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See our Training Schedule here

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Consider pre-translating these words and phrases, but also consider what you are doing (your task or event) and where (hotel, restaurant, entertainment venue, etc.) to add some more things to this list:

• Hello
• Goodbye
• Yes
• No
• Please
• Thank you
• Good morning
• Good afternoon
• Good evening
• How are you?
• My name is ____
• What is your name?
• Nice to meet you
• Sorry / Excuse me
• Can you help me please?
• Do you speak English?
• Restroom / Bathroom / Toilet
• Left
• Right
• Straight
• Exit
• Numbers 1-10

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Bonus tip – when you translate these, use a translator app that pronounces the words for your as well.

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Also, for work but also for personal travel, I recommend pre-translating the words your will need in an emergency. Here are some considerations:

• Emergency:
• Intersection:
• Ambulance:
• Hospital:
• Police:
• Fire:
• Pharmacy:
• Embassy:

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Bonus tip – know the correct emergency number, globally – Click Here

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Security Expert Witness Testimony, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.

Drive with your headlights on to improve visibility both ways

Avoid using cruise control – in adverse conditions, you want control

Be cautious on bridges, overpasses, etc. – they might be icy even if the roads are not

Avoid passing snow plows and sand trucks – drivers have limited visibility and the road in front may be unsafe

Know and practice how to drive in winter conditions – like braking on ice

Defensive & Evasive Driving Course

Properly warm-up your vehicle

Winter Tires – Do not wait to get them, they are amazing in winter conditions

Windshield Wipers – Ensure they are winter rated and serviceable

Know your car – every car is different: 4 wheel drive, traction control, stability control, etc.

Clean off the entire car – not only for your visibility but for the vehicles behind you

Executive Protection Training Program
Protective Fundamentals, Medical Response, Evasive Driving
Hotel, most meals and all materials are included

Ensure exhaust pipe is clear – a clogged tailpipe can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning

Keep your gas tank as close to full as possible – tank/lines may develop freeze points if not full

Make sure you have an appropriate winter emergency kit:

In addition to your typical vehicle emergency kit, here’s what you’ll need:

• Two or more blankets and extra clothing
• Snow shovel and scraper
• High calorie, non-perishable food/snacks.
• Bags of sand or even strips of carpet for added traction when stuck
• Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze

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Preventative maintenance, checks and services (PMCS)  – Get them done!:

Check the following: (Our students will remember T-FOLDE)

• Air pressure in the tires and tire condition/suitability (do you need winter tires?)
• Fuel system and lines for cracks, etc.
• Fluid levels (Antifreeze and proper grade oil)
• Battery, Lights and Ignition system
• Wiper blades and windshield washer fluid
• Defroster operational?
• Cooling system for fluid levels and no leaks

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When driving in winter conditions, do everything slowly – your speed will compound the problem, speed limits are for dry roads.

Lastly, if you can avoid driving in bad conditions do so – just because you are safe and prepared, it does not mean the others on the road will be also. Inform someone of your travel plans if you do travel in poor conditions.

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The three P’s of Safe Winter Driving
from NHTSA and OSHA:
PREPARE for the trip by maintaining your car and planning your route; PROTECT yourself by buckling up and having the necessary equipment; and PREVENT crashes on the road by driving safely and slowly.

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1. IPAK (Individual Protective Agent’s Kit)

/ipak-individual-protective-agents-kit/

The Individual Protective Agent’s Kit with QuikClot® & SWAT-T® is designed to assist in controlling massive hemorrhaging at the point of wounding to bridge the gap until advanced care can be provided. Designed with consideration of the average task, threat and environment of executive, VIP & celebrity protection agents, this compact and durable kit allows protective operations specialists to keep an immediately accessible trauma kit on their person where it is needed most without the tactical look or excessive size of a full kit.

