Security Guard D License Class in Tampa September 26-29

ESS will conduct a D.O.E. approved Security Guard D License Class in Tampa September 26-29 at the ESS Global corporate headquarters in Tarpon Springs.

Security Guard D License Class in Tampa September 26-29

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Security Guard D License Class in Tampa July 11-14 at ESSAre looking for the very best security guard D license class in Tampa and the Clearwater area? ESS Global Corp is the only security training facility in Florida to be licensed and approved by the Department of Education. The ESS Global Florida D License Training in Tampa is now only $125.

That’s 4 days of training for a quick start in the fast growing security industry.

  • Despite growing concerns recently after the US May jobs report over a potential economic slowdown, the outlook for the Security Services industry continues to show substantial growth. As security concerns continue to escalate, government and private entities are expected to increase spending to improve all aspects of their security programs.
  • The U.S. Bureau of Labor anticipates “excellent” overall job opportunities for security guards through 2024, with employment growing at about 5.4% during the period. The bureau expects the number of people employed as security guards in the U.S. to reach 1.15 million by 2024.
  • A report from the Freedonia Group report also notes that security guard services will attract the largest share of overall U.S. security spending through 2019, highlighting the continued importance of having skilled, qualified personnel.

2000px-US-DeptOfEducation-SealAs the leading provider of Security Training in Florida, ESS Global Corp is the the only Security School in the State of Florida whose courses are monitored and approved by the D.O.E. The only one. Additionally, our instructors bring “real world” information to you in an engaging, informative manner.

Security Guard D License Class in Tampa September 26-29

The attainment of a Class “D” statewide license issued by Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is the first step in becoming a security officer.  Once you have completed the state-mandated 40-hours of classroom training and taken and passed the exam the State of Florida will issue you a temporary license.  The temporary license will allow you to begin working immediately while waiting for your hard copy from the State.  The Class “D” license is for unarmed positions.   For an armed position, you must complete the requisite requirements to obtain a Class “G” license that entails 28 hours of state-mandated classes plus a 48-round firearms qualification course.
Note:  Anyone may take the class to obtain the Class “D” license.  However, F.S. 493.6109 outlines the guidelines that must be met in order to be eligible to obtain a “D” license.
The requirements are as follows:

  • Security Guard D License Class in Tampa July 11-14Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be of good moral character.
  • Be a citizen or legal resident alien of the United States.
  • May not have been adjudicated incapacitated under s. 744.331 or a similar statute in another state.
  • May not have been involuntarily placed in a treatment facility for the mentally ill, unless judicially restored.
  • May not have been diagnosed with an incapacitating mental illness, unless cleared by a psychiatrist.
  • May not be a chronic or habitual user of alcoholic beverages to the extent the individual’s normal faculties are impaired.
  • May not have been committed for controlled substance abuse.

Security Guard D License Class in Tampa July 11-14 at ESSSIGN UP TODAY for the Security Guard D License Class in Tampa September 26-29

Space is limited. Call Today!

 

Florida D License Training in Tampa May 16-19

ESS Global Corporation, a world leader in protection and security, announces a DOE approved Florida D License Training in Tampa on May 16-19 for $125. Call today!

Florida D License Training in Tampa May 16-19

Looking for the very best Florida D License training in Tampa and the Clearwater area? ESS Global Corp is the only training facility in Florida to be licensed and approved by the Department of Education. Our Florida D License Training in Tampa is now only $125.
That’s 4 days of training for a quick start in the fast growing security industry.

As the leading provider of Security Training in Florida, ESS Global Corp is the the only Security School in the State of Florida whose courses are monitored and approved by the D.O.E. The only one. Additionally, our instructors bring “real world” information to you in an engaging, informative manner.

