At this time of year you might be one who is diamond hunting for yourself or someone else. If you are -- a word of caution Before making any decisions about which necklace or ring to buy or who to buy it from do your homework.
As the recession is dying out that renewed interest, especially amongst the affluent, in buy an exquisite diamond ring, bracelet or necklace for that someone special is good news for the diamond industry but don't assume that all members of the jewelery industry will respond to this by treating you honestly. Most will -- but not necessarily all.
In order to protect yourself look for things like certification by the local jewelery association. In Canada look for the CJA sign in the window of the jewellery store or check the web page at: www.canadianjewllers.com
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Get a Good Description With a Camera
Some encounters with criminal types or people who arouse your suspicion happen with such lightning speed that it can be difficult to get a good description. But sometimes a camera can help to solve the problem if you get a chance to shoot a few frames with your digital camera using your cell phone or other type of camera.
Just be sure that it is safe to do so as many persons get upset very quickly when they even suspect you are taking pictures of them.
It is perfectly legal to take pictures of people on the streeet in Canada , -- although you should check your local laws first. It is usually only when you are going to use these pictures to reproduce in some magazine that you might need a signed model release form from the subject.
Something else I would consider is what type of camera you are going to use -- if you are going to do this on a regular basis as a security guard or other security professional. In many cases it might be better to carry a disposable camera for such use rather than any expensive digial camera -- just in case the police or courts want the actual camera you shot the picture with in some cases or there is a possibility of your camera getting damaged during the incident.
Just be sure that it is safe to do so as many persons get upset very quickly when they even suspect you are taking pictures of them.
It is perfectly legal to take pictures of people on the streeet in Canada , -- although you should check your local laws first. It is usually only when you are going to use these pictures to reproduce in some magazine that you might need a signed model release form from the subject.
Something else I would consider is what type of camera you are going to use -- if you are going to do this on a regular basis as a security guard or other security professional. In many cases it might be better to carry a disposable camera for such use rather than any expensive digial camera -- just in case the police or courts want the actual camera you shot the picture with in some cases or there is a possibility of your camera getting damaged during the incident.
Don't Forget These Points When The Need to Use Force Erupts
I was reading a newspaper account the other day about a policeman who savagely beat a teenager he was interviewing whom he suspected was one of the trouble makers at a party when he became enraged by the youth's claims that he was not the one he was looking for.
.He, of course is far from the lone sufferer of this malady in the police (and even security) world as you can see from numerous media accounts of the excessive use of force by police officers or security guards. It seems that far too many police officers and security people forget some critical parts of the use of force -- such as these:
Everyone in Canada, whether they are a private citizen or a police officer is allowed to use force to protect themselves or somebody else, to prevent an assault or other crime, or to prevent a suspect from escaping -- however:(1) They must be sure that what they are doing at the time is either allowed or authorized by law. (2) There must be no other alternative to the use of that force ( especially lethal force). (3) They must start with a minimum amount of force -- just enough to control the situation..(4) They must never use any more force than necessary -- what can be justified by law.
This, of course, requires a continuous assessment of the situation from the time they first learn of the situation or person they are going to confront right through to the end of the engagement.
If more police officers -- and security professionals practised this type of thing there is bound to be far few cases of police and security guard brutality.
In emergency situations following such a guideline is not easy as decisins about how to react to somebody must be made in secons not minutes, but it seems that far too often police officers -- and others --don't follow any guidelines such as the National Use of Force Model in Canada at all they just explode in a rage -- destroying their own careers as well as the lives of their victims.
A prudent police officer or security professional will always keep these guidelines in mind. As most do!.
.He, of course is far from the lone sufferer of this malady in the police (and even security) world as you can see from numerous media accounts of the excessive use of force by police officers or security guards. It seems that far too many police officers and security people forget some critical parts of the use of force -- such as these:
Everyone in Canada, whether they are a private citizen or a police officer is allowed to use force to protect themselves or somebody else, to prevent an assault or other crime, or to prevent a suspect from escaping -- however:(1) They must be sure that what they are doing at the time is either allowed or authorized by law. (2) There must be no other alternative to the use of that force ( especially lethal force). (3) They must start with a minimum amount of force -- just enough to control the situation..(4) They must never use any more force than necessary -- what can be justified by law.
This, of course, requires a continuous assessment of the situation from the time they first learn of the situation or person they are going to confront right through to the end of the engagement.
If more police officers -- and security professionals practised this type of thing there is bound to be far few cases of police and security guard brutality.
In emergency situations following such a guideline is not easy as decisins about how to react to somebody must be made in secons not minutes, but it seems that far too often police officers -- and others --don't follow any guidelines such as the National Use of Force Model in Canada at all they just explode in a rage -- destroying their own careers as well as the lives of their victims.
A prudent police officer or security professional will always keep these guidelines in mind. As most do!.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Are You Aware of Your Surroundings?
With so many persons, both men and women, disappearing across North America these is often wonder how much of this could be prevented if the person had been more aware of their surroundings - namely dangers from predators who often watch potential victims for some time before striking.
When I started teaching a course for prospective security guards I quickly learned that most persons go through the day going from point A to point B without noticing very much about their surroundings. At the start of each class I usually tell the students that at the end of the week I will be asking them to describe somebody in the class as well as the stairwell leading up to the classroom.
Most fail miserably at this.
And this is something you see in everyday life as well. Stand on any street corner and you'll notice just how many persons are so caught up in cell phone conversations or their efforts to get where they are going that they don't have a clue who they just past or who is sitting in a car beside them.
As many predators observe you for some time to plan if, how, and where they are going to attack you this tendency of most of us creates many easy targets for these criminals.
