In early August, I received an unexpected email from Phillip Toppino, director and founder of Where Our Families Train (WOFT) in Orlando, Florida. XINSURANCE was hosting an event, and a course spot was available to me for two days of family safety learning. I’ll admit, I had to think it over for a little bit; my son’s wedding was the following weekend, but when would I have the chance for this top-notch training again? I was in!
Prior to the trip, I spent some time researching XINSURANCE, which recently partnered with WOFT. Admittedly I was overwhelmed while perusing the website. The list of products available was extensive. Here is just a very short list of some of the coverage that may interest people I know:
In a nutshell, XINSURANCE offers customized liability insurance coverage for homeowners, employers and businesses.
The two-day scenario based training began in the lowlight building (where we would start) with an overview by Philip and introductions from the entire staff and attendees (some family groups were training in other areas of the property). Philip stressed this training is a marathon, not a sprint. He also wanted the XINSURANCE team of six ladies to know some of the goals.
I followed the XINSURANCE group around the first day for lowlight training and anti-carjacking. This training was eye opening for all of us. As an observer, I watched how the bad guy made his move and how the victim responded. I learned “what to do” and “what not to do.” This is one of the features of training at WOFT that I find particularly valuable. Although it may be nerve-wracking to know others are watching you, observing various individuals in similar situations numerous times helps train the brain.
We learned tips for safely getting to a parked car during the lowlight course. Before starting scenarios, Philip demonstrated how to use a flashlight (designed by WOFT) to deter and stop a possible assailant. He showed examples of pre-fight indicators and explained the OODA LOOP a four-stage decision-making process. He also stressed that the main goal is to avoid a confrontation altogether. Then, we rolled into scenarios – one person at a time.
Each student entered a large, dimly lit room with the intention of getting into her car safely. She had no idea what to expect as role players moved about in full protective gear. It was up to her to be situationally aware and pay attention to pre-fight indicators.
The XINSURANCE group spent time in the anti-carjacking class in the afternoon. As with the morning class, the instructors offered techniques for avoiding confrontation and tips on what to do when the it becomes dangerous. Each scenario began with the student or students in a parked vehicle. As role players (in full protective gear) appeared from different locations, it was up to each student to determine how to respond and react to any situation that occurred.
What I really like about the training at WOFT is how the lead instructors tailored each of the three scenario versions to the levels of the students, trying to force them to work on a skill they were lacking. If someone wasn’t ready to progress, the instructor changed the scenario, while trying to emphasize the same skill. For instance, some students had a difficult time raising their voices, while others were working hands-on with weapons.
The quick debrief that followed each scenario (again, great information for the student and the observer) completed the learning loop. As you can imagine, the scenarios are meant to induce stress, which gets people really amped up, and then there is an adrenaline dump. When each scenario ended, we saw clapping, high-fives, smiles and reassurance of a job well done. For those visibly upset, role players all removed their masks and dropped to a knee. They then discussed both the positives and negatives and gave advice for the following scenario.
The skills, tips and techniques I learned during the training at WOFT are something I can implement every day. As Philip said numerous times, “Training for safety is a marathon, not a sprint.” You have to keep reviewing your skills and revisiting scenarios so that as something happens, you will know how to respond because … you’ve already seen it before.
To learn about the types of custom training offered by WOFT, visit its website.
You’ll also want to explore the XINSURANCE website to learn all the coverage offered.
Michelle Cerino, aka Princess Gunslinger, first entered the firearms industry in 2011 as co-owner, president and trainer at a national training company. She immediately began competing in both 3-Gun and NRA Action Pistol, becoming a sponsored shooter. Michelle is currently a columnist and Managing Editor of Women’s Outdoor News, as well as owner of Pervenio LLC. She also manages social media for Vera Koo and FASTER Saves Lives. Michelle encourages others to step out of the comforts of home and explore. View all posts by Michelle Cerino
