Defensive Countermeasures Institute —

When it comes to projects around the house, most homeowners will agree there are no shortages of necessary jobs.  Whether your need is fixing a leaky faucet or converting your musty basement from storage space to recreation room, chances are sooner or later you’ll be pressed to contract out the work.  A great place to start your search is of course your local business directory.  Ask all prospects for references and follow up on the information given.  After the initial leg work is complete, the contractor will want to see first-hand what work is to be performed.  Many times work on that leaky faucet or maintenance on the air-conditioner that remained idle through winter can be completed in a single visit.  The basement, however may take weeks before it is transformed into the vision of your dreams.  Nonetheless, when inviting strangers into your home for any reason, there a few sound security precautions you should consider beforehand.

1.  When setting up the initial visit, insist that the contractor provide you with a time of arrival.  Private contactors should be able narrow the arrival time down to within an hour; say, between 1:00 -2:00 pm.  Larger businesses may balk at specifics.  In those cases, ask the person whom you arrange the visit through to provide the name of the employee responding to the call, and make a note.  If you are unfamiliar with the firm, ask the operator for a description of the company vehicle.  Upon arrival, the information given should check out.  When in doubt, ask for positive identification, such as a driver’s license or company ID.  Never let the arrival into your home when there is uncertainty.

2.  Provide instruction to your contractor how to approach your home.  A contractor should never be instructed to approach any area other than the main entrance to your home or office.  Unless there is a risk of injury—unsafe stairs or deck, for example—a contractor should always be directed to the front or main entrance.

3. Prepare you home before the arrival.  Expect that you will need to show the area where the work is to be preformed.  Also give some thought to the route you will lead the contractor along to the worksite. The path should be well lit and free of obstacles.  Tightly close doors to adjoining rooms to discourage curiosity and disclosing the layout of your home.  It may be necessary to leave the contractor to conduct the work but make a point to peer in at regular intervals to ensure that he remains on task.  It is also a very good idea to inspect the areas the contractor entered after departing your home.  Look to ensure that nothing is out of place. Check that windows and outside doors have not been unlocked.

4. During the preliminary estimate or after the job is complete, a flat surface is often needed to review documents or provide payment for services rendered.  Have this location prepared in advance and keep information on a need to know basis and strictly at a business level. Keep your communication on a professional basis at all times and do not allow yourself to become too friendly with the contractor you are working with. The space should be clear of personal papers, such as bank statements, schedules or photographs. This eliminates the risk to these items being intentionally or unintentionally mixed in with the contractor’s brochures, invoices—and your check—when he departs.

Other tips to consider

You may also find it useful to have someone else with you in your home during the contractor’s visit.  If this is not possible consider having the volume of a radio or television playing softly behind one of the closed doors. Briefly phoning a friend within earshot of the contractor—making certain to explain that “Bob from Plumber World” is presently working in your home and you will return her call after work is complete.  I know of one woman who goes to the trouble preparing a light snack for the “occupant” watching TV behind one of the closed doors whenever a stranger must enter her home.  What is incredibly ingenious about this is that she lives alone and smart as a whip.

Finally, if the project is going to be long term, you’ll need to set some ground rules.  Identify to the contractor what floors and rooms he will have access to.  He must be told in no uncertain terms.  You must also expect that he will require the use of a bathroom from time to time.  If possible, one on the floor where the work is being completed is perfectly acceptable.  Keep it as sparse as possible.  Throw in some personal hygiene items associated with men for good measure—like after shave or gun oil. The choice is yours.   Stay Safe!

Well it is now official; Spring has finally arrived for most of us here in North America. The bees have started to leave the hives to begin pollinating the annuals that are reaching out and competing for the warmth of the Sun’s rays. Here in West Michigan, our lakes have absorbed their icy layers and the time has come to begin packing in the winter wear and pulling down the summer attire. Our thoughts have turned to outdoor activities. This is the time of year when seasonal joggers and cyclists take to the paths and roadways to enjoy their sport. If you are one of the countless individuals who fall into this category, we invite you to read further.