Florida D License Training in Tampa Bay at ESS Global Corp

The attainment of a Class “D” statewide license issued by Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is the first step in becoming a security officer.  Once you have completed the state-mandated 40-hours of classroom training and taken and passed the exam the State of Florida will issue you a temporary license.  The temporary license will allow you to begin working immediately while waiting for your hard copy from the State.  The Class “D” license is for unarmed positions.   For an armed position, you must complete the requisite requirements to obtain a Class “G” license that entails 28 hours of state-mandated classes plus a 48-round firearms qualification course.
Note:  Anyone may take the class to obtain the Class “D” license.  However, F.S. 493.6109 outlines the guidelines that must be met in order to be eligible to obtain a “D” license.
The requirements are as follows:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be of good moral character.
  • Be a citizen or legal resident alien of the United States.
  • May not have been adjudicated incapacitated under s. 744.331 or a similar statute in another state.
  • May not have been involuntarily placed in a treatment facility for the mentally ill, unless judicially restored.
  • May not have been diagnosed with an incapacitating mental illness, unless cleared by a psychiatrist.
  • May not be a chronic or habitual user of alcoholic beverages to the extent the individual’s normal faculties are impaired.
  • May not have been committed for controlled substance abuse.

Florida D License Training in Tampa May 16-19

Sign up today

or call ESS

727-940-7926

Florida G License Training in Clearwater

ESS Global Corp, a recognized leader in protection and security, offers Florida G license training in Clearwater Florida.

Florida G License Training in Clearwater

handcuff training at ESS GlobalAs stated in the Florida Private Investigator Handbook, an applicant for a Florida Class “G” Statewide Firearm license must have a minimum of twenty-eight (28) hours of range and classroom training within the past (12) months.  This training must be taught and administered by a Class “K” Firearms Instructor.
ESS Global Corp is the only Protection School in the state of Florida that is licensed and approved by the US Department of Education. Additionally, our D.O.E status is a well-known fact in the security business. So the best candidates know where to go to get world class training. Plus, we get to see those security agents every day during training, offering choice positions to the best of the best in each and every class, providing a consistent level of quality, awareness and skills that other security companies never attain because they never know the security guard’s skill set until they are out in the field.
The Class G Statewide Firearms License, issued by Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under the direction of Adam Putnum (pictured – center), is the license that permits any individual who possesses a valid Class “D” Security Officer license to perform the duties of an armed security officer while on an armed post or on an armed assignment. Further, the Class “G” license permits holders of valid Class “C”, “CC”, “M”, “MA”, and “MB” licenses to perform duties while armed.

Florida D Security Guard Training in Clearwater

Our unarmed D Florida security guard training classes are now in session here in Clearwater, where you will find our world class D.O.E licensed and approved training. During class, you’ll learn about such subjects as confrontation management and the Florida legal codes.  This is your opportunity to learn from the best as many emplo

venue security in florida

yers know that ESS Global Corp operates the only Protection / Security School in Florida that is D.O.E approved.

So where do you find the only D.O.E Approved Florida D and G license training in Clearwater?

If you are serious about a career, choose a school that is serious. ESS Global Corp.

727-940-7926

Executive Protection Certifications

While there are no authentic Executive Protection certifications, there are valid Secondary Executive Protection Certifications that you’ll need to have.

Executive Protection Certifications

If you are considering a career in the rapidly growing executive protection field, know that in the protection/security industry, there is no “license”, there is no state testing, and their are no state boards in most states. Consequently, in nearly every state, there are no Executive Protection Certifications. Executive Protection Training is usually lumped into the same category as Security Guards or Private Investigation and has very little to do with either.
Yet online, we see training to earn your “certified protection specialist credentials” advertised on various websites. Unfortunately, nobody is regulating these schools, training centers and trainers. So know this; No government agency regulates or monitors what is taught and who is teaching it. Thus, anybody off the street could be teaching you, and you could be paying for false, misleading, inaccurate information.
The “protection credentials” you are handed at the end of the training, is simply a piece of paper from the trainer and nothing more.

