Recent headlines in a Midwest town read: “A 10-year-old girl was sexually assaulted in the bathroom at the Outlet Mall Center early Saturday evening, police say.”

This incident draws attention to the recent attack of an unaccompanied minor who did nothing to provoke her perpetrator—she merely was heading to the restroom.  Unfortunately, her pathway led her along a desolate hallway at an Outlet Mall, where business was adversely impacted by these economic times, forcing tenants to close their doors.  For the property owners, the reduction in revenue forced down-staffing and mall security suffered as a consequence—a hard lesson that will undoubtedly haunt this innocent fifth grader.  An even sadder burden is the guilt that the child’s guardian must now bear.

While the child was allowed to proceed to the restroom, the mother remained within the relative security of the family vehicle. After a time when the girl did not return, a younger sibling went in alone after her elementary-aged sister and came face to face with the perpetrator as he exited the hallway (after the crime had been committed). Sensing that something was amiss, the sibling quickly returned to her mother. It was then that the mother left the comfort of her car to check on her young daughter. Sadly she came upon her traumatized child whom had just been sexually assaulted.

In hindsight it is clear that this crime was wholly preventable. Although the child was violated in the worst way imaginable, she fortunately escaped with her life and given the proper help will recover. Events such as these present us with some hard lessons learned:

• Never permit a child to enter a public restroom alone – at any age, at any time.
• If something appears remiss, do not send a younger child in to investigate.
• Complacency is to Parenting as oil is to water.

If you’re like most with a pulse, news stories such as the one above leaves a pit in your stomach.  Unfortunately crimes such as this happen on a far too frequent basis across the country.

It is extremely important to adopt the mindset of maintaining a constant vigil for threats and personal security hazards that exist in the world we live.  When children are in our care, that level of vigilance must be elevated to an even higher state.  We encourage you to seek out advice on how to recognize these security pitfalls and provide for your personal safety and security—if not through DCI, then through other sources.  The important point is not to let another hour pass before taking the first real step toward personal protection.

At DCI, we firmly believe no one ever deserves to be a victim—this holds especially true of children.  We also understand that as parents we have an obligation to stand together and to do absolutely everything within our power to provide for their safety and security.

Awareness of risk factors and the necessity of taking extra precautions can go a long way toward early detection and prevention of abductions and assaults.   As Benjamin Franklin said, “It’s easier to prevent bad habits than to break them.”

Public restroom safety is a topic that Defensive Countermeasures Institute addresses on a regular basis.  It’s an often overlooked, yet vital issue.  It is a message that needs to be shared with parents of children of all ages; and reiterated frequently.

While this family is suffering enough and no doubt the little girl will have life long scars from the incident, do you think the mother should be charged with child endangerment?  Why or why not?

As we take stock in our personal lives and examine how each of us was affected by the loss of so many innocent souls, let us remind ourselves not to fall victim to the hands of complacency.
Vigilance remains more important today than it did the hour the twin towers fell. News from around the world serves as a reminder that our enemies have been weakened, but not yet defeated.

In the days following 9-11, Former President George W. Bush addressed the nation before a session of the U.S. Congress. His speech renewed our spirit-describing the difficult road ahead. His words that evening were heard around the world. And to our enemies he spoke directly of American courage and fortitude, promising, “We will not falter, and we will not fail.”

As you go about your day, remind fellow Americans and honored guests that they must not forget the present danger that continues to fester in the hearts of those that wish us harm.  Reach out today and each day ahead to touch the life of someone close to you, whether family or friend.  The world we share is our common bond.

John F. Kennedy once said, I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.

DCI wishes to extend profound gratitude and support to the untold numbers of men and women around the world that serve as our nation’s vanguard.  Stay safe!

If you are one on the many millions of consumers who took advantage of the government’s recent “Cash for Clunkers” program you are among the family of new car owners. It’s always exciting as you become familiar with the features of a new vehicle. Investing time now to read the fine print could save your life later.

Does Anyone Really Read the Owner’s Manual?

Your new car Owner’s Manual is most likely located in the glove or console compartment.  I understand that manuals aren’t the most exciting topic; but before you stop reading, hang with me a few moments – this is important as it relates to your personal safety.

While parked, where you can retain 360-degree observation around your vehicle, start reading it cover to cover. It is important that you read this text before you actually need it. At the time of trouble is not the time to locate and read the fine print. By reading the manual in proximity to your vehicle you are able to look up from the text to mentally and physically reinforce what you’ve just read by visually examining the component or feature. This is important as you become familiar with key safety features of your new car.

