After the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, California, many people are understandably concerned about “active shooter” situations. Rather than succumb to fear, we would encourage everyone to overcome it through some form of preparedness and training. If you've run through a disaster scenario 10 or 20 times, you'll be substantially more calm and collected if the scenario someday becomes a reality. Your training will kick in, you'll remember what to do, and you'll act more confidently.

Self-defense courses are an excellent way to build this confidence, and prepare for dealing with active shooters or armed attackers of any kind. Endeavor Defense and Fitness, located outside Columbus, Ohio, has decided to take it one step further, and offer free classes on Active Shooter Response Training. Endeavor co-owner Aaron Jannetti is working hard to make these classes accessible to the general public, stating that you don't need to be big, strong, or a black belt to fight back against an armed attacker.

This video from TheBlaze shows Endeavor Defense's philosophy:

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Aaron's four steps—evade, arm, barricade, and fight—are straightforward and effective. Physical confrontation should always be a last resort, but in a situation where a single shooter is outnumbered by hundreds of potential victims, the odds are physically stacked against the shooter. According to Aaron, all that's needed is a “spark” in the form of someone with the right mindset to turn the tide and fight back.

Do you agree with Endeavor's philosophy on active shooter defense? If you were unarmed, how would you deal with an active shooter scenario? Let us know in the comments.

Written by Patrick McCarthy