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2. Apple Watch 

https://www.apple.com/watch/

We have conducted our own extensive testing and published a review of the watch. To read more about how the watch can benefit a security professional, read more here: /apple-watch-review/

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3. Benchmade Triage EDC Knife

https://www.benchmade.com/triage-family.html

With a built-in rescue hook/seatbelt cutter and window breaker, this knife has a lot more functionality than most considering it already has the Benchmade name to boast. The Triage is a great, mid-sized, lightweight but durable EDC utility knife. With the extra features and legendary Benchmade quality and warranty, it has become my new go-to daily carry pocket knife. For more options, check out our other article on EDC Knives – /edc-fixed-blade-options/

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4. ResQMe Escape Tool with Keychain and Visor mount

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00CBDIJ98/?coliid=IOT7ZVHFGTIO5&colid=T8XCMI0M0B5Z&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Break out side window glass in an instant; slash through inoperable seat belts without fear of getting cut – These are all quick, safe and easy to do in an emergency with this handy tool. Keep it accessible on your keys or on the visor of your vehicle.

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5. Rite-In-The-Rain Notebooks

https://www.riteintherain.com/

Rite-In-The-Rain notebooks defy nature, they are weatherproof and can even be written on underwater. A phenomenal gift which will sure to spend a lot of time in the pocket of your security professional.

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6. Henry Holsters AIWB / IWB Series

https://www.henryholsters.com/

The Spark (light bearing) and Flint holsters are minimalist, fold-over style holster that attaches with two snap loops. There are various options for loops and clips, but we always like the Discreet Carry Concepts metal spring clips. The Concealment Kick on the back of the holster both tips the muzzle out away from body and rotates the grip in towards the user’s hip, improving concealment. Holsters for the X300, TLR1, TLR7, TLR8 and APLc have adjustable retention which can be fine tuned by the pair of screws next to the light-channel..

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7. Smith Optics Elite Sunglasses

https://www.smithoptics.com/us/Root/Men%27s/Sunglasses/Elite-Tactical/c/1140

Smith Optics have unparalleled optical quality in the polarized ChomaPop lenses, couple that with the durability and protection of ANSI Z87.1+ and you will have a new set of go-to glasses. Pick the style and be sure they will enjoy this gift all year round.

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8. Zebra Pens

https://www.zebrapen.com/product/f-701-ball-point-retractable/

The 7-Series of the Steel Family offers a premium writing experience. The F-701 Ballpoint Retractable Pen is designed for the serious communicator looking to embody their personal style in their writing instrument. Features designer stainless steel tip, barrel and clip and a knurled metal grip for writing confidence. Refillable with premium F refill.

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9. Backup Battery and Jumper

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07DWSYYZR/?coliid=I3BF9U870ITBNW&colid=T8XCMI0M0B5Z&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

A backup battery jumper will certainly give your security professional enough power to keep their electronics charged up and can even jump start a car battery. This jump starter with 2000A peak current & 20800 mAh capacity, it can start up to 8.0L gas engine or 6.5L diesel engine. The newest intelligent protection clamps with a LED screen that can easily show different status and comes equipped with smart charging port that provides the fastest charging speed than normal charging port.

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10. Streamlight Macrostream EDC Flashlight 

https://www.streamlight.com/products/detail/index/macrostream-usb

The Microstream USB is a compact Lithium ion battery powered flashlight designed for use in all markets. It features a tail cap switch, momentary or constant on operation, high and low beams, a combination pocket/hat clip for convenience, and amazing brightness and run time for a light of its size and price. The aluminum housing with Type II Military Spec anodizing helps make the light extremely durable and abrasion resistant. To charge the light, slide the head cover forward to expose the micro USB port.

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Thanks for reading!
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And of course, you can always give the best present of all…TRAINING!

9 Day Executive Protection / Bodyguard Training
Hotel, Most Meals & All Materials Included

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The first thing to discuss is an appropriate pack. When image is not of concern, I prefer my North Face Recon backpack in which I did a separate review available here: TNF Recon Review

The main points of this pack include well thought out placement and size of pockets, (some with fleece lining for electronics), a protected laptop pouch, along with the comfort, quality and warranty which come from a TNF product.