Your sport is one in which millions of Americans enjoy. Many find the exhilaration from a bike ride through the countryside or a leisurely paced run through city parks or along rural pathways as a pleasure that is without equal. Each offer excellent cardio vascular exercise, as well as an opportunity to escape the stresses that may otherwise impact lives.

While these activities are enjoyable, worthwhile endeavors they also require some common sense practices that take into account your personal safety and security. What each of the activities has in common is that they eventually lead you away from a point of departure. Generally speaking, the physical space we occupy with our presence offers the greatest degree of security. Your home or your automobile are just two such examples. As threats to our safety materialize, one means of countering danger is to move to an alternate location—ideally one that limits vulnerabilities, or at least makes them more manageable.

Consider for a moment a vehicle motorcade engaged with the safe movement of a protected entity. Again as a general rule, the formation has three elements: the advance element, the main body and a follow-on element. The main body has a degree of safety in the space it occupies. As the motorcade begins to move to its destination, the lead element has responsibility of securing all areas the main body will occupy or otherwise pass through. The follow-on element protects against any security breach from the rear of the formation and may also serve to secure an area for the main body in the event a significant threat materializes and a safe area of retreat is needed.

With outdoor activities—such as jogging or cycling—we often begin with a departure from a relatively safe area lightly equipped to fend off an attacker, be it man or beast. Moreover, the nature of these sports compels us to overtake “uncleared” space as we advance along the route, thus reducing needed reaction time should a threat occur. Unless you consider a bicycle pump or a size 12 running shoe as defensive tools, you—like most others—rely heavily on the senses to alert you to dangers that may be encountered and to formulate evasive or defensive measures should the need arise. This is a reasonable option and is the basis for understanding the importance of remaining vigilant.

Unfortunately, one scenario that can be seen time and time again is runners and cyclists wearing audio headphones and keeping pace with the aid of 10 gigabytes of tunes saved on their IPod. If you ever what to signal “distracted and vulnerable” to an assailant, there is better way then by huffing and puffing while bobbing your head to the beat of some former American Idol contestant. Chance are better than even that at some point you’ll step off a curb or ride directly in the path of some similarly distracted motorist who is listening to the same “Idol” singer as you are.  Not the type of meeting that leads to “Happily ever after.”

Dispense with the headphones. Unless you’re running with a pack of Secret Service agents at your heels, you’re traveling much too lightly in most instances to defend yourself—unless of course, you can outrun your attacker. Your senses need to be heightened and remain sharp.

–Instead, try finding a partner who enjoys the sport as much as you—someone you can rely on to keep an activity schedule that works for you. Together you can increase your degree of vilginance and reduce vulnerability. In addition, the time may prove to be more enjoyable if you find someone to share it with. Another benefit comes from the subtle competition that occurs between you and your partner and the discovery that she or he is wheezing just as hard as you are.

–Know the route and let others know it too. Drive as much of the route as possible beforehand becoming as familiar with it as possible. Look for blind spots, low lying or wooded areas. Also, remain alert for designated parking areas or rest spots along your route where vehicles may remain parked for periods of time without raising suspicions. These are danger points for joggers, hikers and others; particularly if traveling alone and on the fringes of populated areas.  When you are able to describe to others the route from start to finish, you’ll have done your homework. Be sure to plan enough time for your outing that allows you a return to your safe area well before night falls. If you need to cut the run or ride short, then so be it or put it off for another day.

–During the outing, keep alert for others along your trail. If your route is one well-known and exclusive to runners, your sense of security should immediately heighten if you come into contact with anyone who does not fit the normal activity profile. Always maintain a 360 degree of awareness from start to finish.  If running alone don’t push yourself to the point of physical exhaustion. You’ll be physically less able to fend off an attacker if you are overtaxed and out of breath. And since you will be short-winded your ability to yell or scream for assistance will be at its limits also. For this reason, it is a good idea to have a whistle with you. Invest in one that uses a plastic or wood ball which can be found at most sporting good stores. Pair this with a detachable lanyard and you’ll be in business.

