Barrington Ridge HOA

The Kansas City Police Department has recently updated the department’s website (www.kcpd.org). Take a look and check out the Chief’s Blog, the Shoal Creek Patrol Division, the boundaries of Shoal Creek, report drug houses and the new PDF “Safety Brochures”, plus much more. Our Community Interaction Officer is Markus Smith and he can be reached at 816-413-3440 or via email at markus.smith@kcpd.org. His April newsletter included the following information about personal safety.

Crime can occur anywhere at anytime to anyone. While all situations are different, our goal is to reduce the likelihood and effect of that crime.

1. Be Aware (of your surroundings)
*Plan ahead for where you are going. *Carry a cell phone
*Constantly assess situations as they develop. *Look for points of escape.
*Acknowledge the presence of a suspicious person. *Avoid preoccupation. (phone calls or texting)

2. Alert
*Predators will hunt in places where victims and opportunity regularly collide.
*Use the buddy system
*Demonstrate an alert, strong persona
*Scan the environment (Head high, Confident, Stand balanced on both feet, Keep hands out pockets)
*Be aware of cars that pull up to you or that pass you repeatedly.

3. Avoid
*Potential problem areas, secluded places where you can be put in a vulnerable position.
*The “No, not me” syndrome, “Know you (anyone) could become a victim”
*Don’t drink yourself into a loss of alertness
*Don’t leave your drinks (alcohol, soft drinks) unattended by you.

4. Action
*Understand your capabilities
*Use common sense
*Do NOT panic
*Take responsibility for your own safety *Be your own bodyguard
*Have a response ready prior to assailant contact. A challenging command may be enough.

Use the above prevention tips; develop a flexible plan of action; practice, practice, practice that plan; and your GOAL is that “YOU WILL SURVIVE”.