When I started teaching a course for prospective security guards I quickly learned that most persons go through the day going from point A to point B without noticing very much about their surroundings. At the start of each class I usually tell the students that at the end of the week I will be asking them to describe somebody in the class as well as the stairwell leading up to the classroom.
Most fail miserably at this.
And this is something you see in everyday life as well. Stand on any street corner and you'll notice just how many persons are so caught up in cell phone conversations or their efforts to get where they are going that they don't have a clue who they just past or who is sitting in a car beside them.
As many predators observe you for some time to plan if, how, and where they are going to attack you this tendency of most of us creates many easy targets for these criminals.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Could You Create an Accurate Description?
Could you create an accurate description of the suspect if your were attacked by a criminal or witnessed a crime? A surprisingly large number of people could not.
In one instance the manager of the bank gave the police a suspect descrption that was the complete opposite of reality. After the traukmatic crimne her mind played games on her and where she describedh im as short he was tall; where describged him as at he was muscular and athletic. Where described him as having a drak complextion with brown or black hair he was actually blond with blue eyes.
Your mind can play games on you like this if you are either the victim of a crime or a witness, but you can overcome these problems if you are more prepared. Some security people, for instance make a practice of developing their sills in suspect description by practicising when people they encounter on a regular basis.
They practice recreating a mental picture of that person who just passed them whenever they have the opportunity. In this way they become more adept at noticing and remembering the features of persons they meet.
It is just like riding a bicycle. At first you will find it difficult but as you practice it will become second nature.
In one instance the manager of the bank gave the police a suspect descrption that was the complete opposite of reality. After the traukmatic crimne her mind played games on her and where she describedh im as short he was tall; where describged him as at he was muscular and athletic. Where described him as having a drak complextion with brown or black hair he was actually blond with blue eyes.
Your mind can play games on you like this if you are either the victim of a crime or a witness, but you can overcome these problems if you are more prepared. Some security people, for instance make a practice of developing their sills in suspect description by practicising when people they encounter on a regular basis.
They practice recreating a mental picture of that person who just passed them whenever they have the opportunity. In this way they become more adept at noticing and remembering the features of persons they meet.
It is just like riding a bicycle. At first you will find it difficult but as you practice it will become second nature.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Don't Fool Yourself
When it comes to food you can cause yourself a lot of harm by convincing yourself that all food is good simply because it is labeled organic.
As Jon Jerring, Managing Editor of Total Health Breakthroughs warns, for instance, sugar is still sugar whatever its source and can cause a lot of health problems including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes if you consume too much. This causes dangerous spikes in the insulin in your blood.
You can't go overboard just because it is organic or experts tell you a particular food or fruit is rich in antioxidants or other disease fighting quialities unlike a friend of ours who heard that the beta carotene in carrots is not only good for protecting your eyesight but is also a cancer fighter. She responded to this information by consuming so much this through jkuices that her fingers actually developed an orange tinge.
Also, when shopping don't fool yourself into believing that just because something is labeled "organic" that it is. Be a food detective and check out its source.
As Jon Jerring, Managing Editor of Total Health Breakthroughs warns, for instance, sugar is still sugar whatever its source and can cause a lot of health problems including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes if you consume too much. This causes dangerous spikes in the insulin in your blood.
You can't go overboard just because it is organic or experts tell you a particular food or fruit is rich in antioxidants or other disease fighting quialities unlike a friend of ours who heard that the beta carotene in carrots is not only good for protecting your eyesight but is also a cancer fighter. She responded to this information by consuming so much this through jkuices that her fingers actually developed an orange tinge.
Also, when shopping don't fool yourself into believing that just because something is labeled "organic" that it is. Be a food detective and check out its source.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Two Excellent Sources of Critical Security Information
If you are looking for clear concise information on how to protect your business or protect clients' people, property, and information there are two excellent magazines available.
One is Canadian Security . You can find an online edition at www.canadiansecurity mag.com.
the other one is Loss Prevention, published by Spark Publications and found at www.LPportal.com.
Subscriptions to both publications are free to security and loss prevention professionals and come in online and print editions. Both focus on timely, usable ideas.
One is Canadian Security . You can find an online edition at www.canadiansecurity mag.com.
the other one is Loss Prevention, published by Spark Publications and found at www.LPportal.com.
Subscriptions to both publications are free to security and loss prevention professionals and come in online and print editions. Both focus on timely, usable ideas.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
A Wake Up Call for Everyone
A recent report in Metro News on November 12, 2009 in Vancouver B.C. Canada was a real wake up call for everyone.
According to the story many persons during the recent H1N1 epidemic scare , including hockey players, staff of private colleges and others have went into survival mode jumping the queue to get their H1N1 vaccination ahead of others.
Professor Scott Schieman a University of Toronto Sociology professor says it is all about their personal "survival mode".
According to Schieman when threats like the swine flu (H1N1 virus) erupt many persons will do whatever it takes to ensure t heir personal survival.
Their selfish actions upset many persons but it should wake the rest of us up, realizing that there are many persons in the world like that, people who would do anything to ensure their personal survival regardless of how it affected others and take steps to make sure that we have a personal survival plan for ourselves and our families and practiced putting into action so we are prepared to survive any natural or man-made disaster.
In any natural disaster, although their have been some heart-warming accounts of people going out of the way to rescue and help others after natural disasters, this might not always be the case and we should be prepared to survive independent of others around us if they are not so willing to put others ahead of themselves.
Being prepared to ride out any disasters will also put you in a much better position to be able to help others who are caught unprepared or in situations beyond their control.
According to the story many persons during the recent H1N1 epidemic scare , including hockey players, staff of private colleges and others have went into survival mode jumping the queue to get their H1N1 vaccination ahead of others.
Professor Scott Schieman a University of Toronto Sociology professor says it is all about their personal "survival mode".