Lastly, we encourage you to cast off any mind set of “It won’t happen to me.” Be vigilant; be prudent; but don’t be so overconfident that you take off for a jog or bike ride with a naïve sense of security. It’s difficult to be taken by surprise when you are well prepared while enjoying your favorite sport. Now turn off the computer, set down your book and lace up your shoes and then head outside into the fresh Spring air. It only comes around once a year. Be safe!

Before you get into your vehicle do you always sneak a peek inside first?  Or do you just jump in because you’re always in a hurry to get to your next destination?

Make it a habit to always look inside your vehicle prior to opening the door.  Whether it is day or night, locked or unlocked, parked in your garage or parked in public – always look first.

Tinted windows?  Then get right up to the glass and peer in.  You would not likely jump into a swimming pool without checking to see if there is water in there – likewise, do not get into the safety of your vehicle until you’ve determined that it is truly safe.

At night you should use a flashlight to shine into the front, back and hatch.  If someone was lying in wait, you’d surely see him.  Too many people are counting on you for you to take the “it won’t happen to me” mindset.

How many times have we heard about the importance of not sharing your digits with others? “Protect your account numbers, passwords, etc.” Yet those who have attended workshops with DCI know how important it is to share important data with others. Have you done so yet?

In light our mission to define empowerment through personal security strategies and solutions, this topics bears repeating. If you go out of town, is your family fully prepared to take care of each other and any details until you return?

Do you have all of your vital records (contact information, credit card numbers, insurance policies, wills, etc.) in one central location? Ideally this information should be in a fireproof safe. At the very least, keep it in a tight, waterproof zip-lock baggie or container. Also ensure this information is given to an out of town relative or close friend.

Get your paperwork in order. “Someday/one-day” is here; it’s TODAY. Do it now!

As we promised in our last topic of discussion The Times, They Are A Changing, this week will address precautions that we should all be aware of when paying a visit to gas stations, quick stops and other such facilities.  Before we begin, let us point out that in terms of comparative safety, gas stations that allow patrons to pay at the pump offer a greater degree of security.  While understandably filling the tank of your vehicle does require you to step outside, you remain in close proximity of it, which affords a measure of protection and barrier against crimes of opportunity.

If you—like most—travel away from your home during days of the week, it is inevitable that at some point you will stop for one necessary commodity or another.  It may be for a tank of gas or a loaf of bread and a quart of milk.  Many times these stops are impromptu or lightly anticipated at best.  The desire is to get it done quickly and get back underway.  It is this behavior as consumers that has given enormous rise to gas stations, quick-stops, convenience stores and the like that hawk everything from lottery tickets to Elvis t-shirts.

Criminal opportunists recognize these locations as a source of quick cash with minimal risks, with some facilities so fruitful that multiple robberies are common.  With this is mind, there are some precautions that you can, and should implement if you are otherwise obligated to use one or more of these types of businesses.  Remember these simple steps with the phrase, “It’s wise to use your “I’s.”

–Inspect.  Once reaching the decision to stop, inspect the surrounding area before exiting the relative safety of your vehicle. Look for signs of abnormal activity such as individuals loitering nearby—particularly on the sides of the storefront overlooking the customer entrance.  Many times a lookout or surveillant will post themselves in these locations. Be mindful of other vehicles stopped nearby.  Watch for occupants in vehicles with engines idling or irregular parking patterns. Commit to entering only after you eliminated any outside threats.

–Inside.  Before crossing the threshold of the store, take a cursory look for activity inside. If lack of windows restricts your viewing, this is accomplished by pausing momentarily at the entrance and peering around inside.  Observe for the location of the cashier or other workers.  Do things look and feel normal? Look for signs of duress or anxiety.  Workers can give a feel for “business as usual,” and their outward disposition will often yield signs of normalcy or apprehensiveness.  Monitor the situation for other patrons who may be present or for those entering after you.  Stay alert and do not become distracted.

–Identify.  Have a plan.  Identify what it is that you need to purchase, locate it quickly and proceed to the cashier or checkout without lingering.  Get what you need and stay no longer than necessary to complete your transaction.  Moreover, just as you inspected the surrounding area before entering, the same is required of activities outside.  If no threats are present, commit to walking outside and move in the most direct manner to your vehicle.