Trunk Show

If your vehicle is equipped with a trunk, it is vital to understand how to get yourself out if locked inside. Most manufacturers now install escape latches inside the trunk compartments, but if you don’t read the manual you may not know it is there and how to use it.  In addition, there may also be an internal latch that releases the rear seat back allowing your escape through the passenger compartment.

Child Safety Locks

Child safety locks on rear passenger doors are another security feature that must be utilized properly.  Young children are curious creatures and a door handle is an inviting puzzle.  Learn to engage the safety lock features to avoid serious mishaps. On the other hand, if children are not routine passengers in the rear seat, then these devices should be disengaged to allow an unimpeded egress if the situation warrants.  You can find more information on these important security concerns here.

Your chances of avoiding or escaping abduction involves taking preventive steps that enhance personal safety practices. Reading the owner’s manual of all vehicles you operate is a step in the right direction. Stay Safe …and enjoy that new car smell.

Whether it’s going to be a weekend getaway or a leisurely hour pacing around the neighborhood, taking steps to ensure personal security must be an integral part of the planning process.  With this in mind, there are a few points that deserve consideration before venturing out.

Take Only What You Need for the Outing

Strollers have been around for decades and will most likely remain so. Just remember, don’t think of them as wagons that you can load up with just about anything.  Case in point, I recently conducted a safety inspection of one mom’s stroller and found a pipe wrench and a roll of duct tape.  Trying desperately to keep my imagination in check I asked the obvious question, “Why do you have these in your child’s stroller?”  The woman was as surprised as I and stated she had no idea they were there and suggested that her husband was the culprit.  OK, maybe her husband was doing some repairs around the house and needed a second pair of hands to lug his tools from A to B., but this does illustrate the occasional need to clean out unnecessary items…who among us hasn’t found a day’s old, half-eaten sandwich in the folds of baby’s chariot?

Sling, Snugli or Backpack?

On the subject of needing a second pair of hands, many parents choose an infant carrier to move about outdoors.  While the concept of wearing your baby has become quite common in recent years, the practice is one that is centuries old.  Mothers around the globe have been swaddling baby close to their bodies for generations.  In our western society, design and fashion have advanced this method to new levels of popularity.  Following the manufacture’s recommendation for use is always a good idea, but there are a few personal security points that manufacturer’s don’t address in their literature.

As a consumer, you’ll have a choice of three designs.  These are: Forward or Front Carry, Rear or Back Carry, and those that offer both.  Seems simple enough; just decide which is most comfortable for you and baby, right?  Read on.

Forward carry carriers have the advantage of keeping the baby within arms length and in the front where they may be constantly observed.  This is especially important with newborns and older infants. The disadvantage comes when having to defend oneself from a close proximity threat.  As you face your attacker you inadvertently put baby between you and the threat. This is not the posture you want to place yourself in when defending against physical assault. Remember, your child’s safety is your first concern.  In this instance, increasing distance from the threat is your immediate defense.  You do so by drawing him or her close to your body for protection and using your feet for what they are intended. Standing to confront you attacker should be your last course of action.

Rear carriers—worn in the manner of a backpack—offer the advantage of remaining hands-free.  For the unarmed defender, this is an important posture to maintain and is essential to remaining alert to physical threats.  You will be much better prepared to counter if attacked.  The disadvantage of the rear carrier is that your child falls outside of your line of sight; even peripheral vision is strained.  The second disadvantage occurs if an attack materializes. During the course of fending off your attacker, there will be a natural tendency to avoid being struck.  This may involve ducking, pivoting, backing and a host of other counter-movements.  These actions can be harmful to a young child while strapped on your back.  Imagine pivoting to counter a blow while in close proximity to a tree or lamp post and you can see how a tragic accident can occur.

If you must defend yourself, bring one hand up over the shoulder strap. Reach across you body and cinch the opposite strap in your hand.  When done correctly [using your left hand] your forearm will be pressed against the outside of the left-strap and the right strap will be clutched tightly in your left hand.  This draws the backpack close and snug to your body.  Your free hand [right] is available to counter blows and strike back at your attacker if necessary.

Once your child reaches the ripe old age of 6 months or begins to tip the scale at 45 lbs (Don’t worry, your lower back will remind your when this occurs), it will be time to roll-out the stroller…but please, forego toting your husband’s tool box to your favorite afternoon getaway.

Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of the equipment you use around your child can pay big dividends in terms of personal safety…yours and theirs.  Stay Safe!

Summer is in full swing and kids both young and young at heart love amusement parks.  One doesn’t need to drive too far to find one of many scattered across the country.

Before you go, keep in mind these three important tips to ensure your personal safety.

1.    Use lockers to store valuables or keep your necessities with you at all times. Today’s amusement parks now have some fantastic water rides.  Nothing says cool off better than a trip up the Lazy River or down the Adventure Falls.  Signage warns, “You will get soaked”.   Most parks how have barrels or shelving where you can place your belongings before boarding the water ride.  Anyone with a backpack, cell phone or wallet certainly would not want to have those items drenched; therefore they set their items in a staging area to ensure they stay dry.  However signage also warns, ‘Not responsible for lost or stolen items’.  The staging location is not manned or monitored.  Anyone could walk over to the shelves and grab any backpack or tote bag that looked interesting.  Unknowing ride passengers have just made their wallet, cell phone, keys and personal information available to a complete stranger.  Next time, opt for a zip lock bag to store your valuables, place them inside a backpack and take everything with you on the water ride.  So what if your tote gets wet; your personal information will remain secure at your side.

2.   Have a plan should you become separated from your family.  Decide at the onset where you will meet if you suddenly turn around and find a family member missing.  If after a very brief time of not reuniting at the predestinated spot, contact park security.  Time is not on your side should you become separated in such a large park with so many people.

3.    Keep young children with you at all times. This should go without saying. Yet on a recent trip to an amusement park I witnessed a potentially horrific situation.  An older gentleman, presumably Grandpa, was pushing a stroller with a small tot inside.  Walking just ahead were two young ladies and two other children approximately four & six years old, presumably the gentlemen’s daughters and possibly mothers to the children.  The ladies and young kids were enjoying a day at the park while Grandpa was there to get some fresh air and watch the stroller bound toddler. On more than one occasion, I watched Grandpa leave the toddler unattended in the stroller and walk away 75 feet or more so that he could photograph the elementary aged grandchildren.  This poor toddler was strapped in the stroller sleeping with not a soul watching her. Grandpa was oblivious and clearly not watching the stroller while he waved and snapped photos of the other children enjoying the Frog Hopper ride. In a blink of an eye someone would have snatched the stroller and been concealed among all the other park goers that day.

The summer is quickly dwindling away.  Make all your memories positive ones. Pack your sunscreen, have fun, enjoy and BE SAFE!

Pre-Pay plans offer a growing attractiveness to young adults; with a strong following among young adults attending college since there is comfort found with tight control on student spending. Additional minutes are added easily by purchasing a ‘chit’ of PIN number usually at $20, $30 and 50 dollar increments, which the user then keys into their phone unit.

Until recently, users purchased plastic cards from retail stores. Now minutes can also be purchased at the register with the PIN provided as a paper receipt.  This practice is much more environmentally friendly but apparently not enough for some.  Perhaps well intentioned, one nationally recognized electronics retailer now has a system in place that eliminates the plastic card and the paper receipt.  Good idea you think?  On the surface yes, but the devil is in the detail.

In order to provide the uber-conservation friendly service, this well know retailer requires you provide the number of the cell phone to which minutes are being added.  Your cell phone number is then keyed into the retailer’s customer database and only then can additional minutes be added to your phone.  Can you hear the security alarm bells ringing?  When was it decided that in order to make cash purchases you have to disclose what should be regarded as personal information?

Closely protecting personal information is imperative to sound personal protection and security practices. If you are a student, you have enough to concern yourself with. Don’t be lulled into believing that you are required to disclose personal information to anyone for any cause; especially information that is collected for reasons that are not entirely clear.  The idea that your personal phone number will be collected and placed into a non-governmental database should spark you to politely gather your belongings and headed straight for the nearest exit.

Pre-pay phone plans offer benefit to many who elect to use them and can add to our safety and peace of mind.  Just remember to use them wisely, as with any other phone, and guard your personal information and identity like a hawk.  And if you wish to be environmentally responsible, paper receipts will do just fine, provided of course, they are printed from recycled products.  Stay Safe!

The arrival of a healthy newborn is a blessing recognized the world over.  Across the globe the birth of a child ushers in all manner of celebration from very festive events to simple respite where mother, father and child bond during a modest period of seclusion.

