As we become aware of the dangers to our self and family, we should also become aware of the need to avoid those dangers whenever we can. Personal defense is a mindset.
Just recently, a shooting occurred at a "family-friendly" music concert in Colorado. As I recall, several people were shot and a police officer was killed. I don't recall if the press reported on the size of the crowd, but one can imagine the chaos and confusion that ensued. Not only could people be shot, but they could also be trampled by the mass of people trying to get away from the danger.
The simple fact is that defense-conscious people realize that some mass gatherings are just best avoided. It may be far safer just to watch them on the TV. If one believes that a public event is relatively safe, it is still an excellent idea to find seats on the edge of the crowd, nearest an exit, instead of the center-front in the first few rows. One must continually ask himself what is the worst thing that can happen and what am I going to do about it.
In the same vein, there are certain parts of every large city where it is just not wise to be in after dark or, in some cases, at all. Just because one has a concealed-carry permit does not make it smart to go blundering where one has a good reason to expect trouble. It is well to remember that a handgun is not a Magic Wand that will automatically protect you and yours from danger.
Big music concerts and athletic events are fun. But one must continually keep in mind that they can go sour in a great big hurry. Many are best avoided for that very reason. If you feel you just must attend one you should have a plan for getting out of the area quickly should trouble start. You should agree on a meeting place ahead of time, should your group get separated from each other. Everyone in the group should have a cell phone with them and exchange contact numbers. And, obviously, everyone in the group should be part of a discussion about what could go wrong and what your group is going to do about it.
Personal defense is truly a way of life. It's best not to forget that.