Planning a Trip? Security & Other Tips for Traveling Abroad

In the pack, I always carry a laptop with accessories to include: charging accessories, mouse/pad, and a thumb drive. While we are on electronics I like to include the charging accessories for my mobile along with a dash mount in the easy to access top pouch. This makes for easy access when on the road or on the flight. The charging accessory I prefer is an extremely versatile wall and vehicle type with two usb ports. In this pouch I also keep headphones, a microfiber cloth and chapstick as anyone who spends a lot of time on flights will understand.

Travel Tips From Elijah Shaw

• Roll don’t fold – This technique works well for me in terms of maximizing space and getting the least amount of wrinkles on the garments.
• Keep it simple — If you are required to wear a suit on a multi day trip, don’t think multiple suits (which are going to take up a lot of space, instead pack the minimal amount and instead focus on packing fresh shirts and ties.  Also a helpful space saver hint is that you can ask the drycleaner to box your shirts as opposed to getting them back on a wire hanger.
• Think modular — My optimal setup consists of a large suitcase (checked baggage) a duffle bag (checked or carry on optional) and a backpack/sling bag (carry on) that’s three pieces. With that said, unless I’m at capacity, each of my pieces can fit inside the other saving space.
• Build your “GO bag” around your medical kit — I personally like to have a compact but robust kit in my GO bag so it will take up a bit of space, I make that my CenterPoint and then fit in my other essentials around it.  In most environments the likelihood of you/your client having a medical emergency is much greater than getting in a shootout (or repelling from a building for those of you that pack grappling hooks.
• The rule of Two — Remember when packing your GO Bag on a Close Protection assignment that you are not just packing for yourself, but for your Protectee as well.  Long day in the field and decided to pull out an energy bar for some nourishment?  Better have two, one for yourself, and one for your client if they ask.  Same with water, hand sanitizer, and even phone charging cords.
• Luggage Tags with identifiers are a life saver. – If I’m moving with my Protectee, often times we are not waiting for the luggage but bypassing baggage claim and heading straight to the vehicle.  Luggage will then be picked up by one of the client’s staff, or an assignment member of the Security Detail.  Having an easily identifiable numbered tag makes it simple for whoever is picking up the luggage.  “Two bags marked 019”.  That also makes life easier when instructing a hotel bellman which rooms to deliver the bags to.
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Elijah Shaw, CEO of ICON is an active Security Consultant who spends over 70% of the year traveling with his clients domestically as well as internationally. 

The other necessities are in the second largest compartment of the pack, easy to get to and organized within the built in features of the pack. These items are additional charging accessories including a small power pack and a PowerAll, radio with extra battery, ear piece and charger, an additional IPAK (link below), bandaids, miscellaneous OTC meds (pain, allergy, motion sickness) and cosmetics (toothbrush/paste, deodorant) in a small personal case, 2x smoke masks (breath of life), CPR pack with gloves and barrier device, miscellaneous pens/pencils and note taking gear, batteries, and whatever else I can think of which would be suitable to the task, threat and environment.

Great gear: noise canceling ear phones, headphones (pictured) are great too, but bulky and an inflatable neck pillow is a great comfort item as well.

In the outer compartment, I keep a hat and gloves with hand sanitizer and napkins in a side pouch, with the other left available for a water bottle. The hand sanitizer and napkins may sound silly to those who have not carried them before, but give it a try and see how many times they will save the day.

A tip I learned from traveling to Mexico – If you can’t trust drinking the water, avoid washing your hands with it as well. Rule of thumb: if your hands are ‘soiled’ wash them, if your hands are ‘germy’ use sanitizer.

For the main compartment, I fill it with two changes of clothes and of course some ‘comfies’ for rack time. The method of packing comes with a need for minimizing space, minimizing effect and wrinkles on the clothes and minimizing time.

The way I do it is a ‘combat role’ method, as seen in the pictures above. You simply lay out the outfit, folded long ways, then roll it up. This makes for a compact but effective way of filling a small pack. If you require more than a couple of outfits or more than one outfit and a suit, a full garment bag is recommended.

