Summer vacation time is here and whether you are planning a; “stay”cation, traditional vacation, a weekend get away or a two week excursion, these safety reminders will help give you peace of mind that your home is secure. Don’t be naive to think that your home or neighborhood is immune from robbery. Today’s economy has made us all vulnerable.
Regardless of whether or not you have an electronic safety system in your home, choose only a select few people whom you trust, to know the details of your travel plans and help keep your home secure while you are away.
• Give your “home guardian” your vacation location, contact number and access to your house or apartment.
• Ask that they drive by and check on your home on a regular basis. It always looks good to have some activity at your home in case someone is watching.
• If your trip is a relatively short one, have the mail, newspapers and packages gathered each day. If you plan to be away for an extended period of time, have the post office hold all mail.
• Make sure any outdoor plants are cared for. Wilted window boxes are a sure sign of “vacation neglect”.
• It is also a good idea to give your friend the telephone number of a reputable plumber. Just in case!
DO NOT post your travel plans or vacation updates on any of the social networking sites. Wait until your return to post your photos. Explain to your children that your travel plans should remain private. Social networking has evolved into a way of life, but frankly it is a source of too much information going out to an uncontrollable number of people and puts you at risk for robbery, vandalism or an “unplanned” house party.
Reduce external views into your home and make it look like there is ongoing activity in your home.
• Close curtains and window shades
• Put several lights and a radio on a timer.
• Obviously set your house alarm and lock doors and windows, but reinforce them with a wooden or metal rod in the window or door track for extra protection.
• While away check your messages so your machine doesn’t fill up; give away that you’re away!
• Store your valuables (jewelry, cash, extra credit cards etc.) in a secure yet obscure place. DO NOT put them in your dresser or bedroom closet. Every thief starts his search in the bedroom.
Criminals look for any change in personal activity as an opening for a crime of opportunity. Inform your local police and/or community security force that you are leaving and who will be looking after your home.
Apply these simple safeguards and enjoy your vacation.
For information on your personal protection and safety please contact me at 631-425-0695 or mailto:michael@thinkselfprotection.com
Stay Safe.
Michael
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
12 Tips To Keep Yourself And Your Family Safe This Summer.
With so many people choosing to utilize beach and park locations for their getaways, it is important to review some safety principles in order to make every outing a safe and fun one for yourself and your family.
1. Always carry a charged cell phone and picture ID.
2. Leave extra credit and debit cards at home, in the car or at the hotel. Carry just the cash you will need for the day.
3. If you are in an unfamiliar city take the time to investigate the locations of beaches and parks before you venture out. Ask your concierge for the hotel’s recommendations.
4. Upon arrival at the beach or park, familiarize yourself with the layout; entrance(s), exits(s), security, first aide, etc.
5. Beware of distractions setting you up to be a victim of theft. Large noisy groups and individuals asking for directions are two commonly used scenarios.
6. Don’t leave your valuables unattended at a picnic site or beach blanket.
7. Review safety rules with your children and place a card with their name, your name and cell phone number in each child’s pocket.
8. Provide clear instructions to your children about who to approach and where to go should they get separated from you.
9. Never allow your child to go into a public restroom alone and don’t leave them unattended while you do so. As an adult it is also important for you to use caution in a public restroom taking the time to evaluate who is in the facility with you.
10. Don’t let yourself or children become isolated.
11. Be aware of adults who seem to be “lingering” and explain to your children that they should not engage in unsupervised conversation with an adult.
12. At the beach be cautious of adults swimming too close to your child and in the park of adults may seem too friendly.
Remember at this time of year, preparation is more than just applying sunscreen. Stay alert, focused and aware of your surroundings at all times. Being a bit more cautious never hurt anyone. Use your intuition, think safety, be prepared and enjoy your outing.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss safety options for your family, please feel free to contact me at mailto:michael@thinkselfprotection.com or call me at 631-425-0695.
Stay Safe.
