There is little doubt that the world is becoming a more dangerous place and there are several factors that impact the crime rates. The revolving door justice system allows criminals, including violent ones, to walk right out of jail following their arrest because of low or even no-bail policies that have been adopted across the country. Personal responsibility and accountability are becoming a thing of the past. When there are no consequences for bad actions, there is no reason to change your behavior…this is sort of a common sense realization.
Another factor that is not considered enough is the staffing and productivity of law enforcement. Police have been vilified in recent years and that has led to a serious recruitment and retention issue nationwide. When there are not enough officers, that means that the officers who are working are forced to work too many hours. That effects their safety and yours! Combine that fact with the previously noted revolving door policies and many who serve and protect are asking themselves why they are in the profession? All of these issues are interconnected, but they also impact all of us who simply want to keep ourselves and our families safe and free from crime. Note: I put a photo of Maisie on this blog because the post itself is a bit dark, but Maisie brings light into every situation. 🙂
The “Broken window theory” of law enforcement stresses the need to prosecute those who commit minor crimes such as vandalism, public drinking, or graffiti in order to discourage the commission of future crimes…while creating an atmosphere of law and order. In other words, go after the smaller crimes to prevent the more serious ones from happening. This theory has not only been forgotten, there are now open-air drug markets consuming our cities and most crimes goes unpunished or they even fail to get investigated. This is a societal problem that few of us have the power to reverse or correct.
Police response times have been reduced considerably because more crimes are being committed, but there are fewer officers out there to respond to the calls for service. If you have had to call the police for any reason, you will agree with what I am saying. This blog is not designed to lay blame with anyone. I fully support law enforcement and always will. I believe there are some fantastic prosecutors out there who want to bring justice to the victims, but their hands are tied by evolving policies and political mandates. Change will only occur at the ballot box, but in the meantime…how can you keep yourself and your loved ones safe?
I sent my kids off to college and I sent them off with a sense of reality…not fear. They needed to know that there are really bad people in the world who care nothing about them, but would not hesitate victimizing them. I believe that following these rules greatly enhance your ability to stay safe. I encourage you to print them off, give them to your kids and others, have them study them…and most importantly have them practice them. Everybody thinks that bad things won’t happen to them, until bad things do happen to them!!! Don’t be a victim.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Always know where the exits are.
- Pick a seat where you can see the door in any bar or restaurant. You want to see who is coming and going.
- Never ever leave your drink unattended or with someone else. Take it with you!
- Alcohol inhibits and slows your thinking. Drink in moderation if you must drink.
- Walk with your head up high. Don’t look weak and like a potential victim.
- Eyes can’t hurt you…watch the hands of people you encounter. Those can hurt you.
- Used properly, a pencil or pen can be used as a weapon. Always have one on you.
- Try not to walk alone at night, regardless of where you are.
- Trust few people, but still verify.
- Always tell someone where you are going and when you should be back.
- If someone wants to rob you of your money, give it to them. If they try to force you to go with them, fight to the bitter end right there. Holler, scream, kick, and claw, but do NOT go with them!
- If your 6th sense is telling you something is wrong, it probably is. Listen to your gut.
- Be smart, make good decisions, and get home safely. Others love you and worry about you!