By L.E.A.F.F. (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)
L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale
One of the most important factors of being safe is being aware of your situation. This can be applied to the home, workplace and outside, whether one is at work or play. Be aware of what is going around you.
HOME: With spring arriving and the time change, it is essential to remember to do things like renew the batteries in your smoke detectors, replenish the supplies in your first aid kit and review a safety plan with your family. Do your children know where to go in case of a major emergency? Make sure as a family you discuss a meeting place in the event of a disaster and have a plan in place. It is also essential to make sure that your family is prepared and has enough food and water for three days to one week, at a minimum.
OUTSIDE: Be aware of your surroundings when you are outside. If you see drifters or people that look like they shouldn’t be there (such as a random person sitting in their car for a long period of time), call it in. It is better to be safe than sorry. Pay attention to your neighbors and your neighborhood by being vigilant and looking out for one another. Joining a Neighborhood Watch is a great way to learn more about your surroundings as well as learn even more ways to keep you and your family safe.
Children need to remember to wear helmets when riding their bikes, but most importantly, they need to look around and make sure that vehicles see them. Vehicles should be at a full stop before crossing in front of them. Don’t assume that because you are in the crosswalk, you are safe. Distracted drivers and children not paying attention have resulted in many collisions that could have been avoided had both people been aware of their surroundings.
Overall, situation awareness leads to less crime and a higher level of personal safety. The first step in avoiding disaster and becoming a statistic is making sure that your situation is safe. Be vigilant, pay attention and have a plan.