–Instinct.  One of the most important tools that we possess that aids in our personal safety and security is instinct.  Learn to trust it.  If we sense something is not as it initially seems—in particular when focused on reducing vulnerability to crimes of opportunity—it is a good rule of thumb not to ignore it.

Too often convenience can lead to complacency. It is imperative that we adopt a mindset that allows us to maintain vigilance in all that we do.  One manner of feeding this focus is by remaining abreast of social, political and economic realities within the environments we frequent. Crime will always manifest some degree of presence within our neighborhoods and society at large.  Our goal is to anticipate its impact on personal safety and security and plan accordingly.  “Stay Safe!”

It’s time to lift our heads from the proverbial sandbox and acknowledge that the US economy has begun to slow, as some may argue, considerably.

One thing is certain—more and more Americans are encountering difficulty with finding high paying jobs while others struggle to make financial ends meet.  Nevertheless, Americans are overwhelmingly resilient, repeatedly demonstrating the ability to rebound from troubling times, emerging stronger than before.

The unfortunate side to the predicament we are facing as a nation is the period of uncertainty.  How long before our economy breaks free of its sluggish performance and picks up so folks can return to honest work and a sense of normalcy?

When viewing times such as these with the perspective on personal safety and security, it is understandable why vigilance is paramount.   An unfortunate reality to consider is the inclination of social predators to sink even lower, becoming more audacious and brazen in their criminal behavior.   It is often stated that “desperate times require desperate measures.”  This practice applies to both sides of the social spectrum.  As the criminal element in our society begins to feel the affects of an economic slowdown—and they will—we should anticipate their move to seek out targets of opportunity and avoid becoming a victim.

Quick sources of cash are the most sought after.  We should always assume that ATM machines are under surveillance by criminally minded individuals or even groups, hoping to cash in as you take cash out.  For this reason, it is ill advised to use these bank instruments during darkness.  Some other points to consider about ATMs:

–Machines should provide superb light and should be clear of any close objects that provide concealment to anyone nearby, nor should obstacles impede your ability to monitor your surroundings when withdrawing cash.  If anything does not look or feel right, move on and find another location.

–Complete your transaction quickly and do not count your cash at the machine.  Retrieve your cash, card and receipt if requested and move to a safe area.  Typically, machines located inside businesses, such as shopping malls or grocery stores are safest.  This is because there are usually more people present.  The old adage “safety in numbers” applies.  Least safe are those found in gas stations or roadside quick stops.  These ATM should be avoided when at all possible.
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–ATMs that allow you to drive up and remain in the vehicle have advantages and disadvantages.  As an advantage, they allow you to remain safe in your vehicle during the transaction.  Pull up as close to the machine as possible.  Ideally, this allows you to reach the keypad without leaning too far out of the window. The disadvantage is with visibility, which is obscured. There are numerous blindsides around your vehicle that could conceal someone’s approach.  For this reason, all doors should remain locked and ensure you keep the engine running.  As the computer is reviewing your account request, remain alert and monitor the immediate area for anyone moving toward you.  Others in the vehicle with you can assist with observation.   Remember, if you feel threatened, depart immediately and report the incident to local law enforcement. 

Our next discussion will address precautions needed when visiting everyday facilities, such as gas stations and fast-food restaurants. You won’t want to miss tips for remaining safe at these and other places of business.  Hope to see you again next week.  “Be Safe!”

Many recognize the value of a hard-earned dollar. In fact, much of our working lives are devoted to earning even more dollars, thus being able to provide for some of life’s necessities and increasing financial wealth in the process.  In time, we begin to understand the power of investing a portion of our earnings wisely and the dividend growth that follows.

Another instrument worthy of wise investment is the time it takes to develop the mental capital needed to master common sense approaches. We have all heard at one time or another that the solution to a particular problem is “common sense.” But what is ‘common sense’ and how do we know if we truly possess it?