Tips to minimize your packing list and helpful hints:

• If possible, select shoes that fit all occasions – shows are hard to pack and take up a lot of space.
• Plan your attire with consistency in accessories – this avoids taking multiple/different color belts, shoes, ties, etc.
• Wear a reversible belt to avoid taking two.
• Select your luggage carefully – plan for enough space and potentially more along the trip.
• Pack with a consideration for what you will need and when you will need it – this reduces unpacking everything at each stop.
• Plan for laundry and bring a large ZipLoc, or two – planning laundry will reduce the amount of clothes you need to bring and a large ZipLoc for dirty clothes is an amazing thing. They require negligible space and weight, so bring two.
• Fill space wherever you can – socks in shoes is a great example of how to do this as this maintains shape of the shoe as well.

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.

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As per the TSA, you are allowed to travel with unloaded firearms as long as they are in a locked hard-sided container and included in a checked bag. The container must be inaccessible when locked, meaning it cannot be easily pried opened. Contact the TSA Contact Center with any questions. You may not carry on a firearm, or any part of a firearm, or ammunition. The hard case that I use is featured in the link below; I prefer the combo lock so I do not have to maintain a key, with the possibility of losing it.

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Stack-On PC-95C Portable Case with Combination Lock, Black

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Traveling with a Firearm

The first step is to ensure you comply with the laws in the state(s) traveling to.  Concealed Carry Laws by State – LaSorsa & Associates – Executive Protection – Training – Consulting – Investigations

Then ensure the firearm is packed correctly, unloaded and locked in a hard case which is in a bag that is going to be checked, not carried on. (Passenger retains the key or combo) Ensure that you declare the firearm at the ticket counter as soon as you present the bag. I usually do this by showing my concealed carry permit along with my driver’s license and say that “it is in the checked bag”; this is to eliminate verbalizing that I have a gun in my bag in front of everyone who may be on my flight. Correctly complete the firearm declaration card, signing that the firearm is unloaded and place in the bag. Tip: I keep a large rubber-band around my hard case (shown/linked above so I can affix the card to the case as to avoid it getting lost in the bag) Additionally, you should lock the checked bag with a TSA approved lock. Read the regulations here: USC, Title 18, Part 1, Chapter 44 49 CFR 1540.5

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Travel Tips Video: Traveling with Firearms

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Note: If a ticket counter agent requests you to show them the firearm is unloaded – request a manager or TSA agent as it is unlawful to handle a firearm in an airport – this is why a chamber flag or gun lock is recommended as it nullifies the need to handle the weapon. The ticket counter agents may misinterpret the rules on ‘verifying the weapon is unloaded.’ It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure the weapon is unloaded.

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TASER Laws and Restrictions by State

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Executive Protection / Bodyguard Training Program
Protective Fundamentals, Medical Response, Evasive Driving,
Hotel, most meals and all materials are included

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Traveling with Ammunition

Ammunition is also prohibited in carry-on baggage and must be securely packed in boxes or other packagings specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition and placed in a checked bag. Firearm magazines must be securely boxed or included within a hard-sided case containing an unloaded firearm. I would highly recommend unloading the magazine as well – this reduces the chance of trouble if you get a TSA agent who may misinterpret what is a part of the firearms vs a magazine. Airlines dictate the amount of ammunition that can be included in your checked bag. The most common amount is a maximum of 11 pounds (5 kgs) per container or customer, such as American Airlines regulations say, but you should check with your airline.

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The image above was when I was packing up for the executive protection training program in Miami last November, and yes that is a week’s worth of clothes in an assault pack. The unloaded pistol was put into a hard case with the magazine. The ammunition was properly cased but not included in the same hard case as the firearm in this instance. I highly recommend a small ammo case, like the MTM Case Gard Ammo Wallet. Referencing the featured image at the top: No, the multi tool does not need to go in the lock box but I have had several go ‘missing’ over the past couple of years and they seem to leave it alone if put in the lock box. I also use a chamber flag which ensures the weapon is unloaded and requires no manipulation to ensure it is unloaded. Note: TSA regs printed out and folded in the holster – which is also highly recommended to do.