Soon thereafter, parents elect to share their joy with extended family and friends, usually sending photographs by the most expedient means—the internet.

Given the undeniable ease and affordability that this manner of sharing brings to our finger tips, it is understandable how this manner of sending photos to acquaintances has become so popularized. However, there are some extremely important facts that must be reviewed before transmitting photographs of children or posting them on social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter (via Twitpic), MySpace and others.

Consider the origin of the photograph.  Parents often choose professional studio sessions for baby’s first photos.  These usually produce quality images of junior’s first smiles or punkin embracing her favorite cuddle toy.  It is important that backdrops are void of any identifying details.  There should be no information within the actual frame that can be used to trace and locate the subject(s) of the sitting.

If a professional photographer is used it is important to understand contractual agreements and ensure that your privacy concerns will be met.  In most instances, you purchase prints only from a studio while the image itself is owned by the photographer or her firm.  You’ll be justly thrilled to hear just how cute your child is but can be equally mortified to discover that your child’s image was sold to a marketing campaign without your prior knowledge or authorization. Read the fine print and avoid misunderstandings and irrevocable activity that may expose your child to security threat.

In order to exercise greater control over images of your child, consider taking those first photos yourself in a private setting.  Start with an easy to use digital camera. Your choice does not need to be expensive or loaded with features, but unless you will be using computer software that permits image manipulation, then your camera should be equipped with internal settings that allow control of image size.  Generally, photographs intended for sharing over the internet should be small.  This not only aids in speeding up the online transmission process, it also prevents anyone from capturing the photo and enlarging it without significant distortion.

Photo size is essential for the following reasons.

1. Without getting overly technical, it is important to understand that an increase in pixel size translates to increased image clarity.  The clearer an image, the more it can be enlarged to produce detail that is otherwise non-discernable.   When put into the context of eliminating features that can lead to the identity of the infant(s) in a photograph—birthmarks as one example—the importance of preventing this occurrence becomes apparent.  Remember; always think in terms of your child’s safety first!

2.  Conversely, photographs intended for identification purposes only should be taken in a larger format or pixel size.  Parents know best of their child’s unique features and should work to capture them digitally as the child passes through their formative years.  A good practice is to maintain several high-quality images of a child’s facial features, capturing images of joy and melancholy if possible.  Ensure to capture features such as hairline, eyes, ears and nose profiles. Also, do not overlook any distinguishing features such as skin moles, birthmarks or any unique characteristics. Photos such as those described here should only be made available to law enforcement or private investigators in the event of a child’s disappearance, or the identify of a child must be established.

The birth of a child is a true blessing and perhaps one of the fondest memories that parents shall forever cherish.  You can help ensure that the environment to which your newborn develops remains safe, by guarding your baby’s image with an understanding of the hidden dangers that accompany internet file sharing.

Defensive Countermeasures offers workshops for parents and childcare health providers that are geared toward developing a safe and secure environment for baby to grow.  Contact us for more information.  Stay Safe!

It is important to recognize that garage and yard sales attract attention.  Who among us has not made a U-turn or circled the block after seeing a makeshift sign offering direction to a ‘Huge Yard Sale’ or have highlighted a listing found in the local newspaper?

These forms of advertising are relatively inexpensive and usually serve their intended purpose, which is to attract buyers.  What they also accomplish is invite strangers to your home.  So, here are a few points to keep in mind when planning to make a few extra bucks this summer by selling items you no longer use or need.

1.  Consider partnering with neighbors and friends to host your sale during the same period of time. Multi-family sales attract larger numbers of seekers and enhance security for the sellers. You’ll have to select a large enough location that is suitable for everyone’s goods to be placed on display, but it also negates telegraphing to strangers who lives in a specific home.

This is especially important when infant ware and items used by children are sold.

Bassinettes, walkers, infant clothing and the like are a clear indicator that a child lives in the home. Likewise, consumer advocates have lobbied for years to mandate labeling on products intended for children, which identifies age appropriateness.  A child in the early stages of physical and mental development quickly outgrows educational computer software, board games as well as storybooks geared toward younger children.  Once no longer used, these items make their way to the display tables and bins—often times in the original manufacturer’s packaging.  This information offers further confirmation to a child abductor or sexual predator and reveals a child’s age and in some cases confirms gender.

