“Check your six” or simply “Check Six” is advice often given by those with either a tactical law enforcement or military background. Simply put, “check six” reminds us to be aware of our surroundings, not just what is in front and to the sides but what is behind us as well. Trouble often comes from the rear as the bad guys try to take you by surprise.

In a recent conversation a close friend told me how the practice of checking his six saved him from trouble while out in public. As a bit of background, the man in question is a police officer with fifteen plus years of street experience. This gentleman was actually off the job and on vacation with his wife when the incident occurred.