Personal Safety in the Realm of Real Estate
Posted by [email protected] on Sep. 16, 2016 / Education / Subscribe 0
As a property manager, have you ever walked your property alone in the dark? Have you ever found a squatter in a vacant space or been alone in your empty garage? Often times, when you find yourself in these situations, you’re thinking about doing your job and not about being safe. We recently held a Self Defense Workshop for our members and found there is a great need for skills and awareness in Property Management as it relates to personal safety. With the help of Mark Wright, Director of Security for Brookfield - Houston Region, we’re providing you with the top three tips from our workshop to keep yourself safe.
Tip 1. Have a Plan
Always have a plan for your personal safety. Think about who is around you, consider possible threats from your environment, and take note of nearby exits. By making a conscious effort to be aware and prepared, you will always be ahead of the game. If you do find yourself in a position to be the victim of a crime, you want to be prepared to escape that situation. Additionally, in the unfortunate event you have to report a crime, the more details you can provide, the greater chance authorities have of finding the perpetrator(s).
Tip 2. Don't "Fall Into Your Phone"
People who appear distracted are easy targets for crime. There are many things that can be considered distractions, but the #1 item most people have and use on a constant basis a cellphone. As a property manager you’re likely doing many tasks “on-the-go” and it’s easy to lose sight of things happening beyond the tiny screen in your hand. When you’re distracted by your phone, you can be perceived as a “sitting duck” by potential attackers. Whatever it is, it can wait until you’re in a safe, secure environment.
Tip 3. PROJECT yourself!
We’ve all heard the advice to make yourself “look big” if you encounter a Bear or Mountain Lion. The idea is to look like a challenge the animal doesn’t want to take on. Well, the same bodes true with humans. If you “look big”, you are much less likely to be perceived as an easy target. Body language that sends a message of strength is a deterrent to most criminals who are looking for the easiest victim. Keep your eyes up, stand tall and look alert.
And one last thing: it’s always good to be equipped with some basic self-defense techniques should you find yourself the victim of an attacker, but we’ll leave that information to the professionals. IREM Houston members had a wonderful learning experience with Instructor Shawn Key and Coach Andy Yount from Gracie Humaita Houston. You can find information on their teachings here.
Bottom Line: Always make your safety priority!
About the Author: Lindsay Konlande currently serves as the Association Assistant for IREM Houston. Lindsay earned her Bachelor Degree in Communication from Texas A&M and has several years of experience in marketing, public relations and copywriting.
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