Colonel Jeff Cooper and his Color Codes of Awareness
In the world of self-defense and personal security, Colonel Jeff Cooper stands out as a legendary figure whose contributions have left an indelible mark. One of his most enduring legacies is the development of the Color Codes of Awareness that we here at Goldbar Defense are proud to use as an Official Partner with the USCCA. The Color Codes of Awareness is a simple, yet highly effective system designed to enhance an individual’s situational awareness. Let’s delve into the life of Colonel Jeff Cooper and explore the significance of his color-coded approach to personal safety.
The Man Behind the Method:
Colonel Jeff Cooper (1920-2006) was a distinguished American firearms instructor, author and Marine Corps officer. Renowned for his expertise in the field of firearms and combat training, he is known as the Father of the “Modern Technique” of Pistolcraft. Cooper was an author, columnist, professor, WWII, and Koren War veteran. Cooper is responsible for the development of the four safety rules gun practitioners use. Cooper founded the American Pistol Institute know today as Gunsite Academy in Paulden Arizona, in 1976.
Even though modern techniques have changed Cooper will always be remembered as an early pioneer in the art of Pistolcraft. Cooper is quoted saying “my advice isn’t for everyone. Its primarily for legally armed citizens who refuse to be victims.’’ His extensive military experience and commitment to personal defense education laid the groundwork for the development of the Color Codes of Awareness.
Color Codes of Awareness:
The Color Codes of Awareness are a set of four mental states that Cooper identified to help individuals assess and respond to potential threats. These states are represented by different colors and serve as a guide to one’s level of awareness in any given situation. Let’s explore each color:
1. Code White – Unaware and Unprepared: In the White State, an individual is oblivious to their surroundings and potential threats. This is a state of complete relaxation, often occurring during routine activities like walking down the street or engaging in familiar tasks. Today we can blame smart phones for causing a lot of people to zone out and be in an almost constant state of White. In this state, the person is highly vulnerable as they are not mentally prepared to respond to sudden danger.
2. Code Yellow – Relaxed State of Alertness: Yellow is the ideal state for everyday activities. In the state, individuals maintain a relaxed yet attentive mindset. They are aware of their surroundings, potential threats, and escape routes. Yellow is a proactive state where one is mentally prepared to respond to emerging situations. Significantly reducing the element of surprise.
3. Code Orange – Aware of a Specific Alert: Moving into the Orange state, an individual identifies a potential threat. This could be a suspicious person, unusual behavior, or any sign that raises concern. In this phase, individuals heighten their focus on the potential threat without necessarily escalating to a confrontational mode. The goal is to gather more information and formulate a plan to avoid the situation or fight if necessary.
4. Code Red – Action Must be Taken: The Red state is the final phase, triggered when a confirmed threat is imminent. In this stage, the individual has made the decision to take action to neutralize the threat. This could involve using self-defense techniques or, if armed, employing a firearm or edged weapon. The Red state is a response to a clear and present danger that could not be avoided, decisive action is taken which it crucial to personal safety.
Application in Everyday Life:
The Color Codes of Awareness just like situational awareness is not exclusive to military, law enforcement, or security personnel. Colonel Jeff Cooper designed this system for everyday individuals seeking to enhance their personal safety. As stated before, Goldbar Defense is an Official Partner with the USCCA and uses Col. Coopers Color Codes of Awareness in all of our training practices. By adopting this color-coded mental state, anyone can develop a proactive mindset, reduce vulnerability, and be better prepared to respond to potential threats in various environments.
Colonel Jeff Cooper’s Color Codes of Awareness remain a cornerstone in personal safety education. This simple yet powerful system provides a framework for individuals to cultivate a heightened sense of awareness, allowing them to navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence and resilience. By understanding and applying the Color Codes, people can take an active role in their own safety, making the legacy of Colonel Jeff Cooper a lasting contribution to the field of self-defense. Allow Goldbar Defense to guide you in mastering the art of de-escalation, self-defense, protection of your loved ones, and proficient firearm operation-all while enhancing your overall situational awareness.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC
Breaking Barriers: Church Security IS a Ministry
In an era where safety concerns are paramount, churches are increasingly recognizing the need for security measures to ensure the well-being of their congregations. However, the concept of church security extends far beyond physical barriers and surveillance systems; it transforms into a ministry that nurtures a sense of safety, trust, and spiritual well-being within the community. Many times, church security gets overlooked as a ministry. There are two reasons for this. The first one is, churches get charged more by their insurance companies if they have a security team. To ensure they do not get that extra charge security teams are referred to as safety teams, critical response teams, or not listed at all and just made up of random people every week. The second reason is a church security team is seen as just that security nothing more nothing less. You have a group of people who simply watch over the church and congregants, what’s special about that? Nothing if you just look at it that was. Because of these reasons church security is not always seen as a ministry team.