According to Schieman when threats like the swine flu (H1N1 virus) erupt many persons will do whatever it takes to ensure t heir personal survival.
Their selfish actions upset many persons but it should wake the rest of us up, realizing that there are many persons in the world like that, people who would do anything to ensure their personal survival regardless of how it affected others and take steps to make sure that we have a personal survival plan for ourselves and our families and practiced putting into action so we are prepared to survive any natural or man-made disaster.
In any natural disaster, although their have been some heart-warming accounts of people going out of the way to rescue and help others after natural disasters, this might not always be the case and we should be prepared to survive independent of others around us if they are not so willing to put others ahead of themselves.
Being prepared to ride out any disasters will also put you in a much better position to be able to help others who are caught unprepared or in situations beyond their control.
Friday, December 4, 2009
A Case of False Assumptions
The case of Amanda Knox who was today found guilty of murdering her room mate and sentenced to 26 years in jail is a stark reminder that the justice we enjoy in Canada and the United States does not always exist in other countries --even some European countries such as Italy.
Amanda, her lawyers and family apparently assumed she would receive a fair trail instead of a verdict determined by the media.
Her final fate will not be decided perhaps for another two to six years if and when an appeal is heard or the case is heard by European Court of Justice forcing Amanda family and friends through an emotional gauntlet for some time.
The case is a stark reminder of the need for Americans Canadian and others who are protected by the presumption of innocence rule in their justice systems to take extra precautions to protect themselves when travelling to European and other countries as all of this is reminiscent of the British couple in Spain or Portugal were the police there accused them of been responsible for their young daughter's disappearance a few years ago.
Amanda, her lawyers and family apparently assumed she would receive a fair trail instead of a verdict determined by the media.
Her final fate will not be decided perhaps for another two to six years if and when an appeal is heard or the case is heard by European Court of Justice forcing Amanda family and friends through an emotional gauntlet for some time.
The case is a stark reminder of the need for Americans Canadian and others who are protected by the presumption of innocence rule in their justice systems to take extra precautions to protect themselves when travelling to European and other countries as all of this is reminiscent of the British couple in Spain or Portugal were the police there accused them of been responsible for their young daughter's disappearance a few years ago.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Plan Security Services Carefully
How do you plan your security services when planning security to protect your home or place of business.
Before even picking up that telephone one of the first things you should do as a business owner or executive in charge of corporate security is to do a site or needs assessment.
This should include asking yourself questions such as these:
In addition to that do a thorough background check of all of these companies and ask to speak to current clients as well before making any decisions about selecting a security service contractor.
Before even picking up that telephone one of the first things you should do as a business owner or executive in charge of corporate security is to do a site or needs assessment.
This should include asking yourself questions such as these:
- What types of problems are we running into now?
- What problems have we had over the past 6 months or year?
- What problems are our neighbors or other businesses faced with? Do these show a pattern of criminal activity in our neighborhood or industry?
- Is or home or place of business really secure?
- Where or how has our current security system or program left us vulnerable?
- Can we handle the problem through our own in-house security personnel or security systems such as alarm and camera system -- or should we hire an out side contractor?
In addition to that do a thorough background check of all of these companies and ask to speak to current clients as well before making any decisions about selecting a security service contractor.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Discourage Travel Bag Thieves
The November 14, 2009 edition of The Province in Vancouver, BC
carried some timely reminders from Jane Engle of The Los Angeles Times for travelers and their luggage. These included suggestions like keeping valuables such as, "laptop computers GPS systems, imortant papers like adaption papers and passports with you when you fly.
According to Engle airlines often will not compensate you if such items are stolen or lost at airports.
Her other suggestions include packing lightly enough so you can carry most or all of your clothes and other items with you; using oddly shaped or brightly colored luggage that will stand out making these easy for you to see and identify and hard for thieves to snatch without being noticed and using cheaper or cheaper looking luggage that won't be so tempting to thieves. This can protect both your luggage as well as your valuables inside.
carried some timely reminders from Jane Engle of The Los Angeles Times for travelers and their luggage. These included suggestions like keeping valuables such as, "laptop computers GPS systems, imortant papers like adaption papers and passports with you when you fly.
According to Engle airlines often will not compensate you if such items are stolen or lost at airports.
Her other suggestions include packing lightly enough so you can carry most or all of your clothes and other items with you; using oddly shaped or brightly colored luggage that will stand out making these easy for you to see and identify and hard for thieves to snatch without being noticed and using cheaper or cheaper looking luggage that won't be so tempting to thieves. This can protect both your luggage as well as your valuables inside.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Three Ways to Protect Your Health
The Health &Science page of The Vancouver Sun on November 14, 2009 brings us news about three ways we can protect our health.
First of all it reports a study by a Dr. Krista A. Varady of the University of Illinois at Chicago who found that obese people lost, "an average of 5.6 kilograms (about 12 pounds)" by fasting every second day for 8 weeks.
Then under a subhead, "Millions killed each year from toxins they eat" the Sun's editors also report a study by the World Health Organization claiming that millions die each year from from bugs and toxins in their food. According to the WHO tainted food results in some 1.2 million deaths persons over 5 years old.
Under still another subhead, "Oral health linked to prevention of other diseases" the page editor warns of the link between oral health problems and other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimers and other mental functions.
All these are timely reminders for people throughout the world concerned about ways to protect their health
First of all it reports a study by a Dr. Krista A. Varady of the University of Illinois at Chicago who found that obese people lost, "an average of 5.6 kilograms (about 12 pounds)" by fasting every second day for 8 weeks.
Then under a subhead, "Millions killed each year from toxins they eat" the Sun's editors also report a study by the World Health Organization claiming that millions die each year from from bugs and toxins in their food. According to the WHO tainted food results in some 1.2 million deaths persons over 5 years old.