How ESS Global is Different

executive protection or bodyguard? - executive protection!
This is exactly where the ESS Global Executive Protection Training School differs. We are licensed and our curriculum and instructors are all regulated and monitored by the Department of Education (D.O.E.), and only a select few elite schools are D.O.E. approved and certified for executive protection training. 

But there are important Secondary Executive Protection Certifications that can further your career in the security/protection field.

Secondary Executive Protection Certifications

The ASP Basic Certification (ABC) is a 7-hour, hands-on seminar which trains participants in the operational use of the ASP Tactical Baton. The program is simple to learn and easy to understand. It provides effective defensive impact weapon tactics for law enforcement and private security personnel, as well as responsible civilians without long hours of training. The techniques were designed to work effectively for all users, male and female, large and small, fit as well as those in less-than-peak physical condition.
The program provides portation (carrying) and presentation (drawing) procedures as well as striking techniques. These tactics are quickly learned, easily practiced and readily maintained long after the program is completed.

handcuff training at ESS GlobalThe ASP Basic Handcuff Certification (ABC) is a 4-hour, hands-on seminar which trains participants in the operational use of the hinged and chain handcuffs, as well as the proprietary ASP flex-cuffs. The program is simple to learn and easy to understand. It provides effective mechanical restraint tactics for law enforcement and private security personnel without long hours of training. The techniques were designed to work effectively for all users, male and female, large and small, fit as well as those in less-than-peak physical condition.
The program provides portation (carrying) and presentation (drawing) procedures as well as application techniques. These tactics are quickly learned, easily practiced and readily maintained long after the program is completed.


This four (4) hour end-user level certification program focuses on the deployment, handling and documentation of the use of OC (oleoresin capsicum) chemical aerosols.
This course will train the police officer or private security officer in the use of aerosols tactics and will help protect both the officer as well as their agency from costly litigation issues that could arise from the use of OC aerosol projectors.
This program addresses proper deployment techniques, situational requirements and situational appropriateness of various projectors, defensive and retention contamination drills, decontamination, proper use-of-force reporting and operational guidelines.
Pepper spray can save your life — but it can also make a dangerous encounter worse.
PREREQUISITES: This class is restricted to sworn public law enforcement officers and licensed private security officers only.

There is a saying we love around the office here;

Concealed Carry Class in OrlandoBrandishing a firearm is not the solution to every confrontation, but rather taking action first will always beat reacting last.

That being said, there are times you may need to carry. So you will need a Concealed Carry Permit. In most every state including here in Florida where our corporate office is, you’ll need to take a concealed weapons class in order to successfully apply for your permit to carry a weapon.

venue security in floridaThese Executive Protection Certifications training classes are an absolute must for those that are serious about success in the Executive Protection/Bodyguard/Security Guard Industry.

Please ask us about our group rates, private classes, referrals and discounts for: military, law enforcement, firemen, EMT/paramedics and security officers with either D or G license.

SIGN UP TODAY! or call 727-940-7926

 

Orlando D Florida Security Guard Training

Good News, Orlando. Florida’s only US D.O.E. licensed and approved protection training is now in Orlando. ESS Global Orlando D Florida security guard training classes start soon, so call today.
The security industry is growing exponentially, both nationally and here in Florida, and it’s time you got in on the action. Whether you’re looking to start an exciting new career as an armed/unarmed guard or you’re just furthering your education in the protection and security field, ESS Global Corp has the classes you need to obtain the licenses and training that Florida requires.

