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A New Lens Through Which To View Preparedness

Nordic nations prepare their citizens for war.

There have always been events on the horizon which have caused people to be concerned with their future due to ongoing tensions or turning points. Fears of nuclear war (Cuban Missile Crisis, Cold War), economic collapse (various market crashes), Y2K (existential predictions), COVID/SARS/H1N1/Swine/Monkey-pox/Ebola and now the renewed real threat of war amongst Super-Powers and their proxies around the world.

As tensions continue to escalate on various fronts (Middle East, Ukraine, China, etc.) some nations are reaching back into their Cold War preparedness archives and resurrecting their approaches to very real threats and moving towards preparing their citizens for war. Countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Finland, which have historically been wary of Russian aggression, have begun to issue their citizens updated Preparedness and Civil Defence literature.

You can read articles about how this is being rolled out across these and other Nordic nations HERE (I’ve also linked several articles). The underlying goal of these pamphlets and their supporting information campaigns by the various governments is to begin to develop a preparedness mindset in their populace while shoring up essential supplies to ensure a level of resilience across their country to lessen the impact of a possible attack. If a country (such as Russia) were to attach, say, Finland, it would almost certainly involve the compromise of key infrastructure and supply, impacting electricity, communications, fuel, food supply and transportation, all in an effort to soften resistance against an invading force. Indeed, there are sections in the pamphlets speaking to how the citizenry must resist invading adversaries and support the defence of the nation – and doing so begins with their own preparedness and self-sufficiency as supplies may be in short supply. It is now their DUTY to be prepared and self-reliant so that they may form a more resilient front against the enemy. This is a significant step-up in direction towards civil defence than has been the norm in past years of wonton sabre-rattling.

The same applies to us here in North America. More and more, I am reading reports of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure by hostile actors. Thankfully, much of the impact of these attacks has been mitigated by the fact that the damage is localized and that many of the systems have not been inter-connected. It also helps that some of the protection and recovery measures have been effective. That said, knowing that these threats exist and what their potential impacts could be should be a call to action for people everywhere to take steps, however small, to increase their level of resilience to the unforeseen which may impact their daily lives.

Hence, why we preach and teach preparedness – not just as a “thing to do”, but rather as a way of being. Being prepared, coupled with a positive and proactive mindset, makes coping with adversity far more manageable. It is this which these Nordic nations are trying to instil across their social psyches in an effort to strengthen the resolve of their citizens in the face of potential threat.

You, too, can do this. Though if you’re not wanting to prepare for war, you can prepare for the impact a winter storm, or a power outage might have on you, and possibly your business. Taking pointed steps to build resilience is an investment in yourself and need not be a futile pursuit.

Oftentimes, people don’t know where to start. We suggest you join us for a class, read our books and take steps to implement the concepts discussed. I have linked the pamphlets below. You can also pick up copies of our books HERE and sign up for an upcoming class HERE. Whatever you do, learn, anticipate, execute. No one in a crisis ever regretted preparing for it.

Stay safe & #staycrafty

Politico.EU article: https://www.politico.eu/article/sweden-issues-pamphlet-warning-citizens-what-to-do-in-case-of-war/

In case of crisis or war<https://rib.msb.se/filer/pdf/30874.pdf>

Preparing for incidents and crises – Suomi.fi<https://www.suomi.fi/guides/preparedness>

Råd om egenberedskap<https://www.sikkerhverdag.no/globalassets/din-beredskap/brosjyrer-alle-sprak/dsb-egenberedskap-engelsk-web.pdf>

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Covert Entry – Law Enforcement Restricted

The other week, True North Tradecraft, along with Eclectic Survival Systems, had the distinct honour of delivering a robust covert (non-destructive) entry class to Emergency Response Team (ERT) members of RCMP “H” Division and the Halifax Police Service.

This group of professionals spent two days with us, learning everything from next-level physical security to hands-on entry methodologies using the latest gear.

We even made a slight nuisance of ourselves when practicing (all approved, of course).

All in all, a fantastic time with much learned by all.

If your Unit or Team would like to learn these skills, contact us at info@truenorthtradecraft.ca for a quote.

Stay safe & Stay Crafty out there!

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National Women’s Show – Toronto

We are exhibiting at the National Women’s Show in Toronto Nov 8-9-10 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (South Building).

We will be at Booth # 907 (Approximately bottom-centre. See floor plan below).

We will be talking about personal safety & security, disaster preparedness and empowerment through resilience. There will be exclusive show specials, book signing, demos and releasing upcoming training opportunities.

Get your tickets HERE, stop by and say hello!

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Epoch Times Article

We were interviewed in a recent article about preparedness by The Epoch Times.

Though clearly not all of my discussions were included in the final article, I would add that the message I want to convey to everyone is one of cultivating resiliency – through building mindset, knowledge, skill, supplies and community.

