Don't be a crime victim.

[Mr. Security]

Like most predators, lions usually target weak, ill, or isolated prey. Why? Because a kill is more likely and the risk of injury to the lion(s) is minimized. The same is true with human predators. In most cases, they are looking for an easy hit. What can one do to avoid becoming a victim?

- Be alert to your surroundings. Are you alone? Is it dark? What kind of area is it? Don't be afraid to cross the street or turn and walk the other way if you see or sense danger. Run if need be. Many criminals are too lazy to pursue when they can easily target someone else.

- When driving alone at night, always leave sufficient room between you and the car in front of you so that you are not trapped if someone approaches your vehicle on foot. If you are being carjacked, do not try to save your car. Give up the keys and, if you can, try to run away while screaming "fire." Even police officers that practice regularly at a gun range know that it can be difficult to hit a moving target. Better that then to allow the criminal to take you to crime scene number 2, i.e., an isolated area where you can be raped and/or shot execution style.

Also, check your mirrors frequently to ensure that you are not being followed home. If you discern that you are, drive to a public place and call 911. If someone "bumps" into your car in an isolated area, you may decide to turn on your hazards and slowly drive to a safer area before exiting your car and exchanging documentation. It is a good idea to avoid routines when driving and performing other functions. Vary your activities, the route, time, and so forth. Don't be predictable.

- If a stranger asks to use your phone at home, offer to make the call for them. Don't hand them your cordless phone because you can't dial out for help if they keep the phone on-line. Look out the window to see who is there before you open the door. If you are not comfortable, don't answer the door.

- Be careful if a stranger approaches you on the street with a question. They may be trying to distract you in hopes that you will let your guard down.

- When riding mass transit such as the subway, always stand. It's easier, psychologically and physically, to move away from potential danger. If you notice that the subway car that you're riding in is emptying out, consider moving to one that is occupied by more people. If you sense that you are in imminent danger, don't hesitate to get off the train and catch the next one. If you do get off the train, be alert to whether the platform is isolated or not. Otherwise, the perpetrator may just get off with you.

What else can you, as a Security/LE officer, add to the suggestions above?

[Bill Warnock]

Like most predators, lions usually target weak, ill, or isolated prey. Why? Because a kill is more likely and the risk of injury to the lion(s) is minimized. The same is true with human predators. In most cases, they are looking for an easy hit. What can one do to avoid becoming a victim?

- Be alert to your surroundings. Are you alone? Is it dark? What kind of area is it? Don't be afraid to cross the street or turn and walk the other way if you see or sense danger. Run if need be. Many criminals are too lazy to pursue when they can easily target someone else.

- When driving alone at night, always leave sufficient room between you and the car in front of you so that you are not trapped if someone approaches your vehicle on foot. If you are being carjacked, do not try to save your car. Give up the keys and, if you can, try to run away while screaming "fire." Even police officers that practice regularly at a gun range know that it can be difficult to hit a moving target. Better that then to allow the criminal to take you to crime scene number 2, i.e., an isolated area where you can be raped and/or shot execution style.

Also, check your mirrors frequently to ensure that you are not being followed home. If you discern that you are, drive to a public place and call 911. If someone "bumps" into your car in an isolated area, you may decide to turn on your hazards and slowly drive to a safer area before exiting your car and exchanging documentation. It is a good idea to avoid routines when driving and performing other functions. Vary your activities, the route, time, and so forth. Don't be predictable.

- If a stranger asks to use your phone at home, offer to make the call for them. Don't hand them your cordless phone because you can't dial out for help if they keep the phone on-line. Look out the window to see who is there before you open the door. If you are not comfortable, don't answer the door.

- Be careful if a stranger approaches you on the street with a question. They may be trying to distract you in hopes that you will let your guard down.

- When riding mass transit such as the subway, always stand. It's easier, psychologically and physically, to move away from potential danger. If you notice that the subway car that you're riding in is emptying out, consider moving to one that is occupied by more people. If you sense that you are imminent danger, don't hesitate to get off the train and catch the next one. If you do get off the train, be alert to whether the platform is isolated or not. Otherwise, the perpetrator may just get off with you.

What else can you, as a Security/LE officer, add to the suggestions above?
Will send some info from my guide for the benefit of our fellow professionals. I should have done it before.
Enjoy the day,
Bill

[ACP01]

May I add that with the low cost of cameras mounting one that has at least listening capability so you can see and hear who is at the door can help offset potential problems.

[Bill Warnock]

Keeping Safe: Tips from Prince William County Virginia Police Department

On the Street

Avoid carrying a purse if possible. If you must carry a purse, carry it close to your body so that a thief cannot simply run by and grab it.
Don?t leave a purse on a counter or in a shopping cart unattended.
Vary your routine ? don?t do the same thing at the same time every day.
Carry as little cash or as few credit cards as possible. Carry only mugging money, say a $10.00 or $20.00 bill.
Have your pay, social security, tax refund or retirement checks directly deposited into your bank account.
When you go to the bank, don?t flash your cash. If you must use an ATM, use one inside a grocery or drug store or police, fire or sheriff?s station. Take all transaction documents with you. Do not discard them in nearby trash bins. Thieves look in such bins just for that reason.
Carry a wallet in an inside pocket.
Avoid poorly lit streets, unpopulated areas, alleys and vacant lots or buildings.
If you are walking and a vehicle is following you, reverse directions or cross the street.
If someone acts suspiciously looks at you closely or follows you, head for bright lights and people and call the police.
Carry a whistle or other noise-making device. Use it to call attention to yourself if threatened.
Stay alert to your surroundings. Walk with a purpose, head up and looking around. If confronted, do not attempt to resist or fight, as you?re likely to get injured. Sit down before you?re knocked down. Do what you are told and do not provoke the thief. Try screaming, ?FIRE? if there is a likelihood you?ll be heard. Report any crime immediately for your safety. This will increase the chances of the responding officer in apprehending the criminal.

*"The most important personal safety tip, whether at work or any other location, is: Always look 180 degrees -- from shoulder to shoulder -- before releasing the door knob when exiting a building. Danger could be in front of you and safety behind you. If you close the door and it locks, you may be trapped on the dangerous side. By taking a moment to look around instead of making a beeline to your car, you get a feel for the safety of the parking lot or yard. If anything seems out of place, or you feel that something just is not right, go back inside the building. Remember, if a situation feels wrong, it usually is." (*Source: Vic H. Brimmer, Lieutenant, Sheriff's Office of County Safety and Security, San Bernardino, California, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 02-27-03)

*"Crowed stores and malls are a thief's best friend. To make pickpockets' job more difficult, if you have to carry your wallet in an unbuttoned jacket, coat or pants pocket, make sure it holds only what you can afford to lose. Keep large sums of money, credit cards and identification cards in your front pocket or any buttoned or zippered pocket. Some people even place a rubber band around their wallet because the rubber band creates friction and rubs against the fabric of your pocket, alerting you if someone attempts to take your wallet." (*Source: Bruce Mandelbilt, Retired Reserve Deputy Sheriff, Lake Buena Vista, Florida, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 11-25-03)

*Elevator Security: 1) Do not get on an elevator if you are uncomfortable with its occupants or they appear suspicious. 2) Get off the elevator before the doors close if you are uncomfortable with a rider getting on with you. 3) Always step to the front of the elevator cab, stay close to the control panel floor buttons. 4) If you feel uncomfortable with your fellow riders, push the next available floor button to exit. 5) If someone approaches you in an unwanted or threatening manner, push the alarm button for security. 6) The Alarm Button will immediately open an intercom to Security 24 hours per day. 7) Security will answer intercom and ask if you need help or assistance. 8) The intercom will remain open for security to monitor inside the elevator cab. (*Source: Martin Cramer, CPP, ?Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 01-09-02.)

In Your Car

Always have your car keys in your hand as you approach your car. If someone rushes up, throw the keys in one direction and you run in the other.
Before entering, check the back seat and floor to be sure no one is hiding inside.
When driving, keep doors locked and windows up.
Don?t tempt thieves by leaving valuables in plain view inside the car. Lock them in the trunk. Purses left on the seat are especially enticing.
Never pick up hitchhikers.
Make sure you have plenty of gas and the car is in good condition.
Park in a close well-lighted area.
Always lock your car when you leave it.
Do not have your name and address on your keys. If you lose them, a criminal might use that information to find you.
If your car breaks down, raise the hood and stay inside, with the doors locked and windows up. If a stranger stops to help, ask him or her to call the police. Never accept a ride with a stranger. If at all possible, it is highly recommended that you carry a cellular telephone with you at all times for just such an emergency.
When parking your car at a public parking facility, leave your ignition key only with the attendant.

