Terror training a new boon for area security companies
People and businesses across the country are getting training for how to deal with mass shootings or terrorist attacks — a new reality widely encouraged by elected leaders.
In fact, Republican presidential hopeful Ben Carson suggested Americans should train for terrorist attacks just as school children once conducted air raid drills during the Cold War.
And in Southwest Florida, they’re taking the idea seriously.
It was the atomic bomb that scared the cold war generation. Fast forward to 2015 and the fear is a bit different.
Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey said on his website that the only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.
It’s made an impact on Shanna Thompson of Naples, who’s now taking a class to protect herself.
“I just kind of lived in my little bubble, and I think it’s time to realize what is going on the world,” she said. “I don’t know anything about guns. I’ve never held one in my life. I just want to be safe and keep my little one safe.”
Mitch Green is also taking the class. He said the situation has become more serious and that recent shootings have inspired him to act.
“It’s training that they can use to help themselves if they’re involved in or around some sort of mass shooting or terrorist incident,” said Mike Perl of Naples Security Solutions, which has added employees to accommodate the demand for training.
Companies, too, are looking for training. And some are considering arming their employees.
“I certainly think that corporations or companies should closely evaluate their current policies and really think hard before they designate their businesses a gun-free zone,” said Chris Knott of Naples Security Solutions.
