Hi Everyone!

I’d like to take this opportunity to speak to you about personal safety. Let’s start by answering the question, ‘what is personal safety?’ Now, I’m sure if you looked in a dictionary, there are likely several definitions that could be used to describe what it means. First, I want to point out that personal safety is not self-defense. I think of self-defense as physical tactics that one might employ to defend themselves, if they were being attacked physically. An arm bar, a leg sweep, or strikes like punching and kicking. There is a proper way to employ these techniques, and, if properly used, they can be effective.

That being said, let’s get back to my original question: What is personal safety? I have created a definition that I think accurately answers this question. Personal safety is ‘the art of avoiding self-defense.’ To clarify what that means, it’s really quite simple- if we do our best to make good decisions in our day-to-day lives, we can effectively reduce the chances of becoming the victim of an attack. Another strong belief that I have is that to be prepared does not make us paranoid; instead, it helps us confidently avoid the need. Upon donning my patrol uniform and gear, I gain 27 pounds. Each piece of my duty gear has a purpose, and allows me to be prepared for whatever situation that I might face. Let’s discuss some simple ways for you and your loved ones to be prepared, and don’t worry, I won’t ask you to carry 27 pounds of gear like I do!

• The MOST powerful set of personal safety tools humans have is our senses. All too often, people choose to ignore that underlying, subconscious feeling that something is wrong. Don’t do that! If something feels amiss, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and trust your instincts.• Walk with purpose! When moving about in your daily life, pay attention to what is going on around you. Avoid distractions like talking on the phone or texting, updating your Facebook or Twitter feeds, and my personal favorite, stopping every 30 seconds to take a selfie. It’s best to have your head up, your eyes open, and your ears open, too (turn down that iPod).

• Don’t be afraid to react! For example, if you think you’re being followed, abruptly change direction. Also, don’t be afraid to look directly at the person who is putting you in fear, as this accomplishes two things: First, it sends a message that you will not be an ‘easy’ or ‘willing’ victim. Second, it allows you to get a good description of the person, should something happen. The idea here is to move confidently, and make yourself a hard target.

• Use the buddy system whenever possible. We’ve been hearing this throughout our entire lives, and that’s because it really is good advice. When I respond to any call that is potentially dangerous, I always request a backup, or ‘cover’ officer. The reason why is simple: more eyes, more ears, and another set of hands should something go wrong. As an added bonus, it creates a deterrent in the mind of the attacker.

• Let people know where you’re going, and when you’re expecting to return. I’ll use myself as an example once again; when dispatching myself on a service call, I always let the communications center know the call type, where I’m going, when I arrive, and when I leave. This gives other first responders the best chance of reaching me quickly should an emergent situation occur.

• Property is NEVER worth your safety! If someone demands your wallet or purse, you’re faced with an immediate choice: comply or resist. As a general rule, compliance is best to ensure your personal safety. For example, if someone is armed with a weapon and demands your purse, GIVE IT TO THEM! In fact, throw it at them, and flee. There shouldn’t be anything in a purse that isn’t replaceable, however the person carrying that purse is irreplaceable. Assume that someone is armed and dangerous, even if you don’t see a weapon. People who commit these types of crimes are often desperate, and MUST be considered dangerous. To that end, you do have the legal right to use force to protect yourself and others if you feel threatened.

• Make some noise! Noise draws attention, and bad guys don’t like attention. If you’re able to shout, do it. Another great way to make noise is with a personal alarm. They’re inexpensive, easy to carry, simple to deploy, and they are LOUD!

• Other tools. There are a myriad of other tools we can use to defend ourselves, such as pepper spray, stun guns, TASERS, edged weapons, and even firearms. If we are considering using any of these, we are now in ‘self-defense’ mode. These are all fine options, but make sure that you train and practice with whatever you select on a regular basis so you know that you’re capable of using it/them under stress. Also, I advise you to take the time to learn the laws in your state as they relate to self-defense and the use of force. During my career, I have seen people get arrested and receive criminal charges for using force in an unlawful manner (such as using a firearm to protect property).

• Do some drills, and practice for the ‘what if?’ Have you ever taken the time to ask yourself, ‘what would I do if this happened? How would I react? Am I prepared?’ It’s worth mentioning one more time that this does not equal paranoia. Being prepared includes knowing as much information in advance as possible!

These are just a few ideas that you can use to help yourself stay safe. On behalf of the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office and the Spokane Valley Police Department, I sincerely hope that you and your loved ones are enjoying the beautiful summer weather!

- Be Safe Everyone!

QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS ARTICLE CAN BE DIRECTED TO DEPUTY CHRIS JOHNSTON OF THE CRIME PREVENTION UNIT OF THE SPOKANE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE: CRJOHNSTON@SPOKANESHERIFF.ORG