Filling a portable fuel container.

Never fill a portable fuel container while it inside a vehicle, in a vehicle?s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the inside of the fill opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the filling is complete. (Source: ?Fall 2003, Security Bulletin,? © American Petroleum Institute of America ®)

*Never leave your garage door opener on your visor when you valet your car locally or at a "park and fly" location when traveling. The vehicle registration in your glove compartment contains your address and the garage door opener provides easy access. Thieves and dishonest valets could get your home address from those documents. Alternatively, use a P.O. box number instead of your address on those documents. (*Source: Dr. "Isabel" Perry, of thesafety@doctor.com, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 04-24-02)

*People are aware that they could be a victim of a vehicle "smash-n-grab," smash a window and grab what is plain view e.g., on the seat, on the floor or on coat hanger). In the event of such an attack the items that are stored in the relative safety of the trunk are also vulnerable if there is an electronic or mechanical trunk release button or lever in the passenger compartment or in an unlocked glove box. To keep the contents of your trunk safe, disable the trunk release lever completely or have an electronic release button rewired to work only when the ignition key is in the ?run? position. (*Source: Harry Noel, Security Manager, PaeTec Communications, Inc. © ?Security Tip of the Week,? ® Security Products E-News, 03-07-02.)

*"Many perpetrators attack their victims by coming up behind the potential victim while he or she is putting items in the trunk of their car, such as groceries and gifts. To help prevent this, buy a mirror approximately the size of your rearview mirror and secure it to the inside of the hood of your trunk. When you lift the hood to your trunk, you'll have the mirror in front of your face so you will be able to see potential attackers coming up behind you before it's too late." (*Source: Kristina R. Bird, field administrative specialist, El Paso Power Operations, Orlando Cogen, Orlando, Florida, ? Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 12-18-02)

*"We always tell our children never to talk to strangers. However, if they become lost or missing, the child must talk to a stranger. So, the best thing to do is show them which 'strangers' they can speak to. There are 2.4 police officers per 1,000 people. Therefore, your child will unlikely be able to locate a police officer. There are, however, plenty of UPS, FedEX, town and state workers, mothers with other children, mail carriers, cable repair people, oil service repair trucks, tow truck operators and of course construction workers around. Point these 'safe' people out to your

[Bill Warnock]

children." (Source: Donna Kirby-Reynolds, personal safety specialist and retired police lieutenant, Westerly, RI, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 10-15-03)

*"Most children are lost at the mall or some other type of public place. I always recommend that parents have their children go to a cashier. Usually the cash handling areas are closely observed, and the person behind the counter is a responsible employee. Have children go to a well-populated, public place to get help. Also, instruct children not to get into a car with anyone they don't know, and to keep strangers at arm's length. They should ask the person they approach to contact their parents or guardian and wait in the public place for their parents to pick them up.? (*Source: Bob McDonald, Lieutenant, Cleveland Clinic Police Department, Cleveland, OH, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 01-22-03)

If grabbed by a stranger, children should be instructed to scream, kick, scratch and bite and use all means to breakaway from that person?s grasp and run away as fast as possible screaming as they run. They should run to the closest occupied house or business and tell the first person they see that a stranger tried to take them away.

In Your Home

?Come steal our stuff,? should not be advertised by the way your home and yard is maintained plus the fact the flashing multicolor neon signs are tawdry. The by-word should be: A place for everything and everything in its place. Flora should be neatly trimmed and well away from windows and entrances in accordance with principles of effective crime prevention. Never ever make it easy for the bad guy! Make him or her work and work hard to successfully steal or destroy your property. That which follows will help you attain that end.

?Criminologists have estimated that burglars can be in and out of your home under fine minutes,? says Jean O?Neil, director of research and evaluation at the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC). So doors and windows should be locked. All windows should have ventilation security tabs installed on them to prevent the window from fully opening.

Neal Rawls, author of the book, ?Be Alert, Be Aware, Have A Plan: The Compete Guide to Protecting Yourself, Your Home, Your Family.? Create some illusions to thwart thieves. Pretend you are home. Leave your television or radio on. If you live alone, make it look as though you have a full house. Put two initials or names on the mailbox. On the answering machine leave the message, ?We are not in right now: instead of ?I?m not in right now.? For a woman living alone, consider having a man?s voice on the answering machine. In addition, Rawls suggests that women go to thrift shops and purchase the biggest pair of work shoes they can find, and then set them outside their front door. ?If someone comes up, they?ll think that a man is sitting inside,? he says. Your imaginary companion doesn?t need to be another person. ?Some people put a ?Beware of Dog? sign in their front yard, a long dog chain and large food and water bowls by the front door,? Rawls says. ?Someone coming inside won?t want to know where that dog is. An easy to see decal picturing a German shepherd with the words ?We Love Our Shepherd? can?t hurt either.?

*"While few burglaries actually take place when residents are home, most people still have the fear of someone breaking in during the middle of the night. In such cases, police advise victims to dial 911. If the home is equipped with a security system, users are advised to hit the panic button, which usually is good advice, but what happens when the phone line is dead??

"Most homes have a service panel on the exterior through which a telephone company connects their service that features a panel or box usually accessible to anyone with a screwdriver. Loosen a couple of screws, remove a couple of wires and phone service is disconnected. While the alarm central station might get a tamper signal, there's no way for them to call the user in order to verify what is happening. Also, remember, most police agencies only respond to alarms when there has been secondary verification of an incident.

"Regardless of whether you have a security system, we recommend that you have a cell phone readily available in the bedroom near you at night, rather than keeping it in another room for overnight charging." (*Source: Bill Tullock, Crime Prevention Specialist, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 4-23-03)

*"With regards to the service panel on the exterior through which a telephone company connects their service that features a panel or box usually accessible to anyone with a screwdriver,' additional security can be gained by having the local telephone service provider relocate the service panel to the interior of any home, with or without an alarm system. Additionally, any low, accessible phone wiring on the outside of the home should be raised high above the ground and either enter the home at the top of the building or be run inside conduit down the outside and directly into the service panel inside the home. This additional protection would make the home's phone wiring nearly inaccessible to the common smash-and-grab thief, who commits most of the average residential break-ins. Also, for the average home with an alarm system, this is less expensive overall than paying additional monthly charges for a backup communications service." (*Source: Paul Hoffman, Applications Engineer, Security Services and Technologies Inc., Eatontown, NJ, ?Security Tip of The Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 04-30-03)

When new household furnishings, wares, appliances, yard equipment or the like are purchased, do not put shipping containers at the curb for trash pickup. This indicates to would-be thieves you have something new, perhaps worth stealing. Instead, break down these containers and place them in trash receptacles for collection. Think holidays, birthdays and anniversaries.

Contact the police or sheriff?s department and arrange to have an officer or deputy from the Crime Resistance Section come to your home and perform a home security survey. There is no charge for this service.

Lock doors and windows. Locks on doors and windows are effective only if you use them. Never leave home with windows open and have a ready plan for quick exit in case of emergency.

For security information on locking devices see Section J. Interior - Type of Structure, above.

Protect glass panels in doors and windows with polycarbonate sheets, shatter resistant film or burglar bars with emergency release devices.

Know who is at the door before opening it. Install wide-angle viewers in all exterior doors.

Good visibility discourages crime. The rear, sides and front areas of your home should be well lighted. A timer or photoelectric cell can automatically turn exterior lights on at dusk and off at dawn. Consideration should be given to the installation of motion sensor lighting fixtures.

Don?t give a burglar a place to hide. Trim bushes and trees near the house. Remove large limbs that could aid a burglar in gaining access to windows or roofs.

Always keep garage doors closed so no one can tell when you?re away.
Ask service people for identification before you open the door.

Never open the door to strangers or let them know you?re away.

If you live alone, don?t advertise it. Don?t tell someone on the telephone that you?re alone. Use only your first initials and last name on telephone listings. Use only the house number on your mailbox.

If a stranger asks to use your phone in an emergency, offer to make the call yourself. Let them wait outside.

Have your keys ready when you arrive home. Look for anyone lurking around, and if there is, go to a neighbor or a business and call the police.

[Bill Warnock]

If you live in an apartment or condominium, avoid being in the laundry room or garage by yourself, especially at night.

If you go away, arrange to have your home look lived-in. Ask neighbors or a friend to pick up mail and newspapers, mow the grass, put out trash or park a vehicle in your driveway.

Call the police to report any suspicious person or activity in your neighborhood. Be alert to protect your neighbors as well as yourself.

Don?t hide a key outside your house. Give a spare to a trusted friend or neighbor instead.

