How Technology Can Enhance Situational Awareness

In a world that’s faster, louder, and more chaotic than ever, maintaining situational awareness isn’t just a good habit—it’s a survival skill. And while we train the body and sharpen the mind at Sentinel Combatives, we also recognize a powerful truth:

Technology—when used intentionally—can dramatically improve your awareness, preparation, and response.

From smart apps and digital maps to wearable tools and passive monitoring systems, there are more ways than ever to keep your family informed and one step ahead.

Let’s look at how to leverage today’s tech without becoming dependent on it.

First: What Is Situational Awareness?

At its core, situational awareness is your ability to:

• Observe your environment
• Understand what’s happening
• Predict what could happen next
• Make fast, informed decisions

It’s the opposite of being caught off guard. It’s proactive. And while most people only think of “gut instinct,” your tech can give your instincts a massive boost—if you know how to use it.

Real-Time Intelligence Apps

These platforms help you monitor local threats, track incidents, and stay informed in fast-moving situations.

Top Tools:

• Facebook- Local pages to see what others are seeing around you. 
• Nextdoor – Local discussions on break-ins, suspicious activity, and community issues
• 5-0 Radio or Scanner Radio – Police scanner apps for live response audio

Pro Tip: Create a folder on your phone called “SA Tools” and keep all of these apps together for quick access.

 Digital Mapping & Route Planning

Situational awareness isn’t just about what’s happening—it’s about where it’s happening, and how you move around it.

Key Features to Use:

• Google Maps – Use the “traffic” and “satellite” layers to spot congestion or trouble spots
• Waze – Real-time crowd-sourced alerts for accidents, hazards, and police presence
• Offline Maps (Gaia GPS, Maps.me) – Critical during blackouts or travel in low-signal areas
• CalTopo or OnX Maps – Ideal for rural families or anyone prepping bug-out routes

Plan primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency routes (PACE) to and from key locations: home, school, work, grocery stores, and hospitals.

Smart Home Security

Today’s home tech can provide early warning and remote visibility, even when you're not on site.

Recommended Tools:

• Ring or Arlo Cameras – Motion-activated video with mobile alerts
• Wyze or Blink – Budget-friendly cameras and sensors
• SimpliSafe or Abode – DIY home security with panic buttons, alarms, and monitoring
• Smart lighting systems – Automate lights to simulate occupancy or trigger with motion

Link these systems to your phone or smartwatch for instant alerts when something’s off.

Wearable Technology

Sometimes, your phone isn't enough. That’s where wearable tech steps in to boost your SA without adding clutter.

Examples:

• Smartwatches (Apple, Garmin, Fitbit) – Discreet vibration alerts, location sharing, SOS features
• Personal GPS Beacons (e.g., Spot, Garmin inReach) – Life-saving in rural or off-grid settings
• Tile or AirTags – Track keys, bags, or even gear pouches in chaotic moments

Used properly, these wearables can reduce reaction time and keep you in control.

Communication & Coordination

When everything goes wrong, the most valuable tool is often a clear, working line of communication with your family or tribe.

Tools That Help:

• Zello – Turns your phone into a push-to-talk walkie-talkie
• Signal – Encrypted messaging with optional self-destruct timers
• Family Locator apps (Life360, GeoZilla) – See where your people are in real time

Always have a communication plan that includes:

• Primary + backup platforms
• Codewords or duress phrases
• Daily check-in procedures

Final Word: Don’t Outsource Your Instincts

Technology is a force multiplier—not a replacement for your brain.

The person buried in their phone—even while using a “situational awareness” app—is still a soft target.

At Sentinel Combatives, we teach:

• The mindset to detect threats early
• The body language to avoid becoming a target
• The skills to survive if Plan A fails

Use your tech to augment your awareness, but always train like you’ll need to operate without it.

📧 Contact: jerry@sentinelcombatives.com
📞 Phone: 828-415-0826