2. If you elect to host the event at your home arrange to have someone sit with you. This is extremely important when a small child is present at the home—whether sleeping indoors or with you outside. Someone must be available to watch over things should you be drawn to respond to a child’s feeding or other parental chore. When choosing an assistant, ensure that the person is capable of rendering aid or assistance as needed—whether placing a phone call or alerting you to a problem.

3. All visitor activities should be conducted in full view of others.  Occasionally, large furniture or appliances are offered for sale.  These items should never be shown inside the home.  Instead, consider photographing the items to show perspective buyers, or make an appointment for viewing.  The latter allows you to ensure someone is present with you if you must invite a stranger into your home. Also, if you have a sitter with you, ensure that she is available for the duration of your sale.

4.  Do a little web-surfing.  Visit the sites hosted by State and Local police agencies; looking for registered sex offenders with residences within your zip code and surrounding communities. Often times, photos and brief criminal bio’s are available allowing you to become familiar with the physical characteristics of the convicted offender.  This information may also be printed and placed where it may be quickly retrieved if you become suspicious.  In this light, if you believe that a known sexual predator visited your home, after they depart and you have made the area safe, report the incident to your local law enforcement authorities immediately. Report only what you suspect to be true and accurate.

5.  Finally, think carefully about what items you will offer for sale.  Don’t fall into the trap of clearing out everything in your home and pushing it to the curb for every passerby to pick through.  If your have a young child in the home please be mindful of what information someone may determine about that child—review the points above carefully as a guide.  Also, consider consignment shops for items that are identified with infants or, better yet donate them to your local church or charity.  This is an excellent way to practice keeping your child safe and helping others during this time of economic challenge.

With proper forethought and planning you can have a safe and successful yard sale and practice personal security measures, as well.  Stay Safe!

We have all heard media stories in the past about how women are killed just for their babies. What precautions should a pregnant woman take to protect herself from some nut job that might be watching her so that they can snatch a baby?

The first point to keep in mind is that while these types of crimes define new depths that some are capable of descending to, they are extremely rare when one considers the annual birth rate in the United States.  That being said, these crimes do occur and therefore it is important to understand this threat and take important steps to avoid becoming a statistic.

To begin this discussion, let me point out that by the very intent of the crime the period that an expectant mother is most vulnerable is the third-trimester. Since the perpetrator intends to masquerade the child as her own, she is not likely to put her assault plan into motion since it is preferred that the birth mother carry the child close to full term. This is an important point to remember, as it becomes the focal period for heightened security awareness, a point that will be addressed below.

The second most crucial timeframe is post-partum up until the newborn adds 10-15 pounds to its birth weight.  The reason for this is because as the child develops it becomes extremely difficult for the abductor to present the child as her own, particularly among family, friends and neighbors.

Taking the first point into consideration, practically all pre-planned criminal activities rely upon two critical components if there is to be any chance of success, namely; surprise and predictability. Speed is also important but generally less vital than the previous components. Our goal then is to deny criminals the element of surprise and to adopt patterns that make us less time and place predictable.

We are able to defeat surprise by fine-tuning our suspicious nature and embracing the sensual stimuli that accompanies it.  Everyone one of us has an example of feeling the hair at the nape of our neck stand-up.  Chances are if you can recall the exact instance when it last occurred, you where confronted with a situation that was abnormal to your personal level of comfort, that which looks, feels, tastes or smell foul usually is.  This is an example of sensual stimuli and is naturally occurring biological feedback that serves as a defense mechanism, call it a sixth sense if you like, but recognize and embrace it for what it is and the role it plays in our personal safety and survival.  There are numerous mental exercises that can put you more in touch with your sensual stimuli, and some are quite entertaining. For example, our Director of Operations has perfected a mental calculation by which he is able to estimate the size of large groups of people by focusing on a small, select group.  His accuracy is within +- 3% of the actual number.  He can perform this as a demonstration of the power of situation awareness.

Let’s now look more closely at the value of reducing predictability.  Ninety-nine point nine percent of criminals do not want to be caught -period!  Many take painstaking steps to survey their intended target in an effort to expose vulnerabilities that given their limited capability are susceptible to exploitation.  What this really means is that the criminal needs to determine when and where they will strike, avoid becoming predicable and you stay steps ahead of anyone that targets you.  By making matters difficult, the criminal will move on to survey another potential victim.

We can outline more day-to-day practices for any reader interested. Contact us here.

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 aftershave or gun oil. The choice is yours. Stay Safe!