*Whenever you are going to be away from home, consider leaving a $10 or $20 bill on a prominent table in the foyer. Look for it immediately on returning and if it was not in view do not enter, but go to a neighbor and call 911. For all you know, "visitors" might still be in your home. (*Source: Tom Powell, Department Manager, Loss Prevention, Rochester Gas and Electric Corporation, for his "Safety in the Streets and at Home" lecture.

*"When going on vacation, if at all possible, load up your vehicle while it is in your garage with the overhead door closed. This way fewer people are likely to know you are leaving. If this is not possible, try to load your vehicle as inconspicuously as possible. Tell a trusted neighbor you will be gone, and ask them to report suspicious activity to local law enforcement." (*Source: Meaghan O'Neill, Crime Prevention Specialist, Vacaville Police Department, Vacaville, California, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 06-04-03)

Always lock the door leading from your home to the garage. When you are going to be gone from your home for an extended period, turn off or unplug your garage door opener. In the event of a malfunction, such as a power surge or outage, your garage door could open, leaving your home vulnerable to intruders. Thieves have access to multi-code devices that mimic the remote door opener. To preclude thieves from stripping the gears on the openers' control rail, place locked padlocks in an opening in the guide rails on either side of the door near one of the rollers. Use of the garage door's regular lock is discouraged because the plug of such a lock can easily be forced. Openers are equipped with an emergency release cord. As a security precaution, remove the cord and replace it with a hooked metal rod that can be hung on a wall nail when not in use. A flashlight should be kept handy for use in a darkened garage.

*Checklist: Securing garage doors

A garage door can be the most commonly used point of entry for most homes. The garage door opener system must be properly adjusted and maintained in order to function safely and provide security to its residents. Consider these security tips for automated garage doors.

Visually inspect garage door. Look at the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and other door hardware for signs of wear. If you suspect problems, have a qualified person make repairs.

Avoid a moving garage door, and keep hands and fingers clear of the garage door. Do not stand, walk or run under a moving door. Hands and fingers must be kept clear from section joints, hinges, track, springs and other door parts.

Do not let children play with garage door transmitters or remote controls. Garage door operators are not toys. Keep children out of the door's reach. Mount pushbutton wall controls high enough to be out of the reach of children.

Only operate the garage door if you can see it. Keep the door in sight until it closes completely.

Monthly, test the reversing mechanism of garage door. If an object obstructs the door as it is closing, the door should reverse. Make sure the garage door opener is equipped with such reversing features. If the door does not reverse, have it repaired or replaced by a qualified repair technician.

Monthly, test the garage door balance. With the door in the closed position and the operator disconnected, lift the door manually. It should lift smoothly, with little resistance and should remain open. If the garage door is out of balance, have the door system adjusted by a qualified technician.

Test the force setting on the garage door. Hold up the bottom of the door as it closes. If the door does not easily reverse, the force with which the door lowers is excessive and needs adjustment. (*Source: ?News Update,? © Security Products E-News ®, 11-11-03)

*?We always recommend installing a deadbolt lock on a closet door, usually in the master bedroom of the residence. The lock should be keyed separately from other locks in the house. When having a party (you don't always know who your guests will bring) or when having service people in the house, move your jewelry boxes, pocketbooks, wallet or other valuables to the closet and lock the door with the deadbolt. This will protect your possessions from identity thieves or other opportunists who might otherwise feel no compunction about stealing from you and your family. Recent statistics have shown that identity theft is often perpetrated by close friends and family members who have easy access to credit cards and driver's licenses." (*Source: Jeff Prusan, Corporate Defense Strategies Inc., Woodcliff Lake, N.J., ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 12-11-02)

[Bill Warnock]

AUTO THEFT

Don't Make It Easy for a Thief To Steal Your Wheels

One vehicle is stolen every 20 seconds in the United States. Stolen cars, vans, trucks, and motorcycles cost victims time and money ? and increase everyone's insurance premiums. They're also often used to commit other crimes. Don't become a victim of this serious crime.

The Basic Prevention Policy

Never leave your keys in the car or ignition.

Always lock your car, even if it's in front of your home.

Copy your tag and vehicle identification numbers (VIN) on a card and keep them with your driver's license. Keep the registration with you, not in the car.

Keep the keys to your home and car separate.

Keep your car in good running condition. Make sure there's enough gas to get there and back.

Avoid parking in isolated areas with little foot or auto traffic. Be especially alert in unstaffed lots and enclosed parking garages.

If you think someone is following you, drive to the nearest police or fire station, open service station, or other open business to get help.

Don't pick up hitchhikers. Don't hitchhike yourself.

If you often drive at night, or alone, consider a CB radio or cellular phone preprogrammed to 911 or other emergency number to make it easier to summon help in a emergency. (Source: AutoLifeMinders.com)

*If your vehicle is broken into or stolen, inform the police immediately. Stolen vehicles are often used in the commission of another crime. Quick action by you may not only aid in the recovery of your vehicle, and prevent its use for illegal purposes. Also, when buying a car from anyone except an authorized dealer, check the license number and the vehicle identification with the police department for verification before you part with your money. (*Source: City of Peoria, Ariz., Police Department, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 10-02-02)



CARJACKING

Carjacking - stealing a car by force - has captured headlines across the country. Statistically your chances of being a carjacking victim are very slim, and prevention actions can reduce the risk even more. Why is Carjacking a Problem?

No one knows for certain, but some explanations include: It's a crime of opportunity - a thief searching for the most vulnerable prey. Sometimes it's the first step in another crime. For some young people, carjacking may be a rite of passage, a status symbol, or just a thrill. Cars, especially luxury ones, provide quick cash for drug users and other criminals. Sophisticated alarms and improved locking devices make it harder for thieves to steal unoccupied cars.

It's easy to buy, steal, or barter for guns in this country. And a pointed gun makes a powerful threat. More teens and adults commit crimes of violence than ever before. Intense media interest may have created "copycat" carjackers.

Anywhere, Anyone

Federal and state law defines in criminal codes don't define "carjacking." In some jurisdictions It's reported as either auto theft or armed robbery for a mirad of qurky reasons. This means that no solid statistics exist on time, place, and victims. A carjacking can occur anytime; a sizable number take place during the late night hours. Carjacking isn't just a problem in large cities - it happens in suburbs, small towns, and rural areas. Carjackers look for opportunity. They don't choose victims by sex, race, or age. Golden opportunities: what do carjackers look for? Intersections controlled by stop lights or signs. Garages and parking lots for mass transit, shopping malls, and grocery stores. Self-serve gas stations and car washes. ATMs (automated teller machines). Residential driveways and streets as people get into and out of cars. Highway exit and entry ramps, or anyplace else that drivers slow down or stop.

Bump and Rob

It works like this. A car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, rear-ends or "bumps" you in traffic. You quickly get out to check the damage and exchange information. Either the driver or one of the passengers jumps in your car and drives off. If you're bumped by another car, look around before you get out. Make sure there are other cars around, check out the car that's rear-ended you and who's in it. If the situation makes you uneasy, memorize or jot down the car's tag number and description; signal the other car to follow you. Drive to the nearest police station or to a busy, well-lighted area. If you do get out of the car, take your keys (and purse or wallet if you have one) with you and stay alert.

Reduce Your Risk

Getting In. Walk with purpose and stay alert. Approach your car with the key in hand. Look around and inside the car before getting in. Be wary of people asking for directions or handing out fliers. Trust your instincts - if something makes you feel uneasy, get into the car quickly, lock the doors, and drive away.

On the Road

Keep your doors locked and windows rolled up (at least partway, if it's hot and you don't have air conditioning), no matter how short the distance or how safe the neighborhood. When you're coming to a stop, leave enough room to maneuver around other cars, especially if you sense trouble and need to get away. Drive in the center lane to make it harder for would-be carjackers to approach the car. Avoid driving alone. Go with someone whenever possible, especially at night. Don't stop to assist a stranger whose car is broken down. Help instead by driving to the

[Bill Warnock]

nearest phone and calling police to help.

Getting Out

Park in well-lighted areas, near sidewalks or walkways. Avoid parking near dumpsters, woods, large vans or trucks, or anything else that limits your visibility. Never leave valuables in plain view, even if the car is locked. Put them in the trunk or out of sight. Try to park in a garage with an attendant. Leave only the ignition key, with no identification. Even if you're rushed, look around before you get out and stay alert to the surroundings. Never walk directly to your car. Always approach from a different direction than when leaving your car. This will give you the opportunity to check the surrounding area for people lurking in the area. If something doesn?t feel right, it probably isn?t so ?get yourself out of there and seek help!?