The Holistic Approach to Church Security:
While traditional security measures such as surveillance cameras, trained personnel, and access control systems are essential components of church security, a holistic approach involves more than just physical safety. It encompasses a ministry that addresses the emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being of the congregation. Not all churches have money to drop on a simple camera system, door lock system, or state of the art security systems. With a holistic approach your church doesn’t have to have money to feel safe. People on the security team can be trained how to spot potential threats and proper communication with everyone at the church whether they’ve been there for years or they are simply showing up for the first time.
1. Creating a Welcoming Environment: A secure church is one that fosters a welcoming environment. This involves more than just having security personnel at entrances; it requires a commitment to making every individual feel valued and safe. Greeters, ushers, and volunteers play a vital role in creating a warm atmosphere that reflects the love and acceptance central to the church’s teachings.
2. Pastoral Care and Counseling: Church security extends to providing emotional and spiritual support. Trained pastoral care teams can offer counseling services, creating a safe space for individuals facing personal challenges. By addressing emotional well-being, the church becomes a refuge for those seeking solace and guidance. If we help people early on, then they are less likely to become a threat to themselves and congregants in the future.
3. Training and Education: Empowering the congregation with knowledge on safety measures and emergency protocols is a crucial aspect of church security ministry. This proactive approach not only prepares the community for potential threats but also fosters a culture of responsibility and awareness. If everyone know what their job is when an emergency happens, then it is easier to start evacuations and everyones panic level is lower. If people know they serve a purpose and have a job to do in the case of an emergency, many times they will rise to the occasion surprising themselves.
4. Community Engagement: Building relationships within the community is an integral part of church security ministry. By actively engaging with the congregation and surrounding neighborhoods, the church establishes a network of support and communication that goes beyond physical security measures. Start having weekly or monthly bar-b-ques and get to know the community your church is in. You will be surprised how open people are when you start talking to them and actually care what they say and how they think. Start to see the community as friends not just people who live by the church.
5. Inclusive Worship Services: A secure church is one that ensures everyone can participate in worship without fear or hindrance. This may involve accommodating individuals with disabilities, providing resources for those facing economic hardships, and creating an inclusive space that celebrates diversity. You may not agree with someone’s lifestyle choices, but keep in mind they are at church. They are seeking something, and God will work on them just like he’s worked on all of us. Who are we to stand in the way of someone seeking Christ.
The Spiritual Dimension of Church Security:
The essence of church security as a ministry lies in its connection to the spiritual journey of the congregation. Recognizing that true security comes from a deeper, spiritual foundation, church leaders can integrate faith-based practices into their security initiatives.
1. Prayer and Spiritual Vigilance: Incorporating prayer into security practices fosters a sense of divine protection. Encouraging the congregation to participate in prayer initiatives for the safety of the church and the church community creates a spiritual bond that transcends physical barriers.
2. Teaching and Applying Biblical Principles: Church security as a ministry involves grounding its practices in biblical principles of love, compassion, and community. By teaching and applying these principles, the church becomes a living example of its faith, demonstrating that security is not just about physical protection but about embodying the teaching of Christ.
In conclusion, church security is not a standalone function but a dynamic ministry that intertwines physical safety with spiritual well-being. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses the emotional, relational, and spiritual dimension of security, churches can create a sanctuary that goes beyond mere protection, embracing the true essence of community, love, and faith. As churches continue to evolve in their understanding of security, the integration of these principles will undoubtedly contribute to a more secure and spiritually enriched congregation with Christ at its center.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Pastor Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC
The Power of Situational Awareness can Enhance Your Everyday Life.
It all begins with an idea.
Do you want to set yourself apart from others?
Have you ever wondered what sets successful individuals apart from the rest?
What enables these people to make quick decisions, adapt to changing circumstances, and stay safe in potentially dangerous situations?
In this blog, we will explore the concept of situational awareness, its importance, and how you can develop and apply it to enhance various aspects of your life.
What Is Situational Awareness?
Situational awareness is the ability to perceive, comprehend, and predict events and circumstances in your environment. It involves not only being aware of what is happening around you but also understanding the potential implications of those events. This skill is not just reserved for law enforcement, military, and security personnel; it’s a valuable asset for everyone to have and use in their daily lives.
The Importance of Situational Awareness:
1. Personal Safety: Situational awareness is crucial for personal safety; it helps you recognize potential threats and avoid dangerous situations. Whether you’re walking alone at night, traveling, or simply going about your day, being aware of your surroundings can prevent accidents and potentially harmful encounters.
