According to the FBI’s 2023 Crime in the U.S. report, violent crime remains significantly higher than pre-2020 levels, particularly in urban areas. Carjackings, armed robberies, and home invasions are among the most common violent offenses — all fast, unpredictable, and personal. From 2022 to 2024, several major cities reported double-digit increases in assaults and homicides involving armed offenders.

🔎 Reality check: Police response times average 7–12 minutes nationwide, but most violent encounters are over in less than 60 seconds. According to multiple studies, the average self-defense shooting occurs at a distance of 3–7 feet, lasts just a few seconds, and involves only 2–3 shots fired. In many cases, there's no time to call for help — action must be immediate and decisive.

That’s why responsible training, situational awareness, and a defensive mindset are critical, because when seconds count, you are your first responder.