Michael
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Daylight Savings Time…Change your mind not just your clock!
This weekend we changed our clocks to reflect daylight savings time and “lost” an hour. Studies have long debated the impact and duration of time change on the body and although your sleep patterns may be getting back to normal, I would bet the majority of you are still in need of adjusting your behavior. This can be particularly evident in our children whose capacity to adjust is most definitely challenged. As my brother in law once said, “who ever invented daylight savings time didn’t have children”. Those of you with kids know exactly what I am referring to.
Daylight savings, as with any time change you may encounter, can make you feel slightly disoriented, sluggish and a bit foggy. Simply put, you may not be at the top of your game! It is during these seasonal transitions that it becomes increasingly more important to become consciously aware of your surroundings while considering the “real” time versus the solar time. Particularly as we “wait” for it to get lighter earlier we must understand that regardless of the position of the sun, 5:00 AM is still early. Granted many of us are up and some out and on their way to work, but this time of day can leave us vulnerable just by the sheer fact that it is not the time of day that sees the majority of people commuting. Don’t let yourself become isolated, stay on well populated streets, utilize well lit and positioned parking spaces and have a companion if possible. Keep your cell phone charged and easily accessible and know where you are going. Remember to focus your mind and pay close attention to your surroundings. Don’t become complacent; be aware, conscious of your behavior and the behavior of those around you.
With Daylight Savings Time comes the inevitable and for many of us, long awaited arrival of Spring. Relish the change in season and promise that it brings, just do so safely.
Michael
For additional information on maintaining your personal safety please visit http://thinkselfprotection.com/ or call me directly at 631-425-0695
Daylight savings, as with any time change you may encounter, can make you feel slightly disoriented, sluggish and a bit foggy. Simply put, you may not be at the top of your game! It is during these seasonal transitions that it becomes increasingly more important to become consciously aware of your surroundings while considering the “real” time versus the solar time. Particularly as we “wait” for it to get lighter earlier we must understand that regardless of the position of the sun, 5:00 AM is still early. Granted many of us are up and some out and on their way to work, but this time of day can leave us vulnerable just by the sheer fact that it is not the time of day that sees the majority of people commuting. Don’t let yourself become isolated, stay on well populated streets, utilize well lit and positioned parking spaces and have a companion if possible. Keep your cell phone charged and easily accessible and know where you are going. Remember to focus your mind and pay close attention to your surroundings. Don’t become complacent; be aware, conscious of your behavior and the behavior of those around you.
With Daylight Savings Time comes the inevitable and for many of us, long awaited arrival of Spring. Relish the change in season and promise that it brings, just do so safely.
Michael
For additional information on maintaining your personal safety please visit http://thinkselfprotection.com/ or call me directly at 631-425-0695
Thursday, March 4, 2010
How do we keep our kids safe?
Recently there have been some incredibly tragic stories about the loss of young life. Some of these situations have been just horrible twists of fate and circumstance. Regardless, I find myself asking the question; How do we keep our kids safe? Remarkably as a specialist in personal protection I find myself continually asking that question because in the end, first and foremost, I am a father and innately want to do everything in my power to protect my children.
Although we can’t always successfully shield our children from life threatening accidents, personal safety should be addressed with our children regardless of their age. By providing the proper tools and knowledge along with a little hope, we pray that they are never faced with a situation in which they need to utilize that information!
I am a believer in knowledge as power and feel it is my responsibility to share with you some safety guidelines for keeping your children from harms way. Some may seem obvious and some are more applicable to younger children vs. teens, but if there is one suggestion that you weren’t aware of and it prompts you to have a discussion with your child about safety, then I’ve done my job. Please, be mindful, be safe, have the discussion.
-The fundamental principle behind personal safety that I instill into all of my students regardless of age is awareness. This can of course be challenging to young children and teens because their ability to focus isn’t fully developed and they can be easily distracted. However, that shouldn’t deter you from consistently reminding them and “teaching” them how to be aware of their surroundings and take note of what is going on. The skill of conscious awareness helps all of us tune into our surroundings and learn to avoid potentially threatening environments and situations.
