Episode 2: Observations with Emily Valentine
Emily Valentine lives in an urban area ¬– Washington D.C. to be precise – and every day she sees people going about their lives, purposefully unaware of the world that's happening around them. That, she says, is a big mistake.
Valentine, who runs the Style Me Tactical blog, was the second guest presenter on SOG's "Observations With” seminar series. She led a discussion on embracing situational awareness, something she says many of her fellow residents of the nation's capital seem little to care about.
"Because I live in a city environment, I see it all the time," Valentine said as she began the discussion. "People are using headphones and their heads are constantly buried in their phones. It's the way we live these days. It adds another level of distraction and you can easily miss what is happening around you." Being unaware, said Valentine, is what sets most people up to be unable to avoid a dangerous situation or makes them a target for crime.
Valentine went on in her presentation to explain why it's important to put the phone down and pay attention. Your life just might depend on it.
You can watch Emily Valentine’s full presentation here.
Take note of your surroundings
Situational awareness, said Valentine, needs to be practiced in every environment you're in. Whether that's your commute, your work or your backyard. "The foundation of situational awareness starts with seeing and observing," she said. "What do you see? What do you hear? What do you notice that might be off?"
What's not normal?
In her talk, Valentine spent some time explaining some of the cues that might signify something is about to go wrong. "I can't tell you what's normal for your environment, only you know that," Valentine said. But ultimately, if what you see, hear, smell or feel seems off, it's prudent to be on high alert, she said.
What are your vibes?
Sure, situational awareness starts with taking in information, but Valentine said it's also important to know what information you're giving out. With social media it's easier than ever to show the world where you are and who you're with, but that's not always a good idea, she said. "What you share matters," Valentine said. "It's about taking ownership of your personal safety.
Measuring your response
Valentine, who explains in-depth her favorite everyday carry essentials on her blog, highlighted the need to try to avoid danger and conflict wherever and whenever possible. "Your last resort is your self-defense tools," said Valentine. "I understand if I use these tools in a defensive situation there is a responsibility that comes with that."
Color code your life
Finally, Valentine talked about the color codes of awareness, from white being a place of comfort to red being a state of danger. Ideally, said Valentine, most of us should go about life in a "yellow stage" – aware of our surroundings and those that are near us, but rarely ever laser-focused with worry.
View the first installment of "Observations With” featuring journalist and adventurer Jason H. Harper.