Under still another subhead, "Oral health linked to prevention of other diseases" the page editor warns of the link between oral health problems and other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Alzheimers and other mental functions.
All these are timely reminders for people throughout the world concerned about ways to protect their health
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Diiscouragte Shoplifters Without Arresting When in Doubt
When in doubt about whether or not suspects actually have a stolen item in their possession and don't want to risk a possible false arrest scenario Loss Prevention Officers or other store personnel can still discourage future thefts by letting suspects know that they will be watched carefully the next time they return to the store.
One veteran loss prevention officer makes a habit of approaching such person he knows are thieves but is not one-hundred percent sure if they have the item on them and gives them a friendly greeting.
He says something like, "Good evening Sir. I see you have been spending some time looking for something. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Invariably the persons says, "No thanks." and starts to leave the store.
At this point the loss prevention officer, follows up his initial greeting with a friendly reminder that he is always in the store and will keep an eye open to see if he can be of more assistance to this person on his next visit.
The Loss Prevention Officer says that there is usually not a next visit by this person. At least not for a long time.
One veteran loss prevention officer makes a habit of approaching such person he knows are thieves but is not one-hundred percent sure if they have the item on them and gives them a friendly greeting.
He says something like, "Good evening Sir. I see you have been spending some time looking for something. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Invariably the persons says, "No thanks." and starts to leave the store.
At this point the loss prevention officer, follows up his initial greeting with a friendly reminder that he is always in the store and will keep an eye open to see if he can be of more assistance to this person on his next visit.
The Loss Prevention Officer says that there is usually not a next visit by this person. At least not for a long time.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Protect Your Lips and Skin
This is a precaution that, according to one make up professional many women do not think of or both with when trying the samples at cosmetic counters in stores.
And that is this: How sure sure you that the lipstick tip or other cosmetic applicator has been properly sanitized by the sales clerk or cosmetic consultant before YOU use it?
According to the professional make up artist and cosmetic consultant I was talking to many ladies do not think twice about using lipsticks and other samples on their lips or skin.
She says she would never do it unless she made sure the sample had been properly sanitized between uses. These samples, she warns, "could harbor a variety of skin diseases."
And that is this: How sure sure you that the lipstick tip or other cosmetic applicator has been properly sanitized by the sales clerk or cosmetic consultant before YOU use it?
According to the professional make up artist and cosmetic consultant I was talking to many ladies do not think twice about using lipsticks and other samples on their lips or skin.
She says she would never do it unless she made sure the sample had been properly sanitized between uses. These samples, she warns, "could harbor a variety of skin diseases."
Keep It Low Key
Whether you are a security professional ( guard) or ordinary citizen when you confront people in possibly controversial situations try and start off that confrontation just like most policeman: Low Key if possible, in a diplomatic, non-threatening or irritating manner.
It could bring the other person onside quickly and in extreme cases protect you from injury or legal problems.
First of all, unless your are the type of person who enjoys getting involved in road or other types of "rage" incidents first of all ask yourself whether or not you should respond at all to your adversaries comments or conduct.
From personal experience I know that if you respond to situations without thinking about the possible reactions from others your actions can result in some very unexpected -- even potentially hazardous reactions from others.
Once I was stuck behind another motorist who was completely caught up in his cell phone conversation --oblivious to the changing lights.
In exasperation, I finally pulled beside him and shouted, "Hey buddy! get off your cell phone" and drove through the intersection just as the light turned red again.
I quickly forgot all about this confrontation until three months later when I was driving through the same intersection and got stuck in traffic and a strange, irate face suddenly appeared in my carr window.
"Remember me? I'm the person you told to get off the cell phone! I've been looking for you for three months. Never do that to me again buddy.!"
I looked so startled and then started to laugh so hard the man walked off in disgust, shouting back, "never again, buddy, remember", but it could have turned out much more serious.
So, before you respond to adversaries think first about what the possible consequences could be.
In retrospect it would have been much easier -- and safer -- if I had just shut my mouth and driven quietly through at intersection three months before.
It could bring the other person onside quickly and in extreme cases protect you from injury or legal problems.
First of all, unless your are the type of person who enjoys getting involved in road or other types of "rage" incidents first of all ask yourself whether or not you should respond at all to your adversaries comments or conduct.
From personal experience I know that if you respond to situations without thinking about the possible reactions from others your actions can result in some very unexpected -- even potentially hazardous reactions from others.
Once I was stuck behind another motorist who was completely caught up in his cell phone conversation --oblivious to the changing lights.
In exasperation, I finally pulled beside him and shouted, "Hey buddy! get off your cell phone" and drove through the intersection just as the light turned red again.
I quickly forgot all about this confrontation until three months later when I was driving through the same intersection and got stuck in traffic and a strange, irate face suddenly appeared in my carr window.
"Remember me? I'm the person you told to get off the cell phone! I've been looking for you for three months. Never do that to me again buddy.!"
I looked so startled and then started to laugh so hard the man walked off in disgust, shouting back, "never again, buddy, remember", but it could have turned out much more serious.
So, before you respond to adversaries think first about what the possible consequences could be.
In retrospect it would have been much easier -- and safer -- if I had just shut my mouth and driven quietly through at intersection three months before.
Protect and Improve Your Vision
Here's something to look into to protect and improve your vision -- especially if you wear reading glasses you bought at your local pharmacy or drug store. Natural Vision Eyewear.
As with anything else concerning your health you should check this out with your family physician, but if it is true it could help you to do away with those reading glasses -- which gradually (or quickly) destroy your eyesight.
Often alternative or complementary care techniques can help you to solve or lesson health problems that mainstream medicine can not - and this system seems to be worth worth looking into.
It is based on wearing a set of eye glasses that have material perforated with pinholes, described by Natural Vision Therapy as , "pinhole glasses" and following a set of eye exercises.
