The Town of Paradise Valley Advisory Committee on Public Safety (ACOPS), a group composed of volunteer residents bringing ideas to the police chief, offers suggestions to avoid becoming a victim through a variety of scenarios.

They call it their “Personal Protection Plan.”

In recent years, crime, including random public attacks, has increased in some major cities and in some less-populated areas. While Paradise Valley remains a safe place to live and visit, it’s essential to recognize that an isolated incident can happen anywhere. This is especially important when visiting areas where extra caution is needed. 

Situational awareness is critical for avoiding danger in today’s world. It’s not an innate ability but a skill that is developed through repetition, focus and consistent use. Simply put, it’s knowing what is going on around you when in public places.

ACOPS offers the following ways to improve situational awareness:

*Keep your head on a swivel: Constantly watch what is around you, 360 degrees.   

*Stay vigilant: Don’t let your mind wander.

*Keep eyes and ears open: Be alert to things that look or sound “different.” Don’t let your listening device block out all other sounds.  

*Avoid distractions: The biggest distraction of all is cell phones.

*Notice other people: Is there someone (or something) who looks “out of place” or whose behavior is suspicious?

*Don’t look like a victim: Reflect vigor, confidence and walk with a purpose.

*Stay under the radar: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or accessories that are visible.

*Trust your intuition: If you feel something is not right, change what you are doing; cross the street, turn around, or go into a store.    

*Have escape routes in case of trouble: For example, public places such as restaurants, retail stores, etc. often have secondary exits. Know where they are in case of an emergency and the primary exit gets blocked.

ACOPS offers the following safety tips for when you are in your car.

*Maintain your vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is always safe, with everything in proper working condition: tires, lights, fuel levels, etc.

*Be selective about travel: Choose when and where you travel wisely.

*Keep car doors locked and windows up. 

*Stay alert: Avoid using ear buds or reading your cell phone while in your car.

*Leave space: When stopping in traffic, leave at least two car lengths ahead in case you have to make a quick exit.

*Plan parking ahead: At night, park in well-lit areas and under a light.

*Have keys in hand: When returning to your car, have your keys ready; don’t unlock the car until you are there and lock all doors immediately after getting into the car.

*Program emergency numbers: Save them in your phone for quick access.

Getting the fundamentals squared away to the point of habit is the backbone of every personal protection plan. ACOPS encourages everyone to “stay safe out there.”