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MTM 18 Rounds 44 Cal Case-Gard Ammo Wallet (Clear Smoke)

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Retrieving Your Firearm Bag

Different airlines and airports have different protocols on how they mark your bag once it is declared to have a firearm. Take notice of how it is done upon check-in and ask if unsure. Also, different airlines and airports have different protocols on how you retrieve your bag upon arrival. Sometimes it is as normal, and most of the time you will be required to show ID to pick up your bag in a designated area. Ask an attendant if you are not sure about that specific airline or airport’s procedures.

TSA Regs Link: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition

Transporting Firearms and Ammunition

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephalasorsa

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Sign your passport, and fill in the emergency information:
Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa if required, also fill in the emergency information page of your passport or add another page if desired.

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Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program:
You may elect to let the State Department aware of your travel plans through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free online service at https://travelregistration.state.gov. This will help them contact you if there is a family emergency in the U.S., or if there is a crisis where you are traveling. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts will not be released to others without your express authorization. The Department of State also has a Smart Traveler smartphone app: https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/rls/dos/165020.htm

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Packing Tricks & Travel Tips – LaSorsa & Associates – Executive Protection – Training – Consulting – Investigations

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Check for and Monitor Updated Travel Warnings & Alerts
The US Department of State publishes travel warnings and alerts that you to consider very carefully if you are going to a country in question.Travel Alerts & Warnings are published for events such as election seasons, unstable governments, planned demonstrations, health alerts, increased crime/violence or an elevated risk of terrorist attack.

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Click here for an
Interactive International Travel Risk Map
to Assess Your Travel

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Leave copies of itinerary and passport data page:
Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page and visas with trusted contacts so you can be contacted in case of an emergency.

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Check your overseas medical insurance coverage:
Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation. If it does not, consider supplemental insurance.

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Executive Protection Travel Pack: Things to Consider – LaSorsa & Associates – Executive Protection – Training – Consulting – Investigations

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Familiarize yourself with local conditions and laws:
While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. The State Department web site at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html has useful safety and other information about the countries you will visit. Check the Overseas Security Council for travel warnings-
https://www.osac.gov/

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Consider an International Driving Permit
Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally, and most countries recommend one. Fines for driving without an IDP can be quite costly. Check countries requirements before travel. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue an IDP: International Driving Permit. An IDP also serves as a valid form of identification in 150 countries worldwide and contains your name, photo and driver information. It translates your identification information into 10 languages — so it speaks the language even if you don’t.

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Go Incognito When Researching Flights
Whenever you visit airline or flight booking websites, they track your cookies and how many times you search for a particular flight on their site. They will then hike up the flight price because they know it is of high interest to you. The only way to combat this is to browse in private or incognito mode. This will save you hundreds of dollars! – tip from Martin

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Take precautions to avoid being a target of crime:
Keep a low profile but do not travel alone and avoid identifying yourself as a traveler, especially as an American. To avoid being a target of crime, do not wear conspicuous clothing or jewelry.

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This map shows the most dangerous countries in the world for tourists

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Be aware of what may get you detained or arrested in another country and know what to do if it happens: 
One of the highest priorities of the Department of State and the individual U.S. embassies is to provide assistance to U.S. citizens incarcerated or detained in another country. The Department of State is ready to assist incarcerated or detained citizens in accordance with international law, as well as domestic and that foreign country’s laws.
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/emergencies/arrest.html

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Contact the State Department in an emergency:
Consular personnel at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad and in the U.S. are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens.
Contact info:
https://travel.state.gov
1-888-407-4747 – U.S. or Canada
202-501-4444 – Overseas

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Health, What You Need to Know in Advance of Travel:
All travelers should familiarize themselves with conditions at their destination that could affect their health (high altitude or pollution, types of medical facilities, required immunizations, availability of required pharmaceuticals, etc.). While some of this information may be found in the documents listed above, the key resource for health information is the Travelers’ Health page of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website at https://www.cdc.gov/travel The CDC website also provides general guidance on health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect-bite protection.