From having my eyesight helped when I was younger by reflexology (a foot message technique) treatments I know that some of these alternative or complementary treatments do work, but do your homework and talk to your primary care healthcare practioners about what you are doing.
If your physician or family doctor is dogmatically opposed to you trying such complementary treatments without giving you valid reasons in your case I would be looking for another doctor as mainstream medicine and their pharmaceuticals do NOT have all of the answers to problems affecting your health and this doctor rather than being concerned with our well being is probably more concerning with protected his income -- partially ensured by your visits about a problem that never goes away.
As with anything else concerning your health you should check this out with your family physician, but if it is true it could help you to do away with those reading glasses -- which gradually (or quickly) destroy your eyesight.
Often alternative or complementary care techniques can help you to solve or lesson health problems that mainstream medicine can not - and this system seems to be worth worth looking into.
It is based on wearing a set of eye glasses that have material perforated with pinholes, described by Natural Vision Therapy as , "pinhole glasses" and following a set of eye exercises.
From having my eyesight helped when I was younger by reflexology (a foot message technique) treatments I know that some of these alternative or complementary treatments do work, but do your homework and talk to your primary care healthcare practioners about what you are doing.
If your physician or family doctor is dogmatically opposed to you trying such complementary treatments without giving you valid reasons in your case I would be looking for another doctor as mainstream medicine and their pharmaceuticals do NOT have all of the answers to problems affecting your health and this doctor rather than being concerned with our well being is probably more concerning with protected his income -- partially ensured by your visits about a problem that never goes away.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Keeps Your Eyes On The Ground
Here is a detection technique that can provide you with critical clues that you or your house is being watched.
When you come out of your home early in the morning take a quick look at small shrubs in front of windows. Are they crumpled or bent?
If so there is a good possibility that somebody has been looking in, or trying to look into your windows late at night.
We were first alerted to prowlers and evidence they sometimes left behind by a neighbor who lives across the street. One night we had gone to we received a call from her to alert us to the fact that she saw the silhouette of a man's head between some shrubs and the front window. Of course by the time we ran down stairs the suspect had disappeared -- but we did find low lying flowers and shrubs right by the bent and broken and the print of a large shoe right in front of the window.
From that time on from time to time we have seen other suspicious signs of prowlers such as cigarette butts and other debris that could only have gotten there if somebody had dropped it.
Her call and this debris alerted us to the need to more vigilant both while entering and leaving our home late at night and also to install extra security devices such as cameras and security lights and more secure window locking devices and update our alarn system.
When I told him about what had happened us a friend in the security profession tells me he regularly takes the time to check what suddenly appears on the ground on his patrol route as such debris can warn him that somebody is or has been prowling around the property.
When you come out of your home early in the morning take a quick look at small shrubs in front of windows. Are they crumpled or bent?
If so there is a good possibility that somebody has been looking in, or trying to look into your windows late at night.
We were first alerted to prowlers and evidence they sometimes left behind by a neighbor who lives across the street. One night we had gone to we received a call from her to alert us to the fact that she saw the silhouette of a man's head between some shrubs and the front window. Of course by the time we ran down stairs the suspect had disappeared -- but we did find low lying flowers and shrubs right by the bent and broken and the print of a large shoe right in front of the window.
From that time on from time to time we have seen other suspicious signs of prowlers such as cigarette butts and other debris that could only have gotten there if somebody had dropped it.
Her call and this debris alerted us to the need to more vigilant both while entering and leaving our home late at night and also to install extra security devices such as cameras and security lights and more secure window locking devices and update our alarn system.
When I told him about what had happened us a friend in the security profession tells me he regularly takes the time to check what suddenly appears on the ground on his patrol route as such debris can warn him that somebody is or has been prowling around the property.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Take a Moment To Look Around
I'll never forget a video I was watching about personal security which depicted a young female jogger running along a path and then a stalker hitting her like a guided missile out of no where to know her down. Fortunately, in this case, the scene was staged to demonstrate just how suddenly people can attack an unsuspecting person.
It was an excellent illustration of the need to stay alert at all times. Whether your are a security guard out patrolling a site or a person just out on a stroll it is a good idea to take a few minutes now and then to take a look around a your surroundings.
In both cases you will notice things that you miss if you are constantly on the move -- just focussed on getting from one point to the other and will gain a better picture of what is around you -- whether it is the beauty of nature, somebody's landscaping skills, or potential dangers.
People with criminal intent often observe you for a period of time because making their move -- whether it is against you or against property or people you are protecting.
So be observant (Don't allow yourself to get paranoid about this.) about your surroundings and every now and then take a few minutes to survey the scene around you. Just showing that you are alert can do much to discourage criminals.
It was an excellent illustration of the need to stay alert at all times. Whether your are a security guard out patrolling a site or a person just out on a stroll it is a good idea to take a few minutes now and then to take a look around a your surroundings.
In both cases you will notice things that you miss if you are constantly on the move -- just focussed on getting from one point to the other and will gain a better picture of what is around you -- whether it is the beauty of nature, somebody's landscaping skills, or potential dangers.
People with criminal intent often observe you for a period of time because making their move -- whether it is against you or against property or people you are protecting.
So be observant (Don't allow yourself to get paranoid about this.) about your surroundings and every now and then take a few minutes to survey the scene around you. Just showing that you are alert can do much to discourage criminals.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Protect Your Property from Criminals
Wrought iron screens, landscaping, and cameras added to the outside of your home or place of business can discourage break and enter without detracting from the appearance of your property.
The other day I saws a very attractive wrought iron enclosure around the front porch of a house that not only added another level of protection in a high crime area but also gave the house a very nice Spanish appearnce to this well maintained house.
