No matter how you feel about gun free zones, it is important to be aware of the rules. Some gun owners believe that if you’re carrying concealed, no one should know that you’re carrying so it shouldn’t be a big deal. However, if you get caught, you could suffer big consequences such as losing your concealed carry permit or facing jail time.
Seek Alternative Locations
If you need to go to a gun free zone while you’re carrying concealed, there are some possible solutions. Consider alternative destinations. For example, instead of visiting the post office, try out a different shipping store. UPS stores and many local shipping stores offer most of the same services that the post office does—without prohibiting guns on the premises.
Learn Other Methods of Self-Defense
Sometimes it is impossible to avoid gun free zones. Therefore, it’s a good idea to learn other self-defense techniques that don’t involve a gun, just in case. You could potentially carry other types of weapons that aren’t prohibited, just so you’ll have something with which to defend yourself in case you’re attacked. Martial arts such as karate, judo or taekwondo provide excellent skills training that you can use to defend yourself even if you aren’t carrying a firearm.
Improve Your Situational Awareness
Whether or not you’re armed, situational awareness is essential. Pay attention to your surroundings and listen to your instincts. You’re more vulnerable when you’re unarmed, so it’s important for you to be prepared for the unexpected. Observe and monitor the people, objects, exits and other environmental factors that surround you. Continue assessing the situation and your surroundings. Don’t get complacent. Situation awareness is the single-most important skill for self-defense.
Become an Activist
Criminals who are determined to kill aren’t deterred by gun free zones, and law-abiding citizens are at risk if they happen to be present in a gun free zone when a shooter arrives. Pro-gun advocates are making a difference every day. Find out if your state has a right to carry organization. These groups are involved in lobbying for pro-gun laws to protect our Second Amendment rights. College campuses have traditionally been gun-free zones, but some lawmakers are working to change that. Activism in this realm can make your beliefs known.