Orlando D Florida Security Guard Training

Our unarmed Orlando D Florida security guard training classes are now in session. You no longer need to drive to Tampa for world class D.O.E licensed and approved training. During class, you’ll learn about such subjects as confrontation management and the Florida legal codes.  This is your opportunity to learn from the best as many employers know that ESS Global Corp operates the only Protection School in Florida that is D.O.E approved.
Orlando D Florida security guard training
The attainment of a Class “D” statewide license issued by Florida’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is the first step in becoming a security officer.  Once you have completed the state-mandated 40-hours of classroom training and taken and passed the exam the State of Florida will issue you a temporary license.  The temporary license will allow you to begin working immediately while waiting for your hard copy from the State.  The Class “D” license is for unarmed positions.  For armed positions, you must complete the requisite requirements to obtain a Class “G” license that entails 28 hours of state-mandated classes plus a 48-round firearms qualification course.
Note:  Anyone may take the class to obtain the Class “D” license.  However, F.S. 493.6109 outlines the guidelines that must be met in order to be eligible to obtain a “D” license.
The requirements (as posted on  http://www.freshfromflorida.com/) are as follows:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be of good moral character
  • Be a citizen or legal resident alien of the United States.
  • May not have been adjudicated incapacitated under s. 744.331 or a similar statute in another state.
  • May not have been involuntarily placed in a treatment facility for the mentally ill, unless judicially
  • May not have been diagnosed with an incapacitating mental illness, unless cleared by a psychiatrist.
  • May not be a chronic or habitual user of alcoholic beverages to the extent the individual’s normal faculties are impaired.
  • May not have been committed for controlled substance abuse.

The 40-hour course is separated into a 24-hour course and a 16-hour course.  Both courses must be completed before a temporary license will be issued.
The 24-hour course includes in-depth curriculum modules on: 

  • Orlando D Florida security guard training - 2S. 493 and 5N-1 FAC
  • Legal issues
  • Basic first aid
  • Emergency procedures
  • Ethics and professional conduct
  • Access control
  • Patrol techniques
  • Observation techniques and report writing
  • Interviewing techniques
  • Fire detection, suppression and life safety
  • Crime and accident prevention
  • Crime and accident scene protection
  • Terrorism awareness
  • Exam

The 16-hour course includes in-depth curriculum modules on:

  • Orlando D Florida security guard training - 3Public relations
  • Courtroom procedures
  • Fundamentals of personal security
  • Interpersonal communications
  • Professional communications
  • Traffic direction
  • Crowd control
  • Special problems for security
  • Terrorism awareness
  • Exam

ESS A licensed DI or DS Instructor teaches all “D” license classes.
Classes offered in the following formats:
4 day – 4 consecutive 10 hr. days (8:00am – 6:30pm)
2 by 2 – 2 days one week and 2 days another week, usually over a weekend
 
Orlando D Florida Security Guard Training Class Tuition: $125 (military and previous student discounts available)

SIGN UP TODAY! 

or call 

727-940-7926

Florida G License vs a CWP

At ESS Global, we often get questions on “G” and “CWP” rules, laws and reciprocity, so we thought it was time for a Florida G license vs a CWP “FAQ”, to set the record straight. There is plenty of misinformation, so we consulted with one of our top trainers, Mr. John Goldsboro at S1 Firearms Training. John is an NRA certified firearms instructor and a K licensed firearms instructor for the state of Florida. He is also a firearms and defensive tactics instructor for ESS Global Corp.