-Children of all ages should understand that “NO adult ever needs help from a child”. This is a clear, definitive, non negotiable rule. No need to even get into the lollipops and puppies; it is simple and must be repeated over and over “NO adult ever needs help from a child”. Your teenagers should also understand that they have no obligation to engage in a conversation with an adult they don’t know. There is nothing wrong with just walking away. Better safe than sorry!
-Should your child find themselves encountering a stranger and feeling threatened; they should get loud, get noticed and get away. If necessary fight back and NEVER EVER get in the car.
-Teens are often faced with peer pressure to ride in a car with someone they don’t know well. These are the types of situations where instinct and your gut can clearly be giving a warning you should heed. Here is a perfect time to use that cell phone and call someone you trust to pick you up. I understand that it can be hard to break away from “the pack”, but it is not worth risking your safety.
-Never allow your child to go into a public restroom alone and don’t leave them unattended while you do so. Sometimes this gets tricky when your 10 year old doesn’t want to go in to the bathroom with Mom or Dad. If you can find a single person restroom do so, if not stand by the door and remain in verbal contact with your child.
-Generally speaking your teens should stay in pairs or small groups when going out. There is strength and safety in numbers as long as the group can stay focused and out of trouble.
-Explain to your children that travel and work schedules should be kept private. You never know who is listening when the discussion about an upcoming vacation or Mom or Dad’s business trip can be overheard. Ask older children not to post travel plans on Facebook or Twitter. Social networking is a way of life to them but, frankly it is a source of too much information going out to an uncontrollable number of people and puts you at risk for robbery, vandalism or an “unplanned” house party.
-Teens who come home to an empty house should have the name of a neighbor who is available should a problem arise. If they enter the house and notice anything amiss tell them to turn around, get out and ask the neighbor for help. Children of any age should never open the door for a stranger. This includes all delivery and repair people; even those we see on a regular basis. Your child should never let on to a phone caller that he/she is alone. Advise them to end the conversation quickly and if asked for an adult, simply say “they can’t come to the phone right now.”
Please talk to your kids and remember example is the best teaching tool. So as a parent, you too should exhibit these safe behaviors and set the example for your children.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss safety options for your children or a special young adult in your life, please feel free to contact me.
http://michael@thinkselfprotection.com 631-425-0695.
Stay safe,
Michael
Although we can’t always successfully shield our children from life threatening accidents, personal safety should be addressed with our children regardless of their age. By providing the proper tools and knowledge along with a little hope, we pray that they are never faced with a situation in which they need to utilize that information!
I am a believer in knowledge as power and feel it is my responsibility to share with you some safety guidelines for keeping your children from harms way. Some may seem obvious and some are more applicable to younger children vs. teens, but if there is one suggestion that you weren’t aware of and it prompts you to have a discussion with your child about safety, then I’ve done my job. Please, be mindful, be safe, have the discussion.
-The fundamental principle behind personal safety that I instill into all of my students regardless of age is awareness. This can of course be challenging to young children and teens because their ability to focus isn’t fully developed and they can be easily distracted. However, that shouldn’t deter you from consistently reminding them and “teaching” them how to be aware of their surroundings and take note of what is going on. The skill of conscious awareness helps all of us tune into our surroundings and learn to avoid potentially threatening environments and situations.
-Children of all ages should understand that “NO adult ever needs help from a child”. This is a clear, definitive, non negotiable rule. No need to even get into the lollipops and puppies; it is simple and must be repeated over and over “NO adult ever needs help from a child”. Your teenagers should also understand that they have no obligation to engage in a conversation with an adult they don’t know. There is nothing wrong with just walking away. Better safe than sorry!
-Should your child find themselves encountering a stranger and feeling threatened; they should get loud, get noticed and get away. If necessary fight back and NEVER EVER get in the car.
