Safety Tips

Keeping Yourself Safe During Emergency Situations

Living in Northern Virginia, you'll hear reports about people being physically attacked.  It's human nature to have our guard down during comfortable situations.  Situation awareness involves being aware of what is happening around you.   Lack of situation awareness is a primary reason why tragedies occur.  Never let your guard down is a building block for survival.

Some simple steps on how to be street-safe:

Late Night Walking

• Always make sure someone knows where you're going and when you expect to be back.
• Keep to well-lit streets and away from potential danger spots, dark alleys, waste ground and shortcuts.
• Arrange to make your journey home with friends.
• Be aware of your surroundings. A personal stereo or too much alcohol can distract you.
• Always carry change or a phone card and a personal attack alarm.
• Head towards a busy public area if you think you're being followed.
• Walk facing the traffic so that a car cannot pull up behind you unnoticed.
• Have your keys in your hand ready to open the door. Don't wait until your at the door before looking for your keys.

Carrying a Bag

• Check it is closed with the opening facing towards your body.
• Do not keep your keys in the bag. If your bag is snatched, at least you will still have your keys.

Keeping Fit

• If you are jogging or cycling, remember to vary your route and the time that you exercise.
• Stick to well-lit roads and pavements and avoid wooded areas.

Pepper Spray Picks

Invest in Life Safety Products

Invest in safety products because your Life can depend on it.  My car went off the road during a snow storm and I couldn't get out.  I didn't have a cell phone or emergency supplies in the car.  I had to wait for a trusting person to assist me.  I don't want to be unprepared like that again.  Now I have a box in the car with kitty litter (I used it when I was stuck in the snow), window breaker, water, blankets, can opener, can food, and other items.  Take the time to build your emergency box. 

The below device is ResQMe

• Breaks windows with a push of a button 
• Cuts seat belts in one swipe and you are free