What does weapons awareness involve?

Weapons awareness involves maintaining visibility of your weapon and others on the vessel. This aspect is crucial for several reasons. First, it enhances safety for both the boarding team and the individuals on the vessel by ensuring that everyone is cognizant of where weapons are located. When a boarding team member has a clear view of their own weapon as well as the weapons of others, it fosters an environment where safety protocols can be observed and adherence to the rules of engagement can be maintained.

Moreover, maintaining visibility helps deter potential threats. If individuals on a vessel can see that the boarding team is vigilant about their weapons, it may discourage any aggressive actions on their part. Additionally, being aware of the locations of all weapons involved can help prevent accidental discharges or miscommunications during operations.

This focus on visibility aligns with the overarching principles of situational awareness, which is critical in dynamic environments like boarding operations. Understanding the positions of all weapons contributes to effective teamwork and coordination among boarding team members.