This unique reference to communal knowledge works its way into discussions about personal safety and security as well.  For example, “It’s just common sense not to open your door to a stranger.” or,  “Common sense dictates that you don’t leave a firearm anywhere within reach of a child.” Arguably, few adults would disagree with the logic of these statements.  Unfortunately, each of these sound measures is violated repeatedly and often meets with tragic results.  The problem can be traced to the failure to invest in mental capital and spending it to reach common sense solutions.

To understand the path to common sense as a conscious undertaking is to acknowledge the requirement to analyze choices by weighing the near and long-term outcomes, e.g. to what extent will our decisions influence the nature of our environment.  Simply stated, each challenge faced produces a unique set of circumstances, which may only be addressed in two manners—the right way and the wrong way. Reaching the correct solution requires thinking through the problem and uncovering the positive or desired outcome.

Let’s return to the first common sense example.  In most every instance, we choose correctly not to open our door to a stranger, recognizing the near-term threat to our safety and well-being. This decision is reached quickly since we have acquired the mental capital that—when divested or spent—calculates the risk involved. The common sense dividend is personal security.

In the second example, the potential for serious injury or death resulting from failure to secure a firearm in such a manner that precludes a curious child from handling it is another example of the benefit from analyzing decisions—and the near and/or long-term impact. Firearms are one of many tools that may be selected to increase personal security. However, like any tool, firearms—left unsecured where children are present—pose unacceptable risks to serious injury or death.   Upon thinking through the scenario it becomes clear a positive outcome demands storing the weapon in a safe and secure manner—out of a child’s reach. Once again, we see the advantages of investing in mental capital.  The common sense dividend is a safer environment for children.

In summary, common sense is the solution-based decision, which produces a positive outcome and is only arrived at through careful calculation and experience. Acquiring these sound skills and techniques through education and practice is a step in the right-direction to dividend growth that aids with increasing personal safety and security.  For more information on how you or your employer can benefit from our personal safety and security-based solutions, contact DCI today.  There’s no obligation. Begin investing in your security today. Be Safe!

CPSC Warns Winter Storm Victims: Use Portable Generators Outdoors Only

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is issuing a warning to consumers confronted with severe winter weather. When there’s a power outage, exercise caution when using portable generators.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible killer. You can’t see or smell it. A generator’s exhaust contains poisonous CO which can kill you in a matter of minutes.

At least 65 people died in 2006 from generator-related CO poisoning. Many of the deaths occurred after winter storms knocked out power.

Follow these important generator safety tips:

* Never use a portable generator inside a home, garage, shed or other partially enclosed space, even if doors and windows are open.

* Use portable generators outside only, far away from the home. And keep the generator away from openings to the home, including doors, windows and vents.

* Read the label on the generator and the owner’s manual, and follow the instructions.

* Install CO alarms with battery backup in the home outside each sleeping area.

* Get to fresh air immediately if you start to feel sick, weak or dizzy. CO poisoning from exposure to generator exhaust can quickly lead to incapacitation and death.

CPSC recently mandated a new danger label on generators manufactured after May 14, 2007. The label states that, “Using a generator indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES.”

CPSC has additional rulemaking underway on generators. The Commission directed staff to investigate various strategies to reduce consumers’ exposure to CO and to enable and encourage them to use generators outdoors only. Those strategies include generator engines with substantially reduced CO emissions, interlocking or automatic shutoff devices, weatherization requirements, theft deterrence and noise reduction.

In addition to safe generator use, CPSC suggests consumers follow these safety tips after a storm:

• Never use charcoal indoors. Burning charcoal in an enclosed space can produce lethal carbon monoxide.

• Use caution when burning candles. Use flashlights instead. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles when you leave the room.
• Do not use portable heaters or lanterns while sleeping in enclosed areas such as tents, campers, and other vehicles. This is especially important at high altitudes, where the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is increased.

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission 8 January 2008

Depending on where you are located geographically, you may encounter special circumstances when driving during the changing seasons.  Many parts of the country are now experiencing rain, snow, fog and an increase in deer traffic – all which make driving potentially hazardous.  Additionally, along with the rise in holiday road traffic we see a rise in opportunity to be stranded along the road.