Keep things reasonable, keep things focused and know that while you can’t be prepared for EVERYTHING, you CAN be largely prepared for ANYTHING. Being prepared is not some crazy thing (it’s not about preparing for a zombie apocalypse), but rather to build a level of self-reliance to weather tough times (such as bad weather or unforeseen circumstances) when regular resources are facing compromise or interruption.

Here is the link to the article directly: https://www.theepochtimes.com/world/canadas-preppers-are-ready-for-anything-in-uncertain-times-5749780 – You can also read it below.

Want to start your own preparations? Click HERE and check out or books.

Stay safe & #staycrafty!

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Counter-Custody & Knife Defense Seminar @ Full Spectrum Defense – January 20, 2024

Our first event of 2024 will see us hosted by Full Spectrum Defence in Kitchener, Ontario.

In this joint 1-day class, we will be delivering an introduction to counter-custody and restraint escape while knife defence will be delivered by other instructors.

See the link below for more information and to sign up. See you there! #staycrafty

Click HERE for more info.

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NEW – Sunday Safety & Security Skills Seminar Series (S6)

A new approach for 2024 to bring our skillsets to you in a more accessible format.

Starting in early-2024, We will begin offering 1-day Seminars, covering our legacy curriculum in a new format and making both the price point and time commitment more accessible to those with busy schedules. They will be on Sundays, during the day.

Of course, we will still plan to have our weekend-long immersive workshops, as well as Mixed-Skills classes with trusted partner instructors. We also continue to be available to be hosted to deliver these seminars to private groups.

***NOTE: We still offer RESTRICTED-LEVEL CLASSES in COVERT ENTRY and COUNTER-CUSTODY to LE/MIL/GOV organizations. Email us at info@truenorthtradecraft.ca for details.***

In the meantime, we will be offering Seminars on the following topics:

  • Situational & Behavioural Awareness – S.A.F.E. (Situational Awareness For Everyone)
  • Introduction to Personal Safety & Security
  • Disaster, Emergency Preparedness and Business Continuity
  • Lone-Worker Safety
  • Travel Security (AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
  • Women’s Safety (Women-Only) (AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST)
  • Introduction to Counter-Custody, Self-Rescue & Restraint Escape – (Part 1 of 2)
  • Counter-Custody, Self-Rescue & Restraint Escape – (Part 2 of 2)
  • Introduction to Lock Picking (Pt 1 of 2)
  • Physical Security and Non-Destructive Entry Methods (Pt 2 of 2)
  • The Back-Up-Bag Protocol
  • ***Stop The Bleed first aid classes (to be added to the above)***
  • And more to come!

These Seminars can be taken individually as a stand-alone or together in series towards building a wide-spectrum of skill sets. Depending on the subject matter, there will be differing ratios of theory and practical learning.

Soon, we will be listing the classes individually on our web store, with dates and seminar outlines, to sign up to.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

#staycrafty

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Personal Security Tradecraft & Combatives w/ Delta2Alpha

On March 30 & 31, 2019, True North Tradecraft, joined by Ace from Delta2Alpha, will be delivering a Personal Security & Combatives workshop in Toronto.

Sign up today! Space is limited!

True North Tradecraft will show some key concepts of escapology.

You will have the chance to learn, practice, and be coached through escape from some restraints commonly used in unlawful confinement; your success is guaranteed.

*pre-manufactured and improvised options will be covered*

Delta2Alpha will take you through a systematic approach to dealing with the common ranges where most fights are won or lost. Through a unique objective-focused method you will learn:

How to work in your existing skillset;

Earn your deployments;

Rapidly neutralize your immediate threat.

Come and learn how to find the calm in the storm, and what it takes to win…when the only way out…is through.

Designed as a fast paced, practical approach to get you started on your personal security plan.

EARLY BIRD PRICE:  $250 CAD per person

SUPER-DEAL:  $225 CAD per person for groups of two or more  *Contact us at info@truenorthtradecraft.ca*

Prepare yourself for the unknowns in the world with this next-generation training.

Sign up today! Price goes up soon!!!

***Note:  When you purchase this item, you will receive a joining instruction sheet for download listing the location & directions, schedule timings, contact information and a list of essential and supportive gear to bring.***

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Training Review: Counter Custody and Hostage Survival with 4TAC5 in Chicago, IL.

Training Review: IRETC with 4TAC5, Chicago, IL, May 2018

In May of this year (2018), I travelled to Chicago to expand my skills in the field of Counter-custody and counter-kidnapping but attending the IRETC Instructor Certification with Karl from 4TAC5.

For the longest time I had been working towards attending the counter-custody instructor certification course with 4TAC5 – IRETC (International Restraint Escape Training Course). I had tried for months to connect with them and was planning to travel to their training base in England to attend it when I was referred to Aaron Cunningham of the ITTA (International Tactical Training Association) as they were going to be hosing IRETC in Chicago. As luck would have it this made things much more convenient and less expensive.