2. Decision-Making: Those with strong situational awareness tend to make better decisions. By understanding the context and implication of a situation, you can make more informed choices, both in your personal and professional life.
3. Communication: Effective communication relies on being attuned to your surroundings, whether in a business meeting or social gathering, being aware of the non-verbal cues and the atmosphere can improve your interactions and relationships.
4. Crisis Management: In times of crisis, situational awareness is invaluable. It allows you to assess the situation and respond appropriately, whether it’s a medical emergency, a natural disaster, or unexpected events in daily life.
Developing Situational Awareness
1. Observation: Start by improving your observation skills. Pay attention to details, people’s body language, and environmental cues. Practice looking beyond the surface of things. Observe people, look at what they are wearing and how they are acting. For instance, is someone wearing a hoodie in the summer when its hot outside. Or you might see a bulge under someone’s jacket or shirt, this could be a firearm, knife, or maybe nothing.
2. Stay Informed: Keep up with current events and news. Understanding the larger context of the world can help you anticipate potential changes in your environment.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness and meditation practices can help you become more present in the moment, which is a key component of situational awareness.
4. Scenario Planning: Mentally play out different scenarios in your head and think about how you would react to each one. This sexercise can enhance your ability to predict potential outcomes.
5. Make a Game: It can be scary to think of different scenarios that may happen and how we would like to react to those scenarios. One thing that can help you is making a game out of it. I like to quiz my family. When we sit down at a restaurant, movie theatre, go to the grocery store, or to our local farmers market, I like to ask them questions like:
Where are the exits?
How many exits are there?
Anyone look suspicious?
If someone started some trouble, where would you go?
Why would you go there?
If we were to set up a family meeting spot in case something bad happens, where would it be and why?
Applying Situational Awareness
1. Daily Life: In your everyday routine, be conscious of your surroundings, and practice being aware of the people and objects in your environment. This can help you avoid accidents and make better decisions.
2. Driving: When driving, remain attentive to other drivers, road conditions, and potential hazards, this can prevent accidents and road rage incidents.
3. Work and Business: In professional settings, situational awareness can help you navigate office politics, make effective decisions, and contribute positively to your workplace.
4. Travel: When traveling, be aware of cultural norms, local customs, and potential safety concerns. This will not only enhance your experience but also keep you safe.
In conclusion, situational awareness is a powerful tool that can elevate your personal safety, decision-making, and overall quality of life. By developing and applying this skill, you can stay ahead of the curve, make more informed choices, and enjoy a greater sense of control in an ever-changing world. So, start practicing today, and watch how situational awareness transforms the way you experience life.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC
The Power of Situational Awareness and Your Church: How to Prevent Violent Attacks in Your Church.
It all begins with an idea.
In an ideal world, places of worship, like churches, should be sanctuaries of peace and serenity. They should be off limits to violence or violent acts. Unfortunately, violent attacks on religious institutions have become a tragic reality in recent years. However, through situational awareness and strategic planning, congregations like yours can take proactive steps to enhance security and reduce the risk of such incidents. In this blog, we will explore the facts surrounding violent attacks in churches and provide practical strategies for prevention.
Understanding the Threat
I have heard people in churches say, “why should we be armed, we need to trust God and He will protect us”. I simply say “if you feel you don’t need protection because God will protect you, then why evangelize? God will save everyone anyway”. Let’s look to scripture for the answer:
Luke 22:35-38 35 And He said to them, “When I sent you without money bag, knapsack, and sandals, did you lack anything? “So, they said, “Nothing.”36 Then He said to them, “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. 37 For I say to you that this which is written must still be accomplished in Me: ‘And He was numbered with the transgressors.’ For the things concerning Me have an end.”
Even Jesus knew that his Disciples would need to defend themselves even though they were sharing the Gospel. We must keep this in mind ourselves, we will encounter bad people.
It’s essential to recognize the threat of violent attacks in churches to better prepare for them:
1. Alarming Statistics: According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Religious institutions are increasingly targeted by violent attackers, in recent years, there has been a significant rise in church shooting and violent incidents.
2. Vulnerable Gatherings: Churches often bring together large groups of people, making them potential targets for individuals with harmful intentions.
3. Soft Targets: Religious institutions are considered “soft targets” due to their welcoming and open nature, which can be exploited by attackers. You want your church to be a “hard target”. This means you are still welcoming and open, but your church has taken the appropriate safety measures to try and prevent a violent act. Having a police vehicle posted outside your church will ensure people intent on doing harm will see your church as a hard target. Criminals prefer soft targets over hard targets every day.
