Situational Awareness & Personal Safety

Stay Alert. Stay Aware. Stay Safe.

Situational awareness is simply being aware of your surroundings and recognizing what is happening around you. In today's fast-paced world, distractions such as cell phones, headphones, and other electronic devices can make it easy to overlook potential hazards.

Whether you're driving, shopping, exercising, traveling, or simply walking through your neighborhood, staying alert can help you recognize risks, avoid dangerous situations, and make quicker, safer decisions when the unexpected happens.

While no one can prevent every emergency, practicing good situational awareness can improve your ability to respond and protect yourself and those around you. Our goal is not to create fear—but to encourage awareness, confidence, and preparedness.

Stay Present

One of the best ways to improve your personal safety is to stay focused on your surroundings.

Remember to:

Keep your head up and remain alert.
Stay aware of the people and activity around you.
Limit distractions from your phone or other electronic devices.
Avoid wearing headphones in both ears while in public.
Take a moment to regularly scan your surroundings.
Stay vigilant when using public transportation and avoid falling asleep during your commute.
Trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right.

Think Ahead

Whenever you enter a new environment, take a few seconds to assess your surroundings.

Look for:

Emergency exits and escape routes.
Police officers, security personnel, or employees who can assist if needed.
Suspicious behavior or individuals you may want to avoid.
Potential hazards such as uneven pavement, traffic, poor lighting, or obstacles.

The more information you gather, the better prepared you'll be if a situation changes unexpectedly.

Play the "What If?" Game

A simple way to improve your awareness is to mentally prepare for everyday situations.

Ask yourself questions like:

What if I think someone is following me?
What if someone is waiting near my vehicle?
What if an emergency happens while I'm shopping?
What if I become separated from my family in a crowded place?

Thinking through these possibilities ahead of time can help you react more calmly and confidently if an emergency ever occurs.

Avoid Becoming an Easy Target

Criminals often look for people who appear distracted or vulnerable. While victims are never responsible for criminal acts, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Avoid:

Walking with your head down while looking at your phone.
Wearing headphones that block your awareness.
Displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.
Leaving valuables visible inside your vehicle.
Keeping your wallet or purse easily accessible.
Making multiple stops after withdrawing cash from a bank.
Appearing lost in unfamiliar areas.

Instead:

Walk confidently and stay alert.
Keep valuables out of sight.
Go directly to your destination after banking transactions.
Plan your route before leaving home.
If you become lost, seek assistance from a business, police officer, or someone you trust.

Parking Lot, Elevator & ATM Safety

Elevators

Look inside before entering.
If someone makes you uncomfortable, wait for the next elevator.
Stand near the control panel when possible.

Parking Lots

Park in well-lit, populated areas.
Have your keys ready before reaching your vehicle.
Lock your doors immediately after entering.
Keep windows up if approached by a stranger.
Place valuables in your trunk before arriving—not after parking.

ATMs

Use ATMs in well-lit, busy locations.
Scan the area before approaching.
Shield your PIN while entering it.
Stay aware of your surroundings throughout the transaction.
If something doesn't feel right, leave and find another ATM.

If You Encounter a Criminal

Your personal safety is always more important than your property.

Avoid confrontation whenever possible.
Leave the area if it is safe to do so.
If threatened, cooperate if necessary.
Call 911 as soon as you are safely able.
Be the best witness you can by remembering descriptions, vehicles, and directions of travel.

Material possessions can be replaced—your life cannot.