Following a fabulous Conducting Open Houses and Developing a Safety Plan program yesterday, we thought we’d ask you … are you as safe as you could be?  It’s those few moments when we let our guard down that we open ourselves up to unexpected situations.  One, very quick, thing you can do is to follow the 10 Second Rule

Take 2 seconds when you arrive at your destination.

• Is there any questionable activity in the area?
• Are you parked in a well-lit, visible location?
• Can you be blocked by another vehicle?

Take 2 seconds after you step out of your car.

• Are there suspicious people around?
• Do you know exactly where you’re going?

Take 2 seconds as you walk toward your destination.

• Are people coming and going or is the area unusually quiet?
• Do you observe any obstacles or hiding places in the parking lot or along the street?
• Is anyone loitering in the area?

Take 2 seconds at the door.

• Do you have an uneasy feeling as you’re walking in?
• Is someone following you in?

Take 2 seconds as soon as you enter your destination.

• Does anything seem out of place?
• Is anyone present who shouldn’t be there or who isn’t expected?
• Make it a habit to employ the 10-Second Rule to increase awareness of your surroundings. It’s an invaluable tool that can help you stay safe.

And, as our instructor, Linda Kody mentioned yesterday – do it all in reverse as you leave your destination.  Don’t stop and ‘fuss’ in your vehicle.  Get in, lock the doors and take off.

The National Association published a great Article “Put Safety First By Asking Questions and Preparing in Advance” that we encourage you to read here.  This article includes some great, and simple, tricks to properly and safely prepare you to work with sellers and buyers.

If you haven’t already – take a moment to read Sandy Carroll’s post from earlier this month, which includes 5 steps you can include in your day to day, today!  Step up for Safety in September | BerkshireRealtors