifaceted and demands a high level of expertise, leadership, and strategic thinking. As the security landscape continues to evolve, the responsibilities of Security Managers will only become more critical. For organisations looking to strengthen their security posture, investing in a competent Security Manager is a crucial step towards ensuring long-term safety and success.
The police are slowly getting replaced in South Africa
By Malcolm Libera 9 Aug 2024
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has experienced a concerning decline in its workforce over the past decade while the private alternative is booming.
Official statistics indicate that the number of active SAPS members has dropped from 193,297 in 2011 to around 180,000 in 2023.
This reduction of over 13,000 officers has placed considerable strain on the police force, already grappling with high crime rates and limited resources.
Several factors contribute to this decline. Budget constraints have reduced the recruitment and training of new officers, while many experienced officers have retired or left the force due to poor working conditions, low morale, and inadequate compensation.
Additionally, administrative inefficiencies and corruption within the police force have further exacerbated the attrition rate.
The impact of the dwindling police numbers on crime levels is profound. With fewer officers available, SAPS’s ability to respond to and prevent crime has been severely compromised.
For instance, response times to incidents have increased, providing criminals with more opportunities to evade capture.
Furthermore, the lack of police visibility in communities has emboldened criminal activities, leading to a surge in crimes such as theft, assault, and homicide.
The 2022/2023 crime statistics paint a grim picture. Violent crimes have risen significantly, with murder rates increasing by 8.6% compared to the previous year.
Armed robberies and sexual assaults have also seen substantial increases. The reduced police presence is a critical factor in this escalation, as the deterrent effect of a robust police force is diminished.
Urgent action is required to address this crisis.
The SAPS is being replaced
According to Tony Botes, the National Administrator at the Security Association of South Africa (SASA), and Jackson Simon, the National Coordinator at the Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa (PSOSA), private security is booming in the country due to climbing crime statistics.
Continue reading here: Source: https://businesstech.co.za/news/government/785961/the-police-are-slowly-getting-replaced-in-south-africa/
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