*When entering a parking lot, drive so that your headlights will illuminate dark areas where questionable subjects can hide. When leaving you car, walk briskly to your destination. When returning, have your keys in hand and be ready to enter your vehicle immediately. Fumbling for keys in a pocket or purse leaves you in a vulnerable position. If you have an alarm, deactivate it when you to get to within a few feet from it, not from a long distance. Deactivating an alarm from a distance reveals the location of your car to everyone in the area. Finally, if a parking lot appears dangerous, drive away and find another parking spot. (*Bruce J. Schryver, Ph.D., CSP. ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 05-15-02)

*"When parking your vehicle, pay close attention to lighting as well as exits. If you plan to park in an area for an extended period of time and return after dark, make note of lighted areas in the parking lot and the location of exits, especially in a parking garage. Vehicles parked in dark areas make inviting targets for would-be thieves and carjackers.

Also, take a quick walk-around your vehicle before entering to make sure there are no obstructions or devices left under your tires to disable your vehicle.? (*Source: Todd Dickson, Corporate Security Manager, Quicksilver Inc., Huntington Beach, California, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 10-28-03)

*A few years ago, I worked for a very large southeast Texas sheriff's department. One night on patrol on the west side of our county I was dispatched to a service station/convenience store for a stolen car report. When I arrived at the station a very well dressed and distraught woman was waiting in the store. She reported a man stole her car after she had filled it with gas. She had paid for the gas at the pump with a credit card and left her keys in the car as she filled the tank herself. When she finished filling the car and closed the tank cover the man, who had been lurking around the station for some time, rushed her, pushed her out of the way, jumped into the car, started it with the keys she had left in the ignition and drove off. All of this was captured on the station's security cameras, but the car was never recovered and the thief never identified. Even if you are standing three feet from the door of your car, someone can steal it if they have the keys you left in the ignition. So always pocket your keys! (*Source: Patrick Calloway, Security Tip of the Week, © Security Products E-News ®, 02-27-02.)

If it happens to you...

If the carjacker threatens you with a gun or other weapon, give up your car. Don't argue. Your life is worth more than a car. Get away from the area as quickly as possible. Try to remember what the carjacker looked like: sex, race, age, hair and eye color, special features and clothes.
Report the crime immediately to the police.

Take Action

Work with Neighborhood Watch groups, law enforcement, automobile club, and other concerned groups to get the word out about carjacking prevention. Try a special flier, a community forum, and posters. Make sure that driver education classes talk to teens about preventing carjacking and other auto theft. Call the local radio stations and ask the manager to air carjacking prevention tips during commuting hours. Ask your insurance agent or company to put carjacking and other auto theft prevention information in notices and bills. Enlist parking lot owners, shopping mall security, and transit authorities to print and distribute educational materials with carjacking prevention tips. Place carjacking prevention fliers or brochures in the waiting rooms or dealer service departments, auto repair shops and gas stations. Ask your state's Motor Vehicle Administration to display carjacking and auto theft prevention advice - posters, handouts, etc.- in its offices and distribute prevention tips in all mailings. (Source: AutoLifeMinders.com)

Security Risk ? Programmable Door Locks

Many newer vehicles are equipped with this feature. Every time you move the shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors will lock. And, every time you stop and move the shift lever into PARK (P), the doors will unlock. While this is a form of convenience it may very well represent a security risk. Someone lurking nearby bent on carjacking your vehicle, or worse, could quickly enter the vehicle and force you to drive off. Even if you were to see a person reach for the door handle, the chances of you being able to place the vehicle into gear or hit the power lock switch are remote indeed. To insure positive control of the locking functions, it is highly recommended this feature be modified to ensure all doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P) with no automatic door unlock. Follow the instructions in your owner manual.

*Have your car(s) outfitted with a ?glow in the dark? trunk release inside the trunk so that if a carjacking takes place and you are taken hostage and placed in the trunk you have the capability of escaping. (Source: Charles A. Hammaker, Jr., CPP, CFE, former Director of Safety and Security, Blue Cross-and Blue Shield-Florida)

Enjoy the day,
Bill

[Mr. Security]

Good points Bill. Just to add a couple of suggestions (hope I didn't miss it in your posts):

- Keep your extra keys at home locked in a key box to prevent a burglar from taking any cars, motorcycles, etc. that may be at home when you are away.

- Use caution when requesting help over a CB radio because your car has broken down. Unscrupulous individuals may respond to your location. A cell phone is preferred.

- If you are approached by a carjacker while getting into your car, you may want to carefully toss your keys TOWARD the carjacker so that his reflex to catch them distracts him from aiming and firing his gun if you decide to make a run for it.

[Bill Warnock]

Every security plan should have appendices dealing with specific issues, these presented are a few of them.

f. Kidnap/Extortion? Dated? It must be remembered, abduction is a sentinel event. When was it last exercised? Federal and/or local law enforcement assistance furnished? Does it contain these hard to remember items?

*The Front Lines: Kidnappings a growing concern

For protection officers and security professionals on the front lines, a new national survey commissioned by Honeywell and The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reveals that abductions and kidnappings are the second-highest safety concern for parents and grandparents.

The survey, "Keeping Kids Safe: Parents and Grandparents Speak Out," found that only drugs are a greater child safety concern.

In response to the need for more prevention information, Honeywell and NCMEC have partnered to aggressively promote abduction prevention.

"The Honeywell/NCMEC team will bring valuable safety and abduction prevention information to parents, teachers and communities," says Reve Walsh, who helped establish NCMEC after her son, Adam, was abducted from a department store and murdered in 1981. "Education and awareness are the keys to preventing abduction and exploitation of children."

NCMEC and Honeywell have established the "Got 2B Safe! Think Smart and Take Charge!" child safety education program, delivered to more than 25,000 third-grade teachers, which contains safety tips, hands-on activities and valuable strategies for helping children be safer at school, at home and at play.

The NCMEC partnership is part of Honeywell's community outreach initiative, Honeywell Hometown Solutions. (*Source: ?News ? Security Beat,? © Access Control and Security Systems ®, 11-25-03)

(1) Thorough up-to-date executive and family member biographical packages prepared, sealed and stored in a dedicated limited access ?two-man rule? safe in the security office?

(a) Are access logs to the packages maintained?

(b) Does the package contain current pictures, full front and profile?

(c) Does the package contain fingerprints?

(d) Does the package contain footprints?

(e) Does the package contain a DNA profile?

(f) Does the package contain handwriting samples consisting of ten lines of words and numbers? Adults should run-in-place for 15 seconds and as quickly as possible redo the first five lines previously written. Why? This simulates stress, which, if kidnapped, will be a factor in determining authenticity of individual?s handwriting.

(g) Does the package contain a full physical description to include, if male, whether or not circumcised, location and size of tattoos, scars, and other anomalies? If female, does the package include obstetrical-gynecological information to include cesarean section incision marking, breast augmentation and or reconstruction?

(h) Does the package contain a full medical history to include current doctors, medicines, prosthetic devices, and eyeglass prescriptions?

(i) How fast can complete dental records be provided to law enforcement?

(1) Are planners familiar with the 3-2-1 concepts in kidnapping?

(2) Are planners familiar with the Stockholm syndrome, that is, the kidnap victim identifying, empathizing, and in the extreme, protecting the kidnapper from harm to include the rescuers? If not, explain why not?

(a) Is this phenomenon briefed to all those undergoing training? If not, explain why not?

(b) Are those undergoing training briefed on control mechanisms and degradation methods utilized by kidnappers? If not, explain why not?

(3) Do all adults and teenagers have individual cellular phones preprogrammed for 911 or other emergency numbers? If the answer is no, how will emergency communication be accomplished?

(4) Do the elderly wear wristband or pendant GPS compatible transmitters? When removed, does an alarm sound? Where?

(5) Do infants and young children wear wristband GPS compatible transmitters? When removed, does an alarm sound? Where?

(6) Vehicle tracking devices such as Lo-Jack? or ON-STAR? employed by executives and immediate family members?

(7) Are vehicles outfitted with glow-in-the-dark trunk releases inside the trunk so that if a carjacking takes place and the individual was taken hostage and placed in the trunk they had the capability to escape? If not, can vehicles be economically retrofitted?

(8) Does everyone understand the importance of the duress code or sign in conveying kidnap or extortion threats?

h. Rape Awareness? Dated? When was it last exercised? Does it contain these hard to remember items?

(1) Does the company provide or sponsor employee self-defense and safety training? Has corporate counsel approved the training?

(a) How is this training administered: lecture, visual aids, and live demonstrations?

