Brace For Impact: Re-Thinking Safety in Today's America - Paperback

by Michael Marks (Author)

We live in a world that is increasingly uncivil and unstable. Acts of violence take place in our homes, schools, theaters, churches and shopping malls -- places the news now refers to as "soft targets." From the so-called "knockout game" to road rage and widespread civil unrest, violence has become a persistent part of life in our world today. When we need protection more than ever, budget shortfalls leave police and 911 systems short-staffed... or completely dysfunctional. Our public debate on the subject has become mired in a tar pit of political rhetoric and divisiveness. Despite our proximity in great numbers, many citizens feel isolated and alone, wondering what to do if trouble knocks on their door. BRACE FOR IMPACT is a clear, layman-level look at these critical issues. Author Michael Marks has served in law enforcement as well as in Afghanistan; his book distills a lifetime of awareness and avoidance training into bite-sized chunks that are easy for anyone to grasp and apply. This book is a must-read for anybody who is interested in a better understanding of the risks, and low-to-no-cost strategies that will make life safer for you and your family.

Author Biography

Michael Marks is an internationally recognized expert in emergency response, crisis management and threat assessment, with experience that reaches from Afghanistan, Africa and Central America to the rescue of personnel in the heart of the city-wide terrorist attacks on Mumbai. He is a best-selling author of programs adopted by federal agencies and special operations services to include the FBI National Academy, the US Army Asymmetric Warfare Group as well as US and foreign military services. Following the success of The Emergency Responder's Guide to Terrorism, Mr. Marks has written Brace For Impact: Re-Thinking Safety in Today's America as a plain-english primer for the average citizen concerned about the growing trend of violence, and the seemingly inescapable conclusion that the government is incapable of providing adequate protection. National Public Radio (NPR) reported the following on the subject: With officers laid off and furloughed, [Milwaukee County Sheriff David] Clarke says, calling 911 and waiting for police is no longer your best bet. "You could beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed, or you could fight back. But are you prepared?" he asks. "Consider taking a certified safety course in handling a firearm so you can defend yourself until we get there. You have a duty to protect yourself and your family." Brace For Impact offers those unfamiliar with the extent of violent crime, or the limits of system to protect us, a very no-holds-barred look at the challenges, while offering simple, low-to-no cost steps that any individual, family, business or group can take to greatly improve their safety and peace of mind. With an emphasis on awareness and avoidance strategies, Brace For Impact is focused less on fighting your way out of a bad situation than it is on avoiding the fight altogether.