REALTORSafety2011

REALTORS® should review safety tips because they face more on-the-job risks than many other business professionals. REALTORS® are at risk when they show homes to strangers or meet them at open houses, and even when they put themselves out on the internet and on social media. Attackers look for unsuspecting, vulnerable targets, so prevention is the best self-defense. If you act like a victim, you could be one.

Below are general safety tips provided by Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS® Past President Karen Trolan, who teaches the safety and self-defense course to SILVAR REALTORS® every year:

  1. Be aware that social media is a tool used by criminals to track their prey as agents leave a web trail on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. Don’t post where you will be, especially if you will be hosting an open house alone.
  2. Be Aware; notice anything out of place or unusual. Be suspect of everyone. Don’t let your guard down.
  3. Walk erect and proud to deter criminals. Don’t act like a victim; show strength.
  4. Always have your cell phone where it is easily accessible. Pre-program emergency numbers into speed dial, including 911.
  5. When confronted by an assailant, don’t engage! Stay calm and think! Use your sales skills to talk them out of it and let you go.
  6. Use the Military 5-point Contingency Plan. Let people know: – WHERE you are going. – WHO you will be meeting. – WHEN you will be back. – WHAT to do if you don’t return. – The ACTION to take if they cannot contact you.
  7. Always meet a client for the first time in the office or a public place.
  8. Leave your property tour itinerary with the office or colleague/family, with the addresses of the properties you plan to show.
  9. When visiting a property with a client you don’t know, take separate cars. If they make you feel uneasy, bring along a buddy.
  10. When showing a home, do not venture into confined or closed-in areas where you might get trapped, like basements, bathrooms, or walk-in closets. Know where the exits are. Always position yourself between your clients and a safe exit.
  11. At the home, look around the room for items that you could use as a weapon, in case of emergency. Be aware that an assailant will try to take the weapon away from you.
  12. If you are in a bad situation and can’t call for help, press call (preset) and leave the line open so the person on the other line can hear and get help for you. You can also get a “panic alert” or security alarm system for your phone.
  13. Trust your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, escape the situation immediately.
  14. When confronted by an assailant, the best thing you can do is scream as loud as you can and run!!! Get away from the situation.

When you’re in a confrontation, you only have a few seconds and a few moves to try. Before an attacker has gained control of you, you must do everything you can to inflict injury so you can get away. Be smart by being aware and prepared!

 

Advertisement