It is also possible to buy very attractive looking window screens as well as thorn bushes to protect basement and other vulnerable windows around your home or office building.
And look into installing CCTV cameras to strategic (and protected) positions around the outside of your buildings. They can be connected to your home or business computer systems quite easily nowadays.
All of these things can help help you to protect your property, family and employees from predators withut breakikng the bank.
The other day I saws a very attractive wrought iron enclosure around the front porch of a house that not only added another level of protection in a high crime area but also gave the house a very nice Spanish appearnce to this well maintained house.
It is also possible to buy very attractive looking window screens as well as thorn bushes to protect basement and other vulnerable windows around your home or office building.
And look into installing CCTV cameras to strategic (and protected) positions around the outside of your buildings. They can be connected to your home or business computer systems quite easily nowadays.
All of these things can help help you to protect your property, family and employees from predators withut breakikng the bank.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Don't Let Them Ring Up Your Cell Phone Bill
Here is another timely tip passed on to us from Ian Abramson of International Loss Prevention Systems. It could be critical.
According to Ian all cell phone numbers of have been released to telemarketers starting this month to market their goods and services.
This could become not only very annoying, but also an extra charge on your cell phone bill.
However, you can protect yourself from this bill by calling the Do Not Call List Canada Web site and register your phone there.
According to Ian all cell phone numbers of have been released to telemarketers starting this month to market their goods and services.
This could become not only very annoying, but also an extra charge on your cell phone bill.
However, you can protect yourself from this bill by calling the Do Not Call List Canada Web site and register your phone there.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Protection from Swing Flu Without Hazards of Vaccinations
While you should check with your doctor on all health care advice here are some tips ( passed on to me from Ian Abramson of International Loss Prevention Systems) from Dr. Vinay Goyal (www.livewellamerica.org) that could prove to be invaluable in protecting yourself from this virus.
- Frequent hand washing
- Keep your hands off your face -- " unless you you want to eat, bathe, -- or -- slap.
- Gargle twice a day with warm salt water -- or a product called " Listeri".
- Clean nostrils at least twice a day with warm salt water.
- Eat a lot of citrus fruits. They are rich in Vitamin C.
- Drink as many warm fluids as you can. This forces viruses into your stomach where they can not survive.
Friday, October 16, 2009
A Mind Game That Could Pay Big Dividends
Here is an interesting mind game played by a friend of mine in the security business. It has helped him to be able to create vivid descriptions of suspicious persons he encounters around commercial and industrial sites where he is stationed.
Whenever he gets a chance -- even when he is just walking along the street he tries to recreate the man or woman who just passed or or who he was speaking with. Of course he is careful not to stare at people when he encounters them. He just takes a quick glance and then tries to remember as many of the features of that person as possible and then, when possible, comparing this pictures with the actual person when he meets them again.
This has helped him to create much more vivid and accurate descriptions of suspects and other persons in his reports to clients, supervisors, and the police. He says, "It is just like riding a bike. The more you practice the better you get at it.
Beware of Some Pleasing Odours
Many of the materials you use around your homes and businesses are steadily destroying your health like styrene often woven into the finished carpet as well as some fire retardants. These two are particular bad with styrene a suspected carcinogen while fire retardants cause thyroid problems.
There are, however, a number of ways protect yourself and your family -- at least partially -- from these hazards. One is to buy carpets or rugs made from products like hemp or wool. Another way to buy carpeting that is Green Label Plus Certified according to The Province.com reporter Mike Holmes in his August 2, 2009 feature in The Province. Also check into the material that makes up the carpet underlay. According to Holmes there are some 13 toxic products that manufacturers could have used to make these and the carpets themselves.
And don't think your are safe just because the odor has gone away. The off-gassing or release of toxins into the air can continue long after this has disappeared. When doing your homework when checking into the best carpets and rugs to buy you might also want to plan for a good air purifier -- especially for the rooms of young children; they often suffer the most from the release of industrial toxins.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Can You Read The Signs?
Can you read the signs? The signs that somebody has been around your place of business or residence while you were away.
As any police officer or professional security person can tell you you can easily detect such things by keeping an eye open for things on the ground like cigarette butts or other objects dropped carelessly by people visiting or snooping around your home or business site after or before you left.
Other things that "talk to you" about such visitors might include foot or hand prints left in the soil and carpets etc, or crushed or broken branches in front of windows or around doorways..
More than likely these types of things do not happen often or they are caused by somebody who is no threat to you --but you might be surprised. On more than one occasion we have received a call from neighbors across the the street who say somebody trying to peak in our front windows late at night.
Once you are aware of such signs welcome or unwelcome visitors to your property leave behind you will be more prepared to do whatever is necessary to protect your privacy -- as well as your property and yourself as well as clients to who visit you.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Become A People Watcher
Often the most vauable way you can help fight crime is by being a living camera when you witness suspicious persons or criminal incidents. Yet the accurate description of criminals can be a big problem -- with the description sometimes being the opposite of reality or being very fuzzy.
Yet this can be overcome with a little effort. Instead of walking past people we meet as we walk along the street it is not a bad idea to try and recreate at least some of those persons you pass in your mind if you have the time. You might have a little trouble at first, but it is just like riding that bicycle when you were younger. Practice makes perfect.
Some things you might observe (descretely) as you pass people are things like their eyes. Are they wide apart or close together. What about their shape? Are they round or oval? Do they have a down or up slant?
What is the shape of their eybrows? Are they arched or straight. Do they have a down slant or are they irregular in shape? Are they thick, bushy, or thin?. What of their eye expression? Are they closed lidded with the eyelid covering part of their eye or are their eyes wide open?
Noticing these things, and others we will be mentioning later can help you to create a more accurate picture for the police ( or if you are a budding novelist the beginnings of some interesting characters).