(b) How does the employee participate? If not, explain why not?

(c) Has any official certification body approved this training? If the answer is yes, what level, e.g., local, state or federal? Have the curricula vitae of the instructors been verified? By whom?

(d) Does this training include proscriptions against washing, touching or otherwise disturbing soft tissue touched, pressed or squeezed by the assailant? Why? Within 24 hours fingerprints can be removed from undisturbed soft tissue! Developed by US Army CID in the mid 1980s. (Source: US Army CID)

(e) Have women been instructed to maintain strong, thoroughly cleaned and manicured fingernails? Have women been instructed on how to use their fingernails when scratching an assailant? Have women been instructed to let only QUALIFIED medical personnel or police officers remove debris from under their fingernails? Why? Obtain material for possible DNA analysis and establish proper evidentiary chain of custody!

[Bill Warnock]

(2) Who assists in presentations, medical (nurse and doctor), police, or other? Explanation of ?rape kit? made?

(3) In the event of an assault, are free outreach services available to the victim?

(4) If the victim suspects the use of ?the date- rape pill;? any number of drugs in the Benzodiazepines family which have an amnesiac effect, such as Rohypnol®? or Versed®?; Restoril®?, especially when mixed with alcohol; gamma hydroxyl butyrate (GHB), a thick bitter tasting liquid; knockout drops or chloral hydrate, or similar type drug; is this suspicion expressed to police and medical authorities when taken to the hospital for examination and subsequent testing? If unsure, recommend immediate testing or testing within 12 hours! Traces of GHB exit the body in 12 hours, a word to the wise!

(5) Describe the services that are provided and the technical expertise of those providing them?

(6) Is counseling available to the victim?s family?

(7) Is counseling available to fellow workers, male and female alike?

(8) For further information contact the local rape crisis center or The National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673, for free, confidential assistance. The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) endorses this action.

i. Anti-Robbery? Dated? Date last exercised? Did local police or Federal Bureau of Investigation furnish assistance? Does it contain these hard to remember items?

(1) Who trained the staff on what to do in case of a robbery, including notification procedures, identification procedures, and nonintervention behavior? Remember ?training for error? and ?cognitive set error.? Have the curricula vitae of the instructors been verified?

(2) Have signs been posted notifying the public that limited cash is kept on the premises?

(3) Have well-placed security cameras and mirrors been installed?

(a) Where are the cameras monitored?

(b) Are surveillance tapes maintained? How long?

(c) Who in management is responsible for reviewing these tapes?

(4) Depending upon the location, have bullet resistant enclosures been installed for employee protection?

(5) Is there a two-employee rule in place at this location? If an employee is absent, is a management person assigned to fill in?

(6) What are the policies and procedures for cash drops?

(7) Is there a drop safe?

(8) Is it under surveillance and observation, and is it monitored?

(9) How often are receipts and cash deposited?

(10) Are there patterns to deposits?

(11) Have deposit procedures been established and are they followed?

(12) Do clerks or attendants carry only the minimum amount of cash? Who in management established this amount?

(13) Is there sufficient quantity and quality of lighting inside, outside, front and outside side or rear exits?

(14) Is there a clear, unobstructed view of the streets, merchandise, rest rooms, and so forth?

(15) Are emergency phone numbers printed boldly on the phones?

(16) Are the perimeters of buildings clear of potential hiding places, such as Dumpsters®?, boxes, shrubbery, and the like?

(17) Are the windows locked and alarmed?

(18) If the structure is two stories, are all ground floor windows locked or fitted with ventilation locks?

(19) Are all keys accounted for?

(20) Are all employee vehicles secured and observable?

(21) After closing, are all windows and doors secured?

(22) Is the alarm system properly activated?

(23) After closing, are outside and selected interior luminaries operating correctly?

(24) If there are cash registers, are the drawers left open and tipped up to discourage break-ins?

(25) Does local law enforcement conduct receive notification before after-hours check is performed?

(26) Do you need to restrict vehicular or pedestrian traffic flow onto the property after hours? If so, should you limit or restrict drive-in points of access?

(27) Are rest rooms locked and keys maintained with an interior clerk or attendant?

(28) Are posters and signs displayed so as not to block visibility from the outside? (Source: Protection of Assets Bulletin®, ?Security Design,? Randall, I Atlas, CPP, AIA, December 1994, ©1994, The Merritt Company)

(29) Would this facility be a candidate for Preseach?s® remote PICS P-3000?? If so, would the existing phone and electrical systems support it?

j. Executive Protection? Dated? When was it last exercised? Were there neutral observers? Does it contain these hard to remember items?

(1) Were executives trained at a nationally recognized training facility? If not, explain why not? Have the curricula vitae of the instructors been examined?

(2) Are planners familiar with the 3-2-1 concepts in kidnapping?

(3) Were executives trained in evasive driving techniques? If not, explain why not? Have the

[Bill Warnock]

curricula vitae of the instructors been verified?

(4) *Tips: How to detect surveillance

The Regional Security Office of the U.S. Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, offers the following tips on how to detect surveillance of American citizens traveling abroad.

Keep a low profile; avoid areas where foreigners are known to congregate.
Avoid crowds and demonstrations.
Be unpredictable. An unpredictable target is a hard target.

How to be unpredictable

Vary routes.
Vary times of departure. Allow a minimum of a one-hour departure window. This is especially important in the morning when people are most conditioned to a routine.
Do not keep routine, standing appointments.
Change transportation. If you have a second car, use it on occasion. Also occasionally use taxis instead of your personal vehicle.

How to determine and detect surveillance

Stop abruptly and look to the rear.
Suddenly reverse your course.
Stop abruptly after turning a corner.
Watch reflections in shop windows or other reflective surfaces.
Enter a building and leave immediately by another exit.
Walk slowly and then rapidly at intervals.
Drop a piece of paper to see if anyone retrieves it.
Board or exit a bus or subway just before it starts.
Make sudden turns or walk around the block.

While taking these actions, watch for people who are taken by surprise, react inappropriately, suddenly change direction or give a signal to someone else. Surveillance will not normally look directly at the target, but they may do so if they are surprised or unaware that you are observing them. If you detect this type of reaction, immediately depart the area and go to a safe haven.

How to detect vehicle surveillance

For possible vehicular surveillance, look for the following indicators:
Correlated movement -- your vehicle changes lanes and one behind does the same, or makes the same turns, etc.
Inappropriate or crude disguises.
Communications equipment.
Physical gestures and attempts to keep you in sight.
Note taking. (*Source: ?News Brief,? © Security Products E-News ®, 10-30-03)

(5) Are all executive vehicles outfitted with glow-in-the-dark trunk releases inside the trunk so that if a car jacking took place and the individual was taken hostage and placed in the trunk they had the capability to escape?

(6) Do all executives receive refresher training? If not, explain why not? Remember ?training for error? and ?cognitive set error.?

(7) If body-armor has been issued, what NIST approved and certified laboratory conducted verification tests? What are the NIJ 0101.04 levels of protection?

(a) Does the vest provide puncture (knife) protection?

(b) Does the vest fully meet ©H.P. White® 0400.02 standard?

(8) Has security management provided formalized training to corporate executives concerning the use of booby-traps as tools of terrorism and or intimidation? If not, explain why not?

(a) Have executives been encouraged to report any suspicious looking items near, on or under their vehicle, corporate or private, to security management when on corporate property or to law enforcement at other times? If not, explain why not?

(b) Have executives been specifically warned not to go near or touch any suspicious or unknown device? If not, explain why not?

(c) Have family members been formally trained on what to look for and to whom they should report their findings? Does this training include the warning not to go near or touch any suspicious or unknown device? If not, explain why not?

(9) Has security management provided formalized training to corporate executives and adult family members concerning the use of global positioning satellite (GPS) vehicle-tracking systems and how to inspect vehicles for such devices to include how they may be hidden? If not, explain why not?

A GPS vehicle-tracking system is intended to provide vehicle location information so you know where a vehicle is, what it is doing and where it has been. Vehicle tracking reports includes valuable information such as speeds and headings. A GPS tracking device can locate a vehicle from any computer or machine with Internet access, from anywhere on the globe at any time. These devices can be as small as cigarette packages. Typically they are magnetically attached to the bumper or fender well for quick installation and retrieval; however, it can be hung or mounted anywhere in or on the vehicle. Monitored from anywhere, they can determine the route of travel and easily intercept either the principal or dependents drawing little or no attention.

(10) *Resources for Travel Abroad.

(a) The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) maintains one of the most comprehensive publicly available sites at http://www.ds-osac.org.