Upon arrival I made contact with Aaron and he picked me up from the airport. I treated him to breakfast for the courtesy. As I had only had communications with him through e-mail to that point it was good to finally put a face to the name and get to know him. After breakfast, Aaron and I took a little tour around Chicago (he showed me some of the sights and gave me some background to the respective history and current situations with specific neighbourhoods we were traversing) and then we did two more circles to the airport to pick up other attendees and finally to pick up our instructor, Karl, and make our way to the training facility and our lodgings.

There were 4 of us with Karl and Aaron. A small but diverse group of LEO/MIL personnel.

***I will not speak to the identities of the others in the training as they are currently operational with their respective security services, nor will I get into specifics of the training due to it’s nature. ***

Over that first evening we all had a chance to get to know one another and discuss the upcoming week of training. Admittedly, I was very excited to get the training started and build upon my existing skills.

The next day training started and we covered a LOT of ground. The content for day 1 was vaguely as follows:

  • Overview of material, counter-custody principles, kidnapping & hostage survival;
  • Detailed review of improvised restraints and manufactured restraints;
  • Improvised tools against restraints;
  • Mindset and tactics

I felt as if I’d been overloaded with information and it took me a while to process what I was learning. So much amazing stuff was coming to me – efficient and effective techniques and principles to put to use immediately. My hands and wrists were smashed and raw by the end of the day but it was well worth the pain to gain the knowledge and hands-on experience in a controlled environment where mistakes can be made and learning can occur. Very helpful when you get yourself in a pickle and need someone to cut you out so you can try again.

Day 2 was much the same in so far as having a firehose of info shot my way. After a great breakfast, we got fuelled up on coffee and a recap of the previous day’s material and dove right in.

  • Recap Day 1;
  • Tools, carry, concealment and deployment;
  • Handcuffs (various, identify, function, features)
  • More mindset and tactics;
  • Special tools (contents, function, use)
  • Anatomy of abduction and custody (phases, counter-intelligence, immediate actions)
  • Captivity & custody Exercise

Day 2 was a long day filled with more work, soreness and trial and error. However, the more exhaustively we practiced, the more confident I was with the little curve balls that were thrown our way and, with patience and focus, they could be overcome.

Day 2 dinner was another great time gelling with the group and expanding on the day’s lessons.

***BTW the food in Chicago was AWESOME!***

Day 3 was the Big Cahuna. Exercise after exercise after exercise, more scenarios and practice. Very involved to test our newly acquired skills and assure we’d assimilated the little tricks and remained focused on the task regardless of the negative stimulus applied. I found this culmination was a thorough test of my skills and my ability to apply them under stress and in unknown conditions.

As a finale to the week, Aaron arranged a tour of the Chicago Police Marine Unit (with associated boat ride and waterfront tour) and topped it off with a ride-along with the Chicago Police Aviation Unit aboard a CPD helicopter above downtown Chicago. And, as it was Tuesday, what better dinner to have than tacos? I guess you really haven’t lived till you’ve watch a White Sox game at Wrigley Field from a police helicopter. Karl and I had a blast. What a great night.

The following day included a debrief, discussions, clean-up and certification presentations. My trip to the airport was bitter-sweet. I had made some new friends, learned and experienced some top-tier training and was leaving a very Toronto-like city (minus the 14 people who were shot while I was there).

I extend my sincerest thanks to Aaron Cunningham and the ITTA for hosting the training and for their wonderful hospitality. True professionals doing a great job.

To Karl of 4TAC5, thank you for your knowledge, patience and great sense of humour during the week.

To the Chicago Police Marine and Aviation units – thank you for your hospitality and for the amazing ride-alongs. Stay safe out there!

And to my fellow attendees, thank you for the laughs and lessons. Stay safe in your respective areas of operation and keep in touch.

For those of you who are in Canada looking for counter-custody and hostage survival training, keep your eyes peeled for our offerings for both civilians and military/law enforcement (restricted content) or contact us directly for private training solutions for your group.

For more information on mentioned training and entities, see below and feel free to contact us.

International Tactical Training Association

4TAC5

Oscar Delta

Hard Case Survival

Lockpicktools.com

Stay safe, stay crafty and ALWAYS HAVE AN ESCAPE PLAN.

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Upcoming Training – Don’t miss out!

Elevate your operational capabilities with True North Tradecraft, offering unique skillsets for law enforcement and security professionals in Canada.

In cooperation with The CORE Group

Covert Entry skill sets increase operational capabilities for government, law enforcement and security operators across a wide array of situations.  Expand your skills today.

We still have a couple of seats left for our May courses in downtown Toronto…

Covert Entry Concepts  is $865 ($200 deposit to hold a spot) May 12 & 13.

For a description and course details, click here.

Email truenorthtradecraft@gmail.com to reserve your spot today!

Safe Dial Mechanics is $510 ($200 deposit to hold a spot) May 14 & 15.

For a description and further details, click here.

Both courses together $1,150 for 4 days of expert instruction and tools to keep!

Reserve your spot now before they fill up!  

E-mail

truenorthtradecraft@gmail.com

today!

 

And don’t forget to register and attend the Blue Line Expo on May 3rd!

The CORE Group.