HOLIDAY ADVISORY: 10 Things to do Before the Police Arrive

It’s right around the corner – the most dangerous time of the year. That’s what they call the period between Thanksgiving to New Year.

Law enforcement agencies often deal with more emergencies during this period than any other time of the year. Further, some corporate security consulting firms suggest extra measures their clients should take to protect their staff, facilities, and information.

While holiday crimes can include shoplifting and break-ins, much more serious crimes such as workplace violence and active shootings also increase during the holiday season.

If you are witnessing such a serious crime in progress, what would you do to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and get help?

According to Johnathan Tal, Chief Executive?Officer of TAL Global Corporation, an international investigative and security-consulting firm, here are ten things you need to do until the police arrive:

1. Run, Hide, or Fight. “These are always our first options but may not always be possible.”
2. Remain calm; avoid any quick or sudden moves.
3. Call 911, but only when it is safe to do so.
4. Provide your name and the location of the event.
5. Tell the operator exactly what is going on.
6. Maintain your composure. “The operator’s job is to understand the situation and send help. Emotions, screaming, or yelling gets in the way.”
7. Tell the operator how many culprits and how many people are in the building.
8. If there are injuries, let the operator know this as well.
9. If the opportunity arises to flee the building, do so.
10. When the police enter the facility, keep your hands up and spread your fingers. “Remember, the police have no idea who is the culprit and who are the victims.”

Tal adds, “there’s much merrymaking during the holidays, [but] this could disguise a lot of inner conflict and stress, which blows up during the holidays. Keep your guard up. Know what to do in an emergency.

We would like to hear from you. How are you staying safe this Holiday Season?