4. Gun Free Zone or Weapons Free Zone: Now this may make people feel safe, but the reality of the matter is, it will not keep your congregation safe.
A. A person who is intent on hurting others will not obey the rules you put in place for your church.
B. Making your church “Gun Free” affects how your congregation can respond to an active shooter. The reality of the matter is the only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.
Strategies for Preventing Violent Attacks
1. Create a Safety Team or Critical Response Team: Establish a security or safety team within your congregation, consisting of volunteers or hired professionals, ensure they receive appropriate training in security and emergency responses.
2. Implement Access Control: Limit access to the church during services and events. Consider installing security systems, access control mechanisms, and surveillance cameras.
3. Situational Awareness Training: Provide situational awareness training for your congregation. Teach them to recognize suspicious behavior and encourage reporting of such observations to the security team or local authorities.
4. Emergency Response Plan or Emergency Operations Plan: Understand the difference between fight and flight adrenaline. Develop and communicate clear emergency response plans for various scenarios. Ensure that everyone in the congregation is aware of the procedures in case of an emergency. Mike Tyson once said, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” The same can be said for an emergency plan. If you do not practice what you put in place, it will not work when you need it to.
5. Security Assessments: Conduct regular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and areas for improvement. These assessments can help in enhancing the overall security of your church.
6. Communication Systems: Establish a reliable communication system that can be used to alert the congregation and authorities in the event of an emergency.
7. Law Enforcement Collaboration: Build a relationship with local law enforcement and inform them about your safety measures and plans. They can provide valuable insights and assistance in case of an emergency.
8. Mental Health Support: Address the mental health needs of your congregation. Encourage open discussions and provide resources for mental health support to prevent individuals from reaching a breaking point.
What’s the Good News?
1. Texas Church Shooting 2019: In White Settlement, Texas, a volunteer security team member stopped a shooter at a church, preventing a potential tragedy. This highlights the importance of having a well-prepared security team in place.
2. Goldbar Defense: Has worked with various churches and will work with yours to improve the security measures and help you prevent violent attacks. We will train you in hand to hand combat as well as firearms. You can take several of our classes to become more proficient and secure. We offer special group discounts to churches.
While it is unfortunate that we need to address the topic of violent attacks in churches, it is important to have situational awareness and be proactive with your security measures. By staying informed, prepared, vigilant, and training often, your congregation can significantly reduce the risk of violence and create safer environments for worship and community gatherings. The facts are clear, and it is our duty to protect our places of worship and those who attend them.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC
The Power of Situation Awareness: Staying Safe Day or Night
It all begins with an idea.
In a world filled with uncertainties, crime prevention should be a top priority for all of us. While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, one powerful tool that can significantly reduce your vulnerability to crime is situational awareness. It’s a mindset and a set of practices that help you stay vigi8lant and make informed decisions. In this blog, we will explore how situational awareness can help prevent us from becoming victims of crime, whether it’s day or night.
Daytime Safety
1. Know Your Surroundings: During the day, you might feel relatively safe, but this doesn’t mean you should let your guard down. Awareness of your surroundings is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the area you’re in and pay attention to notable landmarks and exits. By knowi8ng your surroundings, you can respond more effectively if you sense something is amiss.
2. Body Language: Nonverbal communication can be a powerful tool. Being aware of your body language can deter potential criminals. Walk confidently, maintain eye contact with those around you, and stand tall. Criminals often target individuals who appear vulnerable or distracted.
3. Trust Your Intuition Also Known as Your Gut: Your gut feeling is a valuable tool. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t, trust your instincts and take action accordingly. Whether it’s crossing the street, entering a store, or calling someone for assistance, don’t ignore that inner voice.
4. Avoid Distractions: During the day, distractions are abundant. Smartphones, music players, and even deep conversations can limit your awareness of your surroundings. Minimize distractions when in public spaces to maintain a higher level of situational awareness.
Nighttime Safety
1. Lighting is Key: Nighttime presents additional challenges, as reduced visibility can make you an easier target. Stick to well-lit areas and carry a flashlight or use the flashlight feature on your phone if you have no other options. Having a light will help you navigate dimly lit streets or parking lots/garages.
2. Travel in Groups: There is safety in numbers. When possible, travel with friends or family, especially in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. Criminals are less likely to target a group of people than an individual.
3. Plan Your Route: Before heading out at night, plan your route and share it with someone you trust. This way, if you don’t arrive at your destination as expected, someone will know where you were supposed to be and that something might be wrong.
