Protection in Times of Unrest: Why Security Details and Active Shooter Training Matter More Than Ever
In an increasingly unpredictable world, large-scale protests and demonstrations have become more common. While many of these gatherings begin peacefully, the potential for escalation is always present. In such volatile environments, professional protection is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
Whether you're a journalist in the field, a business executive attending a public event, or a company with property and personnel exposed to risk, a well-trained protection detail can be the difference between safety and vulnerability.
Why Protection Details Matter During Mass Protests
Protests, by their very nature, attract large crowds, heightened emotions, and varying agendas. An organized march can turn into a chaotic or dangerous scene in a matter of moments due to external provocateurs, aggressive counter-protesters, or a sudden law enforcement response.
A protection detail, whether armed or unarmed, offers more than physical security. It protects individuals in the field, secures personal and work-related property, and defends the interests of a business or organization. When representing a news station, activist group, corporation, or even attending as a private citizen, your presence in these settings requires a customized security strategy.
Armed vs. Unarmed Protection: Which is Right?
The decision between armed and unarmed protection depends on the nature of the risk, the client’s profile, and the legal environment of the region. Armed protection is best used when there are credible threats of violence or known bad actors in the area, offering features like firearms training, rapid response capability, and a strong deterrence factor. On the other hand, unarmed protection is ideal when the priority is crowd navigation, maintaining a low-profile presence, or working in a non-permissive environment, focusing on conflict de-escalation, strategic extraction planning, and situational awareness.
Regardless of the level of force involved, what matters most is the training, experience, and professionalism of the team providing protection.
When Protection Isn't Present: The Power of A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training
As effective as protection teams are, they can't be with you 24/7. Anyone can be caught in a crisis, such as a protest gone wrong, a workplace attack, or an active shooter event. This is why personal preparedness is just as vital as physical protection.
Michael is a certified and trained A.L.I.V.E. Active Shooter Survival Training program instructor. A.L.I.V.E. is a powerful, five-step survival strategy designed to equip individuals with life-saving skills in the face of violence.
What is A.L.I.V.E.?
- A – Assess: Quickly identify whether a threat is real and determine the best course of action.
- L – Leave: Evacuate immediately if it's safe to do so. Distance is your best defense.
- I – Impede: If you can't leave, use barriers or blockades to slow the attacker down.
- V – Violence: As a last resort, commit to defending yourself with speed, aggression, and focus.
- E – Expose: Once safe, contact authorities and help others as you secure your location.
This training applies not only to active shooter situations but also to terrorist attacks, violent workplace incidents, and other potentially deadly scenarios.
Situational Awareness: Your Everyday Armor
While formal training is crucial, it starts with a mindset. Being vigilant, observant, and mentally prepared can buy you precious seconds—and those seconds can save lives.
To stay aware in high-risk environments, consider these tips:
- Scan your surroundings and identify exits immediately.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, act.
- Avoid distractions, especially in public or crowded areas.
- Practice mental “what if” scenarios to reinforce preparedness.
Final Thoughts: Plan, Protect, and Prepare
In uncertain times, relying solely on law enforcement or hoping for the best is not enough. Whether you're facing mass protests or an unexpected threat of violence, your best defense is preparation.
- Deploy protection details when risk is elevated, particularly during high-profile events or in volatile locations.
- Ensure staff, leadership, and individuals receive Active Shooter Survival Training like A.L.I.V.E.
- Promote a culture of awareness, vigilance, and readiness within your organization or community.
Security isn’t paranoia—it’s proactive. When done right, it ensures you’re not just reacting to a crisis but staying one step ahead of it.
Let's Talk Protection and Preparedness
As a certified A.L.I.V.E. instructor and Michael Tapling is a seasoned security professional. He is able to offer:
- Armed or unarmed protection details for protests, events, or sensitive operations.
- Active Shooter Survival Training workshops for teams and individuals.
- Customized security consultation and risk assessment planning.
Whether you need to protect people, property, or peace of mind, let's build a plan that keeps you safe.