-Teens are often faced with peer pressure to ride in a car with someone they don’t know well. These are the types of situations where instinct and your gut can clearly be giving a warning you should heed. Here is a perfect time to use that cell phone and call someone you trust to pick you up. I understand that it can be hard to break away from “the pack”, but it is not worth risking your safety.
-Never allow your child to go into a public restroom alone and don’t leave them unattended while you do so. Sometimes this gets tricky when your 10 year old doesn’t want to go in to the bathroom with Mom or Dad. If you can find a single person restroom do so, if not stand by the door and remain in verbal contact with your child.
-Generally speaking your teens should stay in pairs or small groups when going out. There is strength and safety in numbers as long as the group can stay focused and out of trouble.
-Explain to your children that travel and work schedules should be kept private. You never know who is listening when the discussion about an upcoming vacation or Mom or Dad’s business trip can be overheard. Ask older children not to post travel plans on Facebook or Twitter. Social networking is a way of life to them but, frankly it is a source of too much information going out to an uncontrollable number of people and puts you at risk for robbery, vandalism or an “unplanned” house party.
-Teens who come home to an empty house should have the name of a neighbor who is available should a problem arise. If they enter the house and notice anything amiss tell them to turn around, get out and ask the neighbor for help. Children of any age should never open the door for a stranger. This includes all delivery and repair people; even those we see on a regular basis. Your child should never let on to a phone caller that he/she is alone. Advise them to end the conversation quickly and if asked for an adult, simply say “they can’t come to the phone right now.”
Please talk to your kids and remember example is the best teaching tool. So as a parent, you too should exhibit these safe behaviors and set the example for your children.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss safety options for your children or a special young adult in your life, please feel free to contact me.
http://michael@thinkselfprotection.com 631-425-0695.
Stay safe,
Michael
Monday, December 28, 2009
A Hero in Seat 20J
This weekend another “hero” arose from the midst of our everyday lives. The circumstances on the Northwest flight to Detroit found Jasper Schuringa as he says in his own words “Without any hesitation, I just jumped over all the seats… I just went over there to try to save the plane…..” His instinct took over and as a result lives were saved! How would you react under those same circumstances? Certainly you’ve been asking yourself that question each time you read the articles surrounding the events of the terror threat to flight #253.
Some of you know innately that you too would react defensively. Some of you aren’t quite sure. We must not kid ourselves any longer. Acts of violence ARE a potential part of our everyday lives. It is our responsibility to be prepared, to know intuitively, without hesitation how to react to a threat.
I have the privilege of working with individuals all the time to bring out their potential, their inner hero. With the proper defensive training and psychological preparation they too would be able to tap into their inner resources and help protect those around them. It is incredibly rewarding for me to see the transformation take place. The building of confidence, strength, power and technique.
I certainly hope that you, we, aren’t faced with these threatening challenges; unfortunately history and recent events tell us otherwise. As we celebrate the start of a New Year I wish you and all of our loved ones, health, happiness, security and safety. I also ask you, to ask yourself, if there is more you should be doing to ensure those wishes come true.
If you would like to discuss how to be more aware, prepared and have the ability to protect, please contact me michael@thinkselfprotection.com or call 631-425-0695.
Some of you know innately that you too would react defensively. Some of you aren’t quite sure. We must not kid ourselves any longer. Acts of violence ARE a potential part of our everyday lives. It is our responsibility to be prepared, to know intuitively, without hesitation how to react to a threat.
I have the privilege of working with individuals all the time to bring out their potential, their inner hero. With the proper defensive training and psychological preparation they too would be able to tap into their inner resources and help protect those around them. It is incredibly rewarding for me to see the transformation take place. The building of confidence, strength, power and technique.
I certainly hope that you, we, aren’t faced with these threatening challenges; unfortunately history and recent events tell us otherwise. As we celebrate the start of a New Year I wish you and all of our loved ones, health, happiness, security and safety. I also ask you, to ask yourself, if there is more you should be doing to ensure those wishes come true.