Florida G License vs a CWP FAQ

Question: I have a Florida statewide “G” license. Can I carry when driving back and forth from work?
Answer: Yes, you can carry/wear your firearm while traveling directly to/from home/armed post.
Question: If have a Florida “G” license, can I work in other states?
Answer: A Florida “G” license is only valid in the state of Florida. If you want to work armed in that state some require you to have their states armed license and a CWP might not be sufficient. Our advice? Call a law enforcement agency in that state to find out precisely what you need to do to follow the laws in that particular state.
Question: I may be working in the Close Protection industry. Do I get a “G” license because it’s for work? Or do I apply for a personal CWP?
Answer: To work any armed security position in the state of Florida you must have both a Class “D” (Unarmed Security License) and a Class “G” License (Armed Security License). If you plan to carry and you expect to work Close Protection assignments outside of Florida, You’ll want a CWP (as long as it’s in the 35 states that honor a Florida CWP). It’s always best to check the state you are traveling to.
Question: When I get a Florida Concealed Carry Permit, what other states is it valid in and what do I do when traveling through a state which doesn’t recognize my Florida CWP?
Answer: A Florida Concealed weapons permit is valid in the following 35 states: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico,  North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah,  Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wyoming.
When traveling through the 15 states (and DC) that do not have a reciprocity agreement, ESS Global encourages licensees planning to travel to another state to consult that state’s laws or call a law enforcement agency in that state to find out precisely what carry restrictions apply.
Question: I have a Florida Concealed Weapon/Firearm Permit, but I am not a legal resident of Florida. Can I travel to the states that recognize Florida licenses and still carry a concealed weapon?
Answer: Nope, Florida does not recognize an out-of-state permit that was issued to a non-resident of the licensing state, and other states do not recognize a nonresident Florida carry permit.
Question: I am considering carrying and I recently got an email saying I would need a “Florida Carry Badge”. Is that the same as a permit?
Answer: To carry concealed in the state of Florida you must take a CWP course by a NRA or State Certified instructor or school. After completing the course and successfully submitting your application, you will receive a Florida State CWP Permit Licensed I.D. To legally carry in the state of Florida and its states of reciprocity all you need is your state issued I.D.  CWP Badges are not a requirement and that purchase us up to each licensee. These badges are simply a novelty item. Feel free to ignore their implications that these are “required to remain in compliance” and other sales pitches.
ESS Global Corp - Florida G license vs a CWPWhether you need training for a “D” Security license, a “G” license, or the required training to apply for a concealed weapon permit (CWP), remember that ESS Global Corp is the only protection school in the state of Florida that is licensed by the US Department of Education.

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com

Florida Executive Protection and Bodyguard Training

Florida Commissioner Adam Putman With ESS Global Corp
Florida Commissioner Adam Putman With ESS Global Corp

ESS Global Corp offers Florida Executive Protection and Bodyguard Training, and is the only Executive Protection School in Florida licensed through the Florida Department of Education. ESS Global is also in the process of becoming Post 9/11 GI Bill approved by the Department of Veteran Affairs. We also offer no interest payment plans for Veterans.  (UPDATE 12-23-16 ESS Global Executive Protection Training is now approved by the VA to accept Post 9-11 GI Bill Benefits)
But ESS also knows that a piece of paper from the state or the VA isn’t what sets us apart. It’s all about the training. ESS Global training is taught by industry professionals who have unmatched experience and knowledge in the Executive Protection field.  At ESS Global, our primary goal is to pass down our real world knowledge from our own field experiences to our students, in an effort to best prepare them to work as a professional in the Executive Protection and Bodyguard Industry.
ESS Global Corp also offers Advanced Executive Training, as well as Threat Assessment Training, Motorcade Operation, “D” and “G” Florida Certification Training, Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP) Training, Advanced Defensive Training, Tactical, Gun Safety Training, First Aid, CPR Training and more.
The Close Protection industry is growing fast, simply because executives and their families, celebrities, politicians, sport stars and more all look for professional protection. Close Protection is the pinnacle of the private security industry. This is your opportunity to be trained by the some of the best professionals in the industry for a career second to none in the security field.
Classes are held at various times throughout the US in Tampa, Orlando, Dallas, Chicago, Detroit, Las Vegas & Los Angeles.
Ask about group rates, discounts, referrals and private classes.  ESS Global Corp can also take the course to you, and also offers private “on-site” courses for groups, organizations and businesses.
Class sizes will be limited to ensure that each student receives the proper amount of “hands-on” instruction so that when they complete the course their knowledge not only meets. but exceeds industry standards.
If you have a desire to be the best, then pick up the phone and train with the best.
Call the leader in Florida Executive Protection and Bodyguard Training.