Yet this can be overcome with a little effort. Instead of walking past people we meet as we walk along the street it is not a bad idea to try and recreate at least some of those persons you pass in your mind if you have the time. You might have a little trouble at first, but it is just like riding that bicycle when you were younger. Practice makes perfect.
Some things you might observe (descretely) as you pass people are things like their eyes. Are they wide apart or close together. What about their shape? Are they round or oval? Do they have a down or up slant?
What is the shape of their eybrows? Are they arched or straight. Do they have a down slant or are they irregular in shape? Are they thick, bushy, or thin?. What of their eye expression? Are they closed lidded with the eyelid covering part of their eye or are their eyes wide open?
Noticing these things, and others we will be mentioning later can help you to create a more accurate picture for the police ( or if you are a budding novelist the beginnings of some interesting characters).
Monday, September 21, 2009
Watch Out For The Silent Killer
As the weather turns colder at this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere millions of furnaces are going to be turned back on, but before you do make sure yours is in proper working condition or you could be sentencing yourself and your family to brain damage or death.
Carbon monixide resuslts from incomplete combustion in the furnace burner and is colorless, ordorless, and tasteless; it is a silent killer.
When exposed to it your blood cells prefer it to oxygen starving your body of oxygen with devastating results: Exposure to low levels of this gas over a period of time can result in permanent brain damage. Coma and respiratory failure resulting in death are certain with a prolonged exposure to higher levels of carbon monixide.
There are a number of things you can do to fight this silent killer:
Carbon monixide resuslts from incomplete combustion in the furnace burner and is colorless, ordorless, and tasteless; it is a silent killer.
When exposed to it your blood cells prefer it to oxygen starving your body of oxygen with devastating results: Exposure to low levels of this gas over a period of time can result in permanent brain damage. Coma and respiratory failure resulting in death are certain with a prolonged exposure to higher levels of carbon monixide.
There are a number of things you can do to fight this silent killer:
- Check all interior gas connection
- Check all gas burning furances and other appliances to make sure that the flame is blue --and not red -- which warns of an incomplete combustion problem.
- Install a carbon monoxide alarm. They are not that expenssive
- If someone is overcome remember to get them to oxygen and call the paramedice for respiratory assistance immediately.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
H ow Observant Are You?
Just how observant are you? This can be a critical question because those persons who are planning to attack or follow you often spend some time watching -- either as they pass you on sidewalk or roadway or as you leave your home or place of business.
And the thing is that if the people we teach as prospective security guards in the school where I am an instructor is any indication -- most people go about most of their daily like zombies.
In class after class after we reach the half way mark of the week long class I can ask the class to describe the entrance stairway to me and most of the students do not have a clue about what the interior of the building outside the classroom look like.
It can be a source of laughs as student after student fumbles around trying to remember what his or her surroundings like like. But in view of the fact that there seems to he an increasing number of persons disappearing or being attacked in some way it not something to take lightly.
Without becoming paranoid about the matter and thinking that everyone who looks at you out of the corner of their is about to attack or stalk you should become more aware of your location and surroundings so you do not stumble into either man-made or natural hazards. We will be talking more about this later.
And the thing is that if the people we teach as prospective security guards in the school where I am an instructor is any indication -- most people go about most of their daily like zombies.
In class after class after we reach the half way mark of the week long class I can ask the class to describe the entrance stairway to me and most of the students do not have a clue about what the interior of the building outside the classroom look like.
It can be a source of laughs as student after student fumbles around trying to remember what his or her surroundings like like. But in view of the fact that there seems to he an increasing number of persons disappearing or being attacked in some way it not something to take lightly.
Without becoming paranoid about the matter and thinking that everyone who looks at you out of the corner of their is about to attack or stalk you should become more aware of your location and surroundings so you do not stumble into either man-made or natural hazards. We will be talking more about this later.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Hone Your Highway Survival Skills
Now is the time to hone your roadway defensive driving skills with wintery weather in the Northern Hemisphere just about upon us.
Needless to say you will not be able to drive defensively behind the wheel of a car, van or truck -- or behind the handlebars of a motorcycle of you succumb to any of the following things:
(1) fatigue (2) anger (3 )anxiety, (4) excitement (5) the use of a cell phone ( especially to send text messages (6) drive in the "blind spot" of other drivers -- (Stay highly visible to other drivers.) (7) attempting to share a lane with a cyclist or motorcycle rider and (8) forgetting to drive defensively -- anticipating the mistakes of other drivers
All of this is especially vital to remember for motorcycle riders; they are 23 times more likely to die in motor vehicle accidents as are drivers of other vehicles.
Avoid these mistakes while driving and you will be less likely to be among the 1,200,000 persons who die in traffic accidents around the world each year.
Needless to say you will not be able to drive defensively behind the wheel of a car, van or truck -- or behind the handlebars of a motorcycle of you succumb to any of the following things:
(1) fatigue (2) anger (3 )anxiety, (4) excitement (5) the use of a cell phone ( especially to send text messages (6) drive in the "blind spot" of other drivers -- (Stay highly visible to other drivers.) (7) attempting to share a lane with a cyclist or motorcycle rider and (8) forgetting to drive defensively -- anticipating the mistakes of other drivers
All of this is especially vital to remember for motorcycle riders; they are 23 times more likely to die in motor vehicle accidents as are drivers of other vehicles.
Avoid these mistakes while driving and you will be less likely to be among the 1,200,000 persons who die in traffic accidents around the world each year.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Sometimes Buttoning Your Lip Is The Best Tactic
Here is a little suggestion to keep when driving. This little episode happened to me personally when I was travelling through a busy intersection up here in Vancouver, BC and encountered another driver sitting in the middle of a busy intersection -- through changing of traffics lights -- two times.
