Author name: David DiBella

Founder of Mindful Defense

Molly Tibbetts
Situational Awareness

The Mollie Tibbetts Tragedy: Were Attack Indicators Present?

The nation has been riveted by the disappearance of Mollie Tibbetts, a college student from Iowa who mysteriously disappeared while jogging in a small, rural community. Cristhian Bahena Rivera, age 24, has been arrested on first-degree murder charges in connection with the case. Although it’s very early to determine what exactly happened, information is starting to trickle in via media reports. Were attack indicators present that could have been processed and acted upon to alter the outcome of this tragedy? Most likely there were multiple.

Home Security Cameras
Home Safety

Home Security Cameras: What You Need To Know

It is often said that the most important part of a home security system is the alarm company signage that is prominently displayed letting everyone know your home is being monitored. What may be even better than that? Home security cameras recording the sights and sounds of everything on or near your property. Few things will deter someone approaching your home with bad intent more than the sight of security cameras. Criminals know that modern home security cameras record video, instantly alert homeowners and provide clear images to law enforcement.

Walking Trail Safety
Situational Awareness

Walking Trails: Are They Safe?

Walking trails are attractive to all walks of life. They provide a scenic path for joggers, dog walkers, cyclists and those just wanting to have a beautiful place to explore and enjoy. Walking trails are off the beaten path. They are often secluded, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But are they safe? It is the same traits that make walking trails attractive that also make them dangerous.

Do Not Be An Easy Target
Self-Defense

5 Things That Make You An Easy Target

When bad people decide to do bad things to good people, they interview them first. This is an interview you want to make sure you fail. Criminals are opportunistic. They adapt and act on a moment’s notice when an easy target presents itself. Criminals will “interview,” or run potential victims through a checklist to determine if they are easy prey. Here are some common things an aggressor will look for when deciding to take action.

Off-Body Carry
Self-Defense Weapons

Off-Body Carrying of a Firearm: Don’t Do It

Off-body carrying of a firearm is simply carrying your weapon in a manner that it is not attached to your body in a fixed, stable location. Off-body carry includes things like purses and stowing a gun under the seat of your car. Off-body carry has many drawbacks, many of which will render your firearm inaccessible in the dynamics of a lethal force confrontation. For the average citizen, off-body carry should be a last resort.

Calling For Help
Self-Defense

Calling For Help: Alerting Others You Are In Trouble

Calling for help seems like it would be one of the most basic, natural things one could do. You scream bloody murder and the cavalry comes running to your rescue, right? The truth of the matter is, there’s a good chance no one will hear you, and if they do, they won’t help you. Most people will not want to intervene in a violent situation, or may simply assume someone else will help.

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