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com

 

Florida Security Guard Training – US D.O.E. Licensed Training

Looking for the very best Florida security guard training? ESS Global Corp is the only training facility in Florida to be licensed by the US Department of Education. If you’re serious about a career in security and protection industry, choose a school that is serious as well.

Florida Security Guard Training – US D.O.E. Licensed Training

ESS Global instructors are Department of Education licensed with an unrelenting attention to detail and real world experience unparalleled in the industry. Our school is currently the only state licensed Executive Protection School through the Florida Department of Education and is also in the process of becoming Post 9/11 GI Bill approved by the Department of Veteran Affairs.

Florida Security Guard Training Courses

  • Executive Protection – Top Rated Certification Course
    ESS Graduates
    ESS Graduates
  • Executive Protection- Advanced
  • Threat Assessment and Security Advance Tactics
  • Motorcade Operations
  • “D” Unarmed Security License
  • “G” Armed Security License
  • Defense Tactics and Hand-to-Hand
  • Concealed Weapons Permit (CWP)
  • ASP Tactical Baton, OC Spray & Handcuffing
  • Gun Safety / Shooting Fundamentals Course
  • Church Security
  • First Aid & CPR/AED

Perhaps you’ve seen the statistics. Maybe you’ve seen the US Bureau of Labor Statistics calling the security profession job prospects thought 2022 as “Excellent”. And that’s just for standard security guards at banks, businesses, malls, even churches. Even better, the Personal Close Protection/Bodyguard and Executive Protection market is exploding.
Are you ready to take control of your life? The ESS Global Corp “All-in-One” Mega-Course is a 300 hour fast track program that takes you to elite status in the protection industry in record time.

300 Hours. 14 Certifications.

  • Executive Protection Certification
  • Advanced Executive Protection Certification
  • Threat Assessment & Security Advance Tactics Certification
  • Motorcade Tactics Certification
  • Defensive Tactics Certification
  • First Aid/CPR/AED Certification
  • Florida Concealed Weapons Certification (May be used to obtain license)
  • NRA Basic Pistols Course Certification
  • Collapsible Baton Certification
  • OC Spray Certification
  • Handcuffing Certification
  • Protocol Certification (Business Etiquette)
  • D Unarmed Certification
  • G Armed Certification

The ESS Global Corporation Complete “All in One” Course Details
There is no better time to start that right now. Have questions? Give us a call.

727-940-7926

Security Guard Liability – The Best Protection is Knowledge

ESS Global Corp provides Florida State required “G” armed security guard training, and is the only state licensed protection and security school in Florida. Let’s take a quick look at security guard liability.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, under the direction of Adam Putman (pictured) per the Division of Licensing, licenses and regulates the private security industry in accordance with Chapter 493, of the Florida Statutes. Armed and unarmed security officers and security agencies serve both businesses and the public sector. Untrained and unlicensed persons or businesses, or persons not of strong moral character can be a threat to public safety. The private security industry is state regulated to ensure the interests of the public are adequately and properly served and protected.

Armed Security Guard Training

Florida Commissioner Adam Putman With ESS Global
Florida Commissioner Adam Putman With ESS Global Corp

To begin the licensing process for the Armed Security Guard Certification, you must first successfully completed the unarmed “D” course. Then you must take the state mandated 28 hours of armed security training in the classroom and at the gun range. The Florida armed security guard certification training is obtained by completing 20 hours of classroom instruction and 8 hours of firearm instruction on the range. The firearm portion of the class is meant to provide basic firearm usage and safety and to meet the armed security training requirements of the state-regulated shooting sequences to show proficiency and safety with a firearm.
Don’t forget that the State of Florida requires that all Florida License “G” Armed Security Officers must re-qualify at least once per year with the type of handgun that they carry on duty.