(b) Another source of useful information on international travel is the government publication ?A Safe Trip Abroad,? found at http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/travel/safetrip/safetrip.htm.

(c) Make a special note of the Overseas Citizens Services call center at 888-407-4747. They can answer questions about safety and security overseas that might not be addressed on these Web sites. (*Source: ?Advice to the Traveling American Executive,? by Bob Wynn and Gerald Becknell, © Security Technology and Design ®, August 2005)

k. Travel Security? Dated? Date if last update? Does it contain, as a minimum, the following? (Has management accepted its responsibility to provide adequate safety and security to employees traveling on its behalf?

(1) Does security management use the Department of State?s Overseas Security Advisory Council electronic bulletin board (http://travel.state.gov) concerning foreign safety and security issues to include airport security? Before a travel outside the US, does management provide?

(a) Consulting a travel medicine professional well before departure?

[Bill Warnock]

(b) Placing the international certificate of vaccination with the employee passport?

(c) Determining medical and dental health is stable?

(d) Insuring employee knows their medications and medical history?

(e) Insuring appropriate medications including antibiotics for traveler?s diarrhea and other infections suspected are properly labeled packed in carry-on luggage?

(f) Insuring employee carries extra pairs of prescription glasses and/or contact lenses?

(g) Assist employee in reviewing medical insurance to insure coverage abroad?

(h) Provide employee with a personal first-aid kit?

(i) Provide or strongly recommend packing appropriate nutritional bars?

NOTE: *The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued its first safety and health bulletin advising business travelers of health risks abroad.

The bulletin lists precautions to take when visiting developing countries, as well as warnings for those traveling to other destinations. Travelers can access these on OSHA?s Web site by visiting http://www.osha.gov/dts/tib and selecting ?Safety and Health During International Travel? in ?2002? column.

According to the US Department of Commerce, there has been a significant increase in recent years in the number of US residents visiting countries where they are at risk for contracting infectious diseases. In 1998, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 59% of such travelers had not taken any preventive medication, and 13% had not been prescribed a drug not recommended for the area to which they were traveling.

To combat the failure of travelers to receive preventive medication?resulting in unnecessary illness, medical expense and the potential spread of contagious diseases within travelers? local communities?OSHA refers readers to two other sources: Health Information for International Travel, www.cdc.gov/travel; and the US Department of State?s Web site, http://www.travel.state.gov, which offers Consular Information Sheet for every country, Public Announcements, Travel Warnings and Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad. (*Source: ?Travel,? © AAA WORLD ®, November/ December 2002 Issue)

(2) Do the travel coordinator and security management have working relationships with one or more travel agencies such as AAA® or Omega®? Have signed confidentiality agreements been executed?

(a) Are travelers issued a travel safety and security kit? If the answer is yes, does it contain, as a minimum: loose-leaf binder with site specific information and instructions, maps with highlighted directions, cellular telephone (preprogrammed for 911), flashlight, supplementary door locking device, portable smoke detector, personal escape hood, and portable door alarm? If the answer is no, explain why not?

1 Are travelers reminded not to drink water served or dispensed on airlines or to drink beverages containing ice cubes? This advisory is issued because water and ice cubes have been found to contain high levels of contaminates.

2 When traveling from their lodging location for dining or entertainment, are travelers reminded to travel in pairs or small groups? If not, explain why not? Are all travelers reminded never drink a beverage that has been left unattended? If not, explain why not? Advice: Always order a fresh beverage, no exceptions!

3 Are female travelers reminded when they receive a phone call from an alleged lodging employee concerning a room problem the traveler did not report, to act as though there were someone else in the with them? Are they further instructed to contact lodging management to verify the call with the calling party?s name? If not, explain why not?

4 Are travelers reminded they should never open their door to anyone whom they do not know without first checking with lodging management? Are they further instructed if there is any doubt, not open the door, and if necessary to notify local law enforcement? If not, explain why not?

NB: The purposes of these procedures are to reduce incidents of in room rapes or assaults by criminals frequenting the facility and/or by lodging employees.

5 Are all travelers, especially female travelers, reminded to check the walls and mirrors for signs of visual invasion? Place a finger against a mirror in many locations. If the finger is not reflected back, the mirror may have been transformed into a viewing device from another room. Remember: ?No Space, leave the Place!? (Source: Entismorus@aol.com) Check for holes in the wall especially across from the bathroom or bed. A hole may provide a view from another room. If this is the case, the traveler should request another room and advise hotel/motel security of their observations.

6 Are travelers reminded to look under a vehicle as they approach it to insure would be assailants are not hiding under the vehicle? If not, explain why not?

(b) When travelers frequently visit the same city or location, are they always lodged in the same hotel or motel? Why? Is security management aware of such arrangements? If not, explain why not?

(c) If travelers are always lodged in the same hotel or motel, are they booked into the same rooms? Why? Suspicion should be raised that audio and visual surveillance could be conducted.

(d) Are prostitutes or escort service personnel known to frequent the hotel or motel? Is security management aware of such involvement? If so, are there any counterintelligence or blackmail implications? Any documented?

(e) Are there documented industrial espionage incidents or cases stemming from liaisons in the hotel or motel? Both male and female prostitutes have been known to use nipple rouge containing an anesthetic, drugging the unsuspecting traveler. Security management should not underestimate the Sexpionage or sputnik threats!

(3) Are employees encouraged to carry only traveler?s checks? Does the corporation pay service charges?

(4) To the maximum extent possible, consistent with sound business practices, when foreign travel is involved, does security management insist on the use of US flagged carriers with proven security and safety records?

(5) Does security management insist on the use of financially sound carriers (air, rail, and road)?

(6) When organic travel assets are involved, is all travel, except local, coordinated with security management?

(7) Are travel itineraries coordinated with security management in all instances? Any exceptions?

(8) Prior to departure does security management provide the traveler with up-to-date FACTUAL

[Bill Warnock]

travel information relating to security issues and conditions?

(9) Does security management provide the traveler with airport etiquette information?

(10) Does security management instruct the traveler to limit the packing of luggage to himself or herself, personal valet, or an immediate family member?

(11) Does security management instruct the traveler to maintain positive personal control of all baggage while traveling to and from airports, train stations or bus terminals?

(a) *Does security management, in cooperation with airport police, instruct the traveler on diversionary tactics used by baggage thieves to steal their baggage especially while in airline check in queues, at security screening points, at telephone kiosks, in restrooms, in departure lounges and at baggage claim areas? (Always remember security screeners are trained to detect prohibited items in luggage and on persons, not baggage thieves.) (Source: Air Transport Association® Security Symposium, April 24-25, 1991, Miami, Florida)

*(b) Security tips for air travelers

Pack Smart

Plan Ahead - Pack Smart

Carry-on Baggage is a small piece of luggage you take onboard the airplane with you. You are allowed one carry-on in addition to one personal item such as a laptop computer, purse, small backpack, and briefcase or camera case.

Check Baggage is luggage you check in at the ticket counter or at curbside. It will not be accessible during your flight.

DO NOT LOCK YOUR BAG‼ In some cases, the TSA will have to open your baggage as part of the screening process. If your bag is unlocked, then TSA will simply open the bag and screen the bag. However, if the bag is locked and TSA need to open your bag, then locks may have to be broken. Therefore, TSA suggests that you help prevent the need to break your locks by keeping your bag unlocked. In the near future, TSA will provide seals at the airport for you to use to secure your luggage as an alternative to locking your bag. Until that time, you may want to consider purchasing standard cable ties to secure your bag if it has zippers. If TSA screeners open your bag during the screening procedure, they will close it with security seal. In addition, TSA will place a notice in your bag alerting you to the fact that TSA screeners opened your bag for inspection. Our highly trained screeners will take great care to secure your bag for the rest of our trip.

Below are a number of tips for packing your checked baggage that will help to speed your trip and ensure that your check bag makes the flight with you.

?Don?t put film in your checked baggage, as the screening equipment will damage it. Considerputtingpersonalbelongingsinclearplasticbag storeducethechancethataTSAscreenerwill have to handle them.
Pack shoes, boots, sneakers and other footwear on top of other contents in your baggage.
Avoid over-packing your bag so that the screener will be able to easily reseal your bag if it is opened for inspection. If possible, spread your contents over several bags. Check with your airline or travel agent for maximum weight limitations.
Avoid packing food and drink items in checked baggage.
Don?t stack piles of books or documents on top of each other; spread them out within your baggage.

