I continually have people ask me why are we seeing an increase in victims in our society? I think it goes back to the fact that unless you have served in military, law-enforcement, or some type of security related field, no one has talked to you about your personal safety and security since 6th grade. Think about it.

When you outgrew talking dogs, puppets, coloring books and jingles, basically the message became (in a de facto sense), “you’re safe now” or “you’re on your own now”. There really are no such formal programs in junior high, senior high, college, or the professional world teaching people how to safely navigate their surroundings and their society.

Let’s review some of those lessons, shall we?

“Don’t talk to strangers!” Really? Ever?! So we’re encouraging a generation to be anti-social basically. You cannot function in society unless you “talk to strangers”. And by the way, mom and dad, your kids see YOU talk to strangers all the time, so how is that leading by example? And I think by now most of us know, “strangers” are the LEAST of your worries when it comes to your child or teen’s safety. Usually such threat comes from someone you (and they) know all-too-well.

“Don’t get into a car with a stranger!” So how does that play out today not only with taxis, but Uber and Lyft drivers? Also, what if there is some type of minor or major emergency where you are in need of assistance and/or transportation, thus at the mercy of a Good Samaritan? What then?!

“Don’t take candy from strangers!” First, if we could just get POLITICIANS to obey this one, we would make major headway in this country! But what about when you’re offered a FREE “whatever” for just a few minutes of your time for a survey, or a phishing/phone scam makes some great offer if you will just give some basic (but highly personal) information? Why would you cooperate? Oh right, that “gift” they are offering in exchange for your cooperation. Are you getting my point?

So the last time most of us had any type of discussion regarding our personal safety and security, the above three common phrases were the strategies offered. So how do you think we’re doing as adults so far with these?

Education is key, but that education must be ongoing. Just as many professionals today must earn “continuing education” credits to maintain their professional license, we need to take somewhat a same approach, ever expanding our knowledge and strategy base as it pertains to the one thing that keeps us thriving on the planet — our personal safety.

It’s been a long time since 6th grade. When was your last “lesson” in this arena? At TroubleSpotters.com, we can help boost that learning curve.

Jeff McKissack, Founder
TroubleSpotters.com

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