4. Self-Defense Preparations: While situational awareness is your best defense, its also a good idea to be prepared for the worst case scenario. Consider taking self-defense classes, carrying personal safety devices (pepper spray, taser, firearm, knife) or even installing a personal safety app on your phone. Knowing you have a means to protect yourself can boost your confidence and deter potential threats.
Situational awareness is a powerful crime prevention tool that works day and night. By making it a habit to be aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts, and take simple precautions, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of a crime. When you start to analyze your surroundings, you will realize while it might be quicker to take the ally as a short cut to your vehicle its definitely safe to take the long way that’s well lit. While it’s not always possible to prevent every crime, having the mindset and skills to stay alert and make informed decisions can empower you to take control of your personal safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and situational awareness is a key step in that direction. Stay vigilant and you will most likely stay safe.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC
The Power of Situational Awareness at Sporting Events: Stay in the Game
It all begins with an idea.
Attending a live sporting event can be an exhilarating experience. Think about it you have the anticipation, the roar of the crowd, and the intensity of the game or the fights you are watching, all of these factors create unforgettable memories. However, amidst all the excitement, it’s crucial to maintain situational awareness to ensure your safety and make the most of the event. In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of situational awareness at sporting events and provide practical tips to help you stay safe and fully enjoy the experience.
Remember in our previous blogs we talked about situational awareness and how important it is. Situational awareness (for those who might be reading this blog and not know) is the ability to perceive, comprehend, and predict events in your immediate environment. It involves being fully aware of your surroundings, understanding potential risks, and making informed decisions based on the information available. When attending a sporting event, situational awareness can be your greatest asset, serving several essential purposes:
1. Safety: Prioritizing your safety and the safety of those around you is paramount. Situational awareness helps you identify and respond to potential hazards or emergencies promptly.
2. Enjoyment: Being tuned into what’s happening both on and off the field or inside and out of the ring will enhance your overall enjoyment of the event. You won’t miss a crucial play, punch, kick, throw, exciting moment, ect. Or the performance of your favorite athlete.
3. Respect: Demonstrating good sportsmanship includes respecting fellow attendees, situational awareness enables you to be considerate of those around you, ensuring a positive experience for all.
14 Key Aspects of Situational Awareness at Sporting Events
1. Know the Venue: Familiarize yourself with the venue’s layout, including the location of your seats, exits, restroom, and concession stands. This knowledge will help you navigate the area with ease.
2. Event Schedule: Stay informed about the event’s schedule, including start times, breaks, and any anticipated delays. This ensures you won’t miss a moment of the action.
3. Weather Conditions: If the venue is outside keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress appropriately. Prepare for potential weather-related disruptions that might affect the event.
4. Security: Pay attention to security measures like bag checks and the presence of security personnel. If you notice anything suspicious, promptly report it to event staff or security.
5. Crowd Behavior: Be aware of the crowd’s behavior. If things start to become unruly or aggressive, consider moving to a safer location. Always maintain good sportsmanship and respect for others.
6. Emergency Services: Familiarize yourself with the location of first aid stations and medical personnel. Know how to contact security or medical assistance in case of an emergency.
7. Personal Belongings: Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving bags, wallets, or electronic devices unattended.
8. Seating and Surroundings: Pay attention to the people sitting around you and their behavior. In stadiums, exercise cation when standing or moving to avoid tripping hazards.
9. Alcohol and Substance Use: In this day and age of legalized Marijuana you need to abide by the rules regarding alcohol consumption and substance use. Overindulgence can impair your judgment and situational awareness. Beware of those around you who may be using substances, their judgment will be impaired as well.
10. Emergency Alerts: If the venue offers event-specific alerts and notifications through an app, make sure to register and stay updated with the late4st information.
11. Health and Hygiene: In today’s world, it’s essential to follow public health guidelines even if you don’t agree with them, such as mask-wearing, hand sanitization, and social distancing, to protect yourself and others.
12. Event Specifics: Understand the rules of the sport being played and the specifics of the event. This knowledge enhances your enjoyment and engagement.
13. Evacuation Plan: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and listen to event staff instructions in case of an emergency.
14. Communication: Keep your phone charged and maintain communication with friends or family members, especially if you’re attending the event as a group this will help you regroup in case of separation.
Situational awareness is your ticket to a safer, more enjoyable sporting event experience. By staying alert, prepared, and responsible, you can immerse yourself fully in the game, the fights, ect., while keeping yourself and other out of harms way. So, the next time you attend a live sporting event, remember to stay aware, stay safe, and savor every thrilling moment on and off the field or in and out of the ring. It’s not just about the game or fight; its about the experience and the memories that come with it.
Remember when seconds count and help is minutes away you are your own first responder.
Stay safe my friends.
Bart Goldbar
Goldbar Defense LLC