You can move through the screening process more quickly by following these packing tips:
Do NOT pack or bring prohibited items to the airport.
Put all underdeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment will damage underdeveloped film.
Check ahead of time with your airline or travel agent to determine the airline?s baggage policy, including number of pieces you can bring and size and weight limitations.
Carry-on baggage is limited to one carry-on bag plus one personal item. Personal items include laptops, purses, small backpacks, briefcases or camera cases. Remember, 1+1.
Don?t forget to place identification tags with your name, address and phone number on all of your baggage, including your laptop computer. It is a good idea to place an identification tag inside your baggage as well.
Avoid over packing so that articles don?t spill out if your bag is opened for inspection.
Think carefully about the personal items you place in your carry-on baggage. The screeners may have to open your bag and examine its contents.
Wait to wrap your gifts. Be aware that wrapped gifts may need to be opened for inspection. This applies to both carry-on and checked baggage.

Final Checklist

Before You Arrive - Final Checklist

Check with your airline or travel agent to determine how early to arrive at the airport. Recommended check-in times differ by airline.

To determine whether you should go to the ticket counter or check-baggage screening area first. Not all airports are the same since the addition of check-baggage screening. Curbside check-in may also be available.
If you do not have checked baggage and you already have a boarding pass, ticket or ticket confirmation, you can proceed directly to your gate through the security checkpoint. Please note that certain airlines do not offer gate check-in.

Check with your airport

to confirm which parking lots are open if you will be parking at the airport. Some lots may be closed for security reasons. Be sure to allow extra time for parking and shuttle transportation.

At the airport
Do not leave your car unattended in front of the terminal. Security measures dictate that unattended cars will be towed.
Watch your bags and personal belongings at all times. Do not accept packages from strangers. If you see unattended bags or packages anywhere in the airport terminal or parking area, immediately report them to a security officer or other authority.
Report any suspicious activities or individuals in the airport or parking lot to airport security.
Do not joke about having a bomb or firearm. Do not discuss terrorism, weapons, explosives, or other threats while going through the security checkpoint. The mere mention of words such as "gun," "bomb," etc., can compel security personnel to detain and question you. They are trained to consider these comments as real threats.
Check to make sure you
bring a boarding pass, ticket, or ticket confirmation, such as a printed itinerary and a government-issued photo ID. Children under the age of 18 do not require an ID.
bring evidence verifying you have a medical implant or other device if it is likely to set off the alarm on the metal detector, bring evidence verifying this condition. Although this is not a requirement, it may help to expedite the screening process.
Have removed prohibited items such as pocketknives, scissors and tool from your carry-on baggage.
Be Prepared ? Dress the Part

[Bill Warnock]

Be aware that any metal detected at the checkpoint must be identified. If you set off the alarm, you will be required to undergo secondary screening, including a hand-held metal detector and a pat-down inspection
You can remove metal items at the security checkpoint and place them in the bins provided. The bins will be sent through the X-ray machine. You can save time; however, by not wearing metal items or by placing such items in your carry-on baggage before you get in line.
TIP: Avoid wearing clothing, jewelry, or other accessories that contain metal when traveling.
Jewelry (pins, necklaces, bracelets, rings, watches, earrings, body piercing, cuff links, lanyard or bolo tie).
Shoes with steel tips (safety shoes), heels, shanks, buckles or nails.
Clothing with metal buttons, snaps or studs.
Metal hair barrettes or other hair decoration
Belt buckles.
Under-wire brassieres.

Hidden items such as body piercing may result in a pat-down inspection. They may asked to remove your body piercing in private as an alternative to the pat-down search.

TIP: Avoid placing metal items in your pockets.

Keys, loose change and lighters.
Mobile phones, pagers and personal digital assistants (PDAs).

TIP: Instead, place jewelry and other metal items in your carry-on baggage until you clear security.

TIP: Pack your outer coat or jacket in your baggage when possible.

Outer coats including trench coats, ski jackets, leather jackets, overcoats and parkas must go through the X-ray machine for inspection. If you choose to wear an outer coat to the checkpoint, you will need to either place it in your carry-on or put it in the bin that is provided for you. You will not need to remove suit jackets or blazers unless requested by the screener.
In an effort to try and better educate the air traveler and expedite the travel experience, the FAA has created a list of security tips for air travelers. It includes such items as what you cannot bring in carry-on luggage, as well as tips on checking in.

PERMITTED AND PROHIBITED ITEMS

Prohibited items are weapons, explosives, and incendiaries and include items that are seemingly harmless but may be used as weapons?the so-called ?dual use? items. You may not bring these items to security checkpoints without authorization.

If you bring a prohibited item to the checkpoint, you may be criminally and/or civilly prosecuted or, at the least, asked to rid yourself of the item. A screener and/or Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) will make this determination, depending on what the item is and the circumstances. This is because bringing a prohibited item to a security checkpoint?even accidentally?is illegal.

For updates and for more information, visit TSA?s website at www.TSATravelTips.us or call the Consumer Response Center toll-tree at 1-866-289-9673 or email TellTSA@tsa.dot.gov

(12) Does security management instruct the traveler concerning the theft of PCs while undergoing security screening? (PCs should be packed in carry-on baggage within a Faraday enclosure.)

(13) Does security management instruct the traveler to contact airport security or police if they believe their luggage has been tampered with? Contraband or prohibited items could have been smuggled into the luggage!

(14) Does security management provide the traveler with personal or family assault, hostage and hijack training? Have the curricula vitae of the instructors been verified? Remember ?training for error? and ?cognitive set error.?

(15) Does security management provide nondescript business cards and luggage ID tags using the travel agency?s business address and business account number to all travelers? Are ID tags placed inside each piece of baggage for swift identification should exterior identification be destroyed? By using your home address you are advertising to the world you are not home. This leaves your family and property vulnerable. In a similar fashion, a business address invites a telephone call to the business seeking information on your whereabouts and date of return. Administrative staff and coworkers and family members must be instructed to take a message and telephone number regardless of how persuasive or demanding the caller is or becomes. Reports of purported emergencies should be referred to security management. There should be no exceptions! Extensive documentation exists proving luggage handlers, bellhops, and limo and taxi drivers have sold traveler?s information to burglary rings.

(16) Does security management utilize CAP Index® or a similar firm providing risk assessment?

(17) Does security management maintain copies of the front page of all employee passports? Does each traveler maintain a similar copy separate from the passport?

(18) Does security management conduct a formal debriefing of all employees upon return from travel? If hard intelligence is developed, are the proper authorities immediately notified? Coordination maintained with counterparts?

(19) Does security or safety management insure that when employees are lodged in hotels or motels more than three stories high such facilities are equipped with sprinkler systems? (Government and/or contract employees will not be reimbursed in accordance with the Hotel/Motel Fire Safety Act of 1990 (29 CFR 1900-1999) if such facilities are not sprinklered.)

(20) Does security or safety management insure that disabled employees are lodged only in hotels or motels having an active program for the safe evacuation of disabled visitors and otherwise ADA compliant? What method was used to verify the quality and quantity of special needs for their employees? Was the information provided corroborated by the local fire department or other appropriate safety agency?

(21) Does security or safety management provide fire safety information to travelers concerning actions to take in case of a hotel or motel fire? What is the adequacy of such information, if provided? If no information is provided, explain why not? (Recommend the issuance of the ?©Fire Safety Manual? published by the ©National Safety Council®, 444 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 or www.nsc.org)

(22) Does security management brief employees concerning telephone credit card scams such as shoulder surfing or simulated dial tones when using pay phones? Employees should be instructed to use, whenever possible phones with swipe readers to defeat or otherwise mitigate shoulder surfing threat. In all instances, to defeat the simulated dial tone scam is to instruct employees to lift the receiver, hand up, wait 15 seconds, and then make their call. (Source: ?©The Back Page,? by John Fay, Volume 9, Number 9, September 1999, Security Technology and Design Magazine®.)

(23) Does the company have kidnap and ransom insurance plans for its travelers? Is the insurer registered and licensed with and by the State Attorney General or Secretary of Commerce as a legitimate insurance provider for the kinds of insurance coverage being provided? Is the insurance plan good outside the US? If not, explain why not?

[Bill Warnock]

(24) Has the security management briefed employees on credit card ?skimming,? the electronic lifting of the full track data encoded on the magnetic stripe of a valid card and transferring that data to another magnetic stripe on a counterfeit card? Careful study of both corporate and private credit cards must be the rule of the day in all instances. (Source: Security Hot Sheet ?©Who Am I?? by Sandy Jaeger, Volume 10, Number 6, June 2000, Security Technology and Design® Magazine.)