If you would like to discuss how to be more aware, prepared and have the ability to protect, please contact me michael@thinkselfprotection.com or call 631-425-0695.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Holiday Shopping...Remember to Be Safe!
Here we are full force into the “Holiday Season”. This can be such a hectic time of year with over loaded days.
I’d like to share some suggestions for staying safe while you are shopping for your Holiday celebration.
-First and foremost, awareness is key! You must be aware of what is going on around you!
-Always have a charged and easily accessible cell phone. You may need to reach it quickly. Keep 911 on speed dial.
-Exercise caution when using the ATM machine. Be aware of individuals lingering, cover the key pad when entering your PIN. Do not stand in plain sight counting your money.
-Avoid becoming distracted. Large noisy groups, someone asking for help or directions; you must make a conscious effort to remain alert and in tune with what is going on around you. When you are consistently aware of your surroundings you make the right choices to maintain your safety. You must be proactive.
-Don’t leave your personal items unattended. This is a classic example of “easy” theft. It happens all the time!
-If possible shop with a friend. “Safety in numbers” is a genuine deterrent.
-Choose your parking spots carefully. Park close to the entrance of the building. Choose a spot that is under a light; remember where you parked. When you exit a store you DO NOT need to be searching a dark parking. If you feel uneasy ask security to escort you. Better safe, than sorry!
-Don’t overload yourself with packages. Consolidate. Make several trips to the car if necessary and have your keys in hand and ready. Don’t spend time organizing your packages in the trunk. Get yourself safely in the car quickly and LOCK the doors.
-Make sure someone is aware of your schedule and where you will be.
-And please, leave your false bravado, “I can handle myself” or “it could never happen to me” at home. These tough economic times are resulting in people taking drastic measures to survive. Be prepared and it won’t happen to you.
I hope you will find these suggestions helpful and maybe they will make you think twice about your safety before you venture out. If one person averts harm, then I have accomplished my goal of helping people maintain their safety and security. It’s what I do!
There is No Protection…without Self Protection.
Stay Safe and enjoy the season!
Michael
I’d like to share some suggestions for staying safe while you are shopping for your Holiday celebration.
-First and foremost, awareness is key! You must be aware of what is going on around you!
-Always have a charged and easily accessible cell phone. You may need to reach it quickly. Keep 911 on speed dial.
-Exercise caution when using the ATM machine. Be aware of individuals lingering, cover the key pad when entering your PIN. Do not stand in plain sight counting your money.
-Avoid becoming distracted. Large noisy groups, someone asking for help or directions; you must make a conscious effort to remain alert and in tune with what is going on around you. When you are consistently aware of your surroundings you make the right choices to maintain your safety. You must be proactive.
-Don’t leave your personal items unattended. This is a classic example of “easy” theft. It happens all the time!
-If possible shop with a friend. “Safety in numbers” is a genuine deterrent.
-Choose your parking spots carefully. Park close to the entrance of the building. Choose a spot that is under a light; remember where you parked. When you exit a store you DO NOT need to be searching a dark parking. If you feel uneasy ask security to escort you. Better safe, than sorry!
-Don’t overload yourself with packages. Consolidate. Make several trips to the car if necessary and have your keys in hand and ready. Don’t spend time organizing your packages in the trunk. Get yourself safely in the car quickly and LOCK the doors.
-Make sure someone is aware of your schedule and where you will be.
-And please, leave your false bravado, “I can handle myself” or “it could never happen to me” at home. These tough economic times are resulting in people taking drastic measures to survive. Be prepared and it won’t happen to you.
I hope you will find these suggestions helpful and maybe they will make you think twice about your safety before you venture out. If one person averts harm, then I have accomplished my goal of helping people maintain their safety and security. It’s what I do!
There is No Protection…without Self Protection.
Stay Safe and enjoy the season!
Michael
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