Security Guard Liability Issues

While not all security situations require armed officers, they are a useful addition in many cases. If there is a need for armed professionals, there must be much more training and evaluation of the individual before they ever carry a weapon. It’s important to remember there is liability of having an armed guard, but in many instances there is also liability by not having an armed professional.
Also, like everything else, the statutes change frequently, sometimes they are big changes (see the new firearms allowed HERE), and sometimes little changes (uniform requirements). You can read the current Florida statutes HERE. This is important. As a rule, the bigger security agencies generally know the changes before the smaller companies. These statues also matter in cases such as vicarious litigation. Security guards, bouncers, and venue protection are, in most cases, considered employees of the venues and businesses they are charged with protecting when it comes to security guard liability issues.
So yes, it’s kind of important that you talk about these issues with your current security company. If you’re not comfortable with the answers you get, give ESS a call.
In addition to providing professional security guards around the country, ESS Global Corp offers Executive Protection/Bodyguard Training Classes and Security Training/Licensing courses. We are the ONLY state licensed Executive Protection School in Florida and among only a handful in the entire country.
And who trains our guards? We do!
Minimize your risks and exposure to liability. Hire a company that know the rules and plays by the rules. Because if you are hiring security guards, as a business, you need to know the best liability protection is knowledge.
As the only training facility in Florida to be licensed by the US Department of Education, ESS Global Corporation provides education, training and consulting for commercial endeavors, government entities and the general public solely designed to enhance the safety and security of our communities.

Have security questions? Give ESS Global Corp a call today.

727-940-7926

info@essglobalcorp.com

Back to Basics! Really?

back to basics
So here we are again. Just when you think it wont happen to you, or you say to yourself, “I don’t know anyone that has had an accident. We all hear the stories and see all the pictures on the web, we even watch the videos of DEA agents actually teaching others on gun safety and yes you guessed it, BAM! A Negligent Discharge. I am in the camp, that does not believe you should call it an “accidental discharge” Really? Can accidents happen yes.! Like maybe if you drop a firearm and it goes off, or you are running from a bear and shooting at it blindly, and you accidentally kill a mocking bird. But when you reach for a firearm to handle it and you grab it incorrectly or haphazardly, that results in the discharge of the firearm that is NEGLIGENCE! You caused it! You failed to take the appropriate measures to ensure the safe handling of the firearm. Why am I writing this article, because a buddy of mine decided to discharge his pistol while in his vehicle where he, YES! You guessed it, he shot himself in the foot and through the floorboard of his car. In his words “I had an awkward grip on the gun and my ring finger slipped into the trigger guard and it went off.” I wanted to post his picture, but he threatened me with litigation if I did, so I just told him he would be the subject of our next post. So lets go through the basics once again.

  • 1) Treat all guns as if they are loaded!

This rule by itself does not completely keep you safe of negligence but it does set the tone as to how we treat a firearm and do not just assume the gun is unloaded. It must be treated with respect! Even when someone tells you it’s “Not loaded” Clear the firearm yourself!

  • 2) Do not point the gun at anything you do not wish to destroy!

At this point you have not verified weather or not the gun is loaded or not, so we will consider it loaded and keep it pointed either down at the ground or in the ready position. Not to the side, not in the air, keep it pointed DOWN!

  • 3) Keep you finger off the trigger and outside the trigger guard until ready to shoot!

And here we are the number one rule that if followed no matter what else you do, the gun will not discharge. Hmmm, so basically the firearm is safe, until someone picks it up, and how that person handles it determines weather or not it stays safe.

  • 4) Know your target and what is beyond it!

So you have followed all the rules and now you are placed in the position to discharge your gun, either at the range or in a life or death situation, you must know what you target is and what is beyond it. What kind of backstop are you shooting at? Are there people behind your attacker? Always remember there is a lawyer behind every round that gets fired from your gun. And they want to know why it was fired and why it landed where it did. And you need to be able to articulate your thought processes as to why you discharged your gun, and why the bullets landed where they did.