(25) *Security in the workplace regarding voice mail or e-mail messaging is often overlooked. When out of town or on a vacation, never leave a voicemail or automatic e-mail message like "I'm on vacation in Italy for two weeks and I can't take your call." A better message would be "I am temporarily out of the office and unavailable to return calls, contact another extension for more immediate assistance." Thieves and even co-workers often look for this kind of information for easy targets. A recent study showed that 18 percent of working drug users stole from co-workers in order to support their habit. (*Source: ?Security Tip of the Week,? James R. Black, CPP project manager of Engineered Automation Systems, © Security Products E-News ®, 04-03-02.)

(26) *When staying in a hotel, place all valuables in a safety deposit box at the front desk. Every state has an innkeepers' statute limiting their liability for missing items. If a valuable item comes up missing in your room, you may end up paying for it yourself. Hotels have several sizes to accommodate both large and small valuables. (Source: *Security Tip of the Week, Chris Richardson, director of loss prevention for Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, © Security Products E-News ®, 04-10-02)

(27) *Never leave your garage door opener on your visor when you valet your car locally or at a "park and fly" location when traveling. The vehicle registration in your glove compartment contains your address and the garage door opener provides easy access. (*Source: Dr. "Isabel" Perry, of thesafetydoctor.com, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 04-24-02)

(28) *When traveling, do not put large amounts of money or a photo ID in your wallet. Put enough money in your wallet for the day's expenses and the rest in a pouch strapped to your body under your clothes. Do not display large amounts of money. Do not place luggage or purchased items behind you while waiting for a taxi or bus, or talking to someone. Instead, put them in front of you and hold them with one hand. (*Source: ?Security Tip of the Week,?Gil Fernando of SMC Corp. of America in Los Angeles, © Security Products E-News ®, 08-21-02)

(29) *"As part of my duties, I travel to various cities for training. Once I have performed the initial survey of [the hotel's] stairwell locations, emergency exits, etc., I survey the layout of the furniture in my room in case I have to move around or leave in the dark. I also check the window design and height from the ground or lower roofs in case that is the only exit.

Prior to turning in for the night, I ensure that the door is closed and locked, apply the chain or swing bar and place my set of keys balancing on top of the interior door handle. That way, should anyone try the door, the keys will fall and hopefully wake a very sound sleeper." (*Source: Paul Hackerson, Security Coordinator, Rockford Housing Authority, Rockford, Illinois, ?Security Tip of the Week,? © Security Products E-News ®, 09-09-03)

(30) *The State Department offers hotel security tips for Americans traveling abroad -- tips that also may be applied to domestic travel, corporate and personal travel as well.

Making reservations
Make your own reservations when practical and consistent with company policies. The fewer people involved in your travel and lodging arrangements, the better.
If traveling abroad, especially in politically sensitive areas, consider making reservations using your employer's street address, without identifying the company, and using your personal credit card.
If arriving after 6 p.m., ensure that reservations are guaranteed.
Request information about parking arrangements if anticipating renting an automobile. Be aware that credit card information has been compromised in the past.
Arriving at or departing from the hotel

Do not linger or wander unnecessarily in the parking lot, indoor garage or public space around the hotel. Be alert for suspicious people and behavior. Watch for distractions that are intentionally staged to setup a pickpocket, luggage theft or purse snatch.
Stay with your luggage until it is brought into the lobby or placed into the taxi.
Consider using the bellman. Luggage in the "care, custody and control" of the hotel causes the hotel to be liable for your property. Protect claim checks -- they are your evidence.
Keep in mind though that there are limits of liability created by states and countries to protect hoteliers. Personal travel documents, laptops, jewelry, and other valuables and sensitive documents in excess of $l, 000 in value should be hand-carried and personally protected.

If you arrive by auto, park as close to a hotel access point as possible, and park in a lighted area. Remove all property from the car interior and place it in the trunk. Avoid leaving valuables or personal documents in the glove compartment.

If using valet service, leave only the ignition key, and take trunk, house or office keys with you. Avoid dimly lit garages that are not patrolled and do not have security telephones or intercoms.
Registration
If the hotel for review by the police or other authorities, which is policy in some countries, may temporarily hold your passport obtain its return at the earliest possible time.
If carrying your luggage, keep it within view or touch. One recommendation is to position luggage against your leg during registration but place a briefcase or a purse on the desk or counter in front of you.

Always accept bellman assistance upon check-in. Allow the bellman to open the room, turn lights on, and check the room to ensure that it is vacant and ready for your stay. Before dismissing the bellman, always inspect the door lock, locks on sliding glass doors, optical viewer, privacy latch or chain, guest room safes, dead bolt lock on interconnecting suite door and telephone. If a discrepancy is found, request a room change.

Ask where the nearest fire stairwell is located. Make note of which direction you must turn and approximately how many steps there are to the closest fire stairwell. Also, observe where the nearest house telephone is located in case of an emergency. Determine if the telephone is configured in such a manner that anyone can dial a guest room directly, or whether the phone is connected to the switchboard. Most security-conscious hotels require a caller to identify whom they are attempting to telephone rather than providing a room number.

Note how hotel staff are uniformed and identified. Many crimes occur when people misrepresent themselves as hotel employees on house telephones to gain access to guest rooms. Avoid permitting a person into the guest room unless you have confirmed that the person is authorized to enter. This can be verified by using the optical viewer and by calling the front desk.

Upon arrival

[Bill Warnock]

Invest in a good map of the city. Mark significant points on a map such as your hotel, embassies and police stations. Study the map and make a mental note of alternative routes to your hotel or local office should your map become lost or stolen.

Be aware of your surroundings. Look up and down the street before exiting a building.

Learn how to place a telephone call and how to use the coin telephones. Make sure you always have extra coins for the telephone.

Keep your luggage locked whenever you are out of the room. It will not stop the professional thief, but it will keep the curious maid honest.

Keep your passport with you at all times. Relinquish it only to the hotel if required by law when registering or if you are required to identify yourself to local authorities for any reason.

Around the hotel

Note if hotel security locks certain access points after dark. Plan to use the main entrance upon return to the property.

Speak with the bellman, concierge and front desk regarding safe areas around the city in which to jog, dine or sightsee. Ask about local customs and which taxi companies to use or avoid.

Keep briefcases, wallets and purses in view or "in touch" while using phones and in hotel bars and restaurants. Criminals often use areas around public areas to stage pickpocket activity or theft. Caution is urged in safeguarding telephone credit card numbers. Criminals wait for callers to announce credit card numbers on public phones and then sell the numbers for unauthorized use. (*Source: ?News Brief,? © Security Products ®, 10-23-03)

(31) *The do's and don'ts of hotel security
Hotel guests rarely think of hotel security as an amenity. Whether you check into a Ritz-Carlton or a Holiday Inn Express, you expect that you and your belongings will be safe. But that's not always the case.
"When you travel, you'd better give security a thought," Chris McGoey, a California-based hotel security expert, tells The Chicago Tribune. "You don't bring your expensive jewelry and leave it in your room. You put it in the room safe or the hotel safe. Or you don't bring a laptop and just leave it in the room. I carry mine with me, put it in my car which has an alarm system, or I put it in the hotel safe."
McGoey says there are several things hotel guests can do to protect their valuables.
"Just don't stick valuables in a drawer or under your underwear. That's the first place a thief will look. If you are a frequent traveler, you have to be prepared. Bring luggage that's lockable and a cable device to lock your luggage to a heavy piece of furniture," he says.
Hotels and motels, of course, bear some responsibility for thefts of a guest's property, but that liability varies from state to state. Hotel guests also take the following simple precautions to contribute to their own safety:
*don?t take a room next to an elevator, an emergency staircase or at the corner of a building. Also avoid rooms on the first three floors because they get hit the most.
*when you leave the room and don't expect the housekeeper to come in, put a do-not-disturb sign on the door knob, leave the TV set on just loud enough to hear through the door and leave a light on that can be seen through the peephole. (*Source: ?Security Beat Newsletter,? © Access Control and Security Systems ®, 08-23-05)

Let us all be safe.

From the other posts, I've learned a lot and will be revising this once again. Thanks guys and gals.
Enjoy the day,
Bill

[Mr. Security]

After you have thoroughly applied all of the suggestions posted above, please remember to take this final step:

Put your head between your knees and kiss your butt goodbye anyhow! :eek: :D :p

Sorry, I couldn't help myself. :)

[jakeslife]

Good advice.

[N. A. Corbier]

Good advice.

Alas, its illegal for me to do so in this state unless I carry openly. :)

[1stWatch]

Wow, that's a lot of stuff to read. I'm sure I'll finish it by the end of the week. :)
My safety methods are a bit more simple. You know - shoot and move, shoot and move, that kind of thing. :D