I grew snappish, and when the light turned green the third time I pulled up beside him and shouted, " Get off your cell phone and drive," and continued on through the intersection.
I quickly forgot the whole episode until three months later when I was traveling thrugh the same intersection and got stopped in a traffic jam. Then a car pulled up in front of me. and the driver, a fairly big man, jumped out and walked bacto me, stuck his head in my car window and shouted, "Remember me? I'm the guy on the cell phone three months ago! Don't you ever do that to me again buddy!"
I started to laugh to hard the manjust shut up, gave me a disgusted look at strode back to his car and sped away -- leaving me to wait for the next green light.
A humourous incident? Yes, but it could have turned out much differently and since then I make it a point to try and just ignore other drivers and their irritating antics behind the wheel.
Here is a little suggestion to keep when driving. This little episode happened to me personally when I was travelling through a busy intersection up here in Vancouver, BC and encountered another driver sitting in the middle of a busy intersection -- through changing of traffics lights -- two times.
I grew snappish, and when the light turned green the third time I pulled up beside him and shouted, " Get off your cell phone and drive," and continued on through the intersection.
I quickly forgot the whole episode until three months later when I was traveling thrugh the same intersection and got stopped in a traffic jam. Then a car pulled up in front of me. and the driver, a fairly big man, jumped out and walked bacto me, stuck his head in my car window and shouted, "Remember me? I'm the guy on the cell phone three months ago! Don't you ever do that to me again buddy!"
I started to laugh to hard the manjust shut up, gave me a disgusted look at strode back to his car and sped away -- leaving me to wait for the next green light.
A humourous incident? Yes, but it could have turned out much differently and since then I make it a point to try and just ignore other drivers and their irritating antics behind the wheel.
Watch Those Credit Card Charges
If you, like me, are inclined to take too much for granted with credit card charges -- be careful. You might be in for a nasty surprise if you are not matching up your monthly statement with copies of receipt you have.
We assumed that our monthly statements on this account were fairly accurately done and never bothered to keep copies of all the receipts to check our monthly statements.
Then the credit card company zapped us with a claim that our charges suddenly exploded beyond our average monthly purchases and demanded immediate payment of the total amount.
When they told how much our purchases had suddenly escalated we were astounded and asked the credit card representative to send us copies of these mysterious charges. They refused and responded by freezing our other two accounts when we continued press them for signed copies of receipts to match with ours. This battle is still going on with no end in sight.
Remember to check and double check your credit card statements with your copies of receipts. This, as you can see in our case is not absolute protection, but at least it will give you something to fight the crecit card company with in court if the amounts are large enough and you deciide to fight them.
We assumed that our monthly statements on this account were fairly accurately done and never bothered to keep copies of all the receipts to check our monthly statements.
Then the credit card company zapped us with a claim that our charges suddenly exploded beyond our average monthly purchases and demanded immediate payment of the total amount.
When they told how much our purchases had suddenly escalated we were astounded and asked the credit card representative to send us copies of these mysterious charges. They refused and responded by freezing our other two accounts when we continued press them for signed copies of receipts to match with ours. This battle is still going on with no end in sight.
Remember to check and double check your credit card statements with your copies of receipts. This, as you can see in our case is not absolute protection, but at least it will give you something to fight the crecit card company with in court if the amounts are large enough and you deciide to fight them.
Welcome To the ProtectorWelcome to to The Protector, a digest of different ways you can protect yourself in our social and business lives.
Our first warning comes by way of The Province and Reuters back on July 12, 2009. The story warned of the dangers to persons travelling for more than two hours wedged in the tight seats of either a car or airplane seat.
Airplane passengerss who can not get up and move around easily are especially in jeopardy of developing dangerous blood clots.
The report mentions that a Dr. Divay Chandra and colleagues at Harvard University in Boston have proved a definitely link between long air travel and the development of venous thromboembolism or VTE which can kill through strokes, heart attacks or damage to the lungs
According to the Harvard researchers the absolute risk is one case in every 4600 trips -- not enough to justify issuing passengers with anti-clotting drugs. Still there appears to be a very real danger especially for pregnant women or those taking birth control pills -- and obviouslyfor those persons with any type of circulatory problems.
As the report mentions, with the large number of persons travelling by air, estimated to be approximately 2.5 billion in 2010 a fairly large amount of travverls could have problems with blood clots while travelling and while not recommending that all travellers take some sort of anticoagulant they do recommend that persons travelling by air for a long time remember to drink lots of water and move around as much as possible. It might also be a good idea to discuss any possible problems with your family physician before embarkign of any long air trips.
Beware of Possible Blood Clots on Long Trips
Our first warning comes by way of The Province and Reuters back on July 12, 2009. The story warned of the dangers to persons travelling for more than two hours wedged in the tight seats of either a car or airplane seat.
Airplane passengerss who can not get up and move around easily are especially in jeopardy of developing dangerous blood clots.
The report mentions that a Dr. Divay Chandra and colleagues at Harvard University in Boston have proved a definitely link between long air travel and the development of venous thromboembolism or VTE which can kill through strokes, heart attacks or damage to the lungs
According to the Harvard researchers the absolute risk is one case in every 4600 trips -- not enough to justify issuing passengers with anti-clotting drugs. Still there appears to be a very real danger especially for pregnant women or those taking birth control pills -- and obviouslyfor those persons with any type of circulatory problems.
As the report mentions, with the large number of persons travelling by air, estimated to be approximately 2.5 billion in 2010 a fairly large amount of travverls could have problems with blood clots while travelling and while not recommending that all travellers take some sort of anticoagulant they do recommend that persons travelling by air for a long time remember to drink lots of water and move around as much as possible. It might also be a good idea to discuss any possible problems with your family physician before embarkign of any long air trips.
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