If you have not already had your vehicle winterized, now is the time to do so.  Ensure tires have enough tread, fluids and brakes are properly working and schedule a tune up if it has been a while.  Also, keep a set of jumper cables and a blanket in your vehicle.

If you break down on the road –

The obvious answer would be to call someone for help.  With the advent of cell phones, being stranded on the road is not as much of a concern.  So, what happens if you do not have a cell phone or if your battery is dead or you cannot get a signal? Then what will you do?

If the breakdown occurs along a well traveled highway, attempt to notify motorists with the use of highway flashers and by raising the hood of your vehicle. With luck, another driver will come along and provide assistance.  However, you should avoid getting into any vehicle that happens along.  Instead, ask the driver to summon assistance for you.  Provide them with the number of someone you trust.  If a true emergency exists and you elect to accept a ride, make note of the license plate number of the Samaritan’s vehicle—along with other information such as time and direction headed—and leave it in your vehicle where it is easily located.

Should the breakdown occur on an isolated stretch of highway, stay with your vehicle. Again, raising the hood is a universal signal indicating trouble or assistance is needed.  Additionally, in these situations nothing can be more important than a personal survival kit that remains with the vehicle.  Nutritional food, water, warm clothing and first aid essentials are the minimum items to include. 

Deer Crossing –

The change of season also brings about a change in travel patterns for deer.  Note deer often travel in groups, therefore if you see one, chances are favorable there are others nearby.  You must be vigilant while you are driving, particulary during darkenss or periods of reduced visibility.  Remain vigilant and scan the sides of the road often, looking for the reflection in the deer’s eyes.  Sometimes they jump out so quickly you do not have time to react.  However, if you do see a deer standing near the side of the road, slow down.  Do not try to swerve to avoid hitting the animal – as this could cause you to potentially roll your vehicle and cause more damage.

Reduce speed gradually while maintaining control of your vehicle.  Be mindful of vehicles to your rear, as they may not expect breaking. Doing so may avoid being rear-ended.  Also, be aware that many states require law enforcement notification in the event you have a collision with a deer.

Winter brings about seasonal change that requires preparation to weather it safely.  Take stock of what you need to accomplish to be safe while traveling the nation’s winter roads this holiday season.  Be Safe!

We last discussed important points to consider when returning to your vehicle after a day of frenzied holiday shopping. Consider your vehicle a mobile safe haven; it protects you from the elements and provides a degree of safety and security from physical threats. This exemplifies the importance of knowing exactly how to reach it safely after exiting buildings and equally important not to step out from it too hastily. Consider the following when heading out on your shopping spree.

Most of us truly look forward to the year-end holiday celebrations but often dread the hectic pace that leads to them. Even the most affluent shopper will snatch up a bargain given the opportunity to do so. And so, it is the quest for that perfect gift that leads us into unfamiliar territory. Often times we drive enormous distances to a cross-town location that offers that last chance of having that one special gift remaining on the shelf or in-stock—we never give a second thought that it is a part of the city that we infrequently visit. Thus, we venture onto unfamiliar turf.

This in and of itself is not reason enough to avoid the drive altogether, but it does require an understanding of the tools we possess that can aid our security in these instances. Remember your “mobile safe haven?” Just as we acknowledged the importance of returning to your vehicle in the safest and direct manner, it is equally important to survey the surrounding area before stepping from it.

After arriving at your destination, spend a few moments in the relative safety of your vehicle and decompress from having just shared the highway with highly motivated bargain hunters like yourself. Use this time to gather your thoughts and plan your movement to the building you will need to enter. Also, be watchful for the surrounding norms—things that seem as likely occurrences. Scrutinize the areas you will need to cross through to reach your destination. Once you have determined that the area appears safe, then and only then should you unlock your door and proceed to make the purchase that will put a smile on the face of someone special.

Holiday shopping can be a joy. It also is a time to recall our blessings and give thanks for our relative safety and security. Enjoy the spirit and Be Safe!