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Keep track of your flight arrangements, gate information and itinerary changes.
There are several apps you can use, such as FlightAware and FlightView. These apps (or their webpages) give you updated flight information. Another trick to this is to simply google your flight number and the updated information is presented, (results shown). FYI, this has been the method which has been the quickest in terms of updating gate information, etc. Also, FlySmart is a great app for finding what is available in airports, such as restaurants, shops and it also gives you a map of the airport.

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Sign up for Rewards Programs, VIP Lounge programs.
If you are a frequent flier, and/or plan on spending a lot of time in airports, frequent flier programs, like AAdvantage and lounge programs like LoungeClub, offer excellent rewards, free checked bags, free upgrades, additional privacy, increased security during layovers and much needed convenience which may be exceptionally useful, even if you would simply rather miss the traffic on the way to the airport and arrive early. Find the program that is most effective given your expected travel plans, most plans have websites or apps where you can find lounges at destination airports, compare rewards, etc.

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Sign up for TSA Pre-Check , Global Online Entry System (GOES), and CLEAR
These systems allow for reduced inspections and screenings through TSA security checkpoints and international check points as well, reducing the most stressful parts of airline travel. Pro tip: Enroll in Global Entry and get TSA Pre-Check automatically.

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Useful links:
https://travel.state.gov

https://www.osac.gov/

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/safety/road.html

https://trip.ustia.org/security/tips/

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Traveling with a Firearm: Everything you need to know to fly with a gun – LaSorsa & Associates – Executive Protection – Training – Consulting – Investigations

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmlasorsa

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Read the full article featured in The Circuit here: Residential Security Recommendations

For Security Consultant Training Course see here.

For most people, the consideration for an in home security system or at least some type of countermeasure derives from the concern for protecting themselves and their assets. Assets can be the valuable property within their home or apartment, or perhaps the most valuable property of all – their family. Given those considerations and the importance of protecting those assets, the residual risk equation of  R = T x A x V (where R is risk, T is threat, A is asset and V is vulnerability) the threat (likelihood of a break in in your neighborhood) is almost irrelevant as the asset is so important to you that you cannot accept any vulnerability and some sort of security countermeasure should be put in place. This is not to say that every American should welcome a door-to-door security salesman into their home and sign the first contract they are presented for a cookie- cutter security system – that is not at all what is recommended in most cases. In fact, given statistical analysis of break-ins across America as well as surveys of incarcerated burglars, the top two deterrents that kept criminals from burglarizing a home were general visibility (to include lighting) and sound (alarms, dogs, etc.)  Another strong form of deterrence is a sense of ownership and territorial reinforcement; so in a way the most inexpensive and unobtrusive piece to your home physical protection system is a proudly displayed American flag out front.

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My Front Door – Note Double Dead-Bolt near window and American Flag.

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Below are the most cost-effective methods to deter criminal acts and keep your assets safe.

1. Increase Deterrents

-Warning signs can be displayed around the perimeter of your home and property to warn intruders of what security treatments have been implemented to reduce opportunities for crime. If nothing else, the presentation of control is sometimes all that it takes to deter a criminal act.

-Security (motion) lighting can be installed around the perimeter of the property, particularly over access points, to provide more effective illumination during the hours of darkness; timers can be programmed to turn the lights on and off in a rational cycle when away for a prolonged period.

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 Motion Lighting

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-Contact sensors are also a useful tool as most would-be burglars visually check for them prior to a break in. Do-it-yourself kits can be inexpensively installed, and although they may not initiate emergency response (which is recommended they do), their presence and perceived capability to do so can deter a break in.

-Surveillance systems and home monitoring systems have the same effect and project the same “sphere of influence” around your property, defining what is yours, and deterring crime through the fear of being recorded with the additional fear of “what other systems do they have?”

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“I would kick in the door rather than break glass. Loud bangs are better than loud glass breaking, plus you run the risk of getting cut,” said one inmate. Read more: We asked 86 burglars how they broke into homes

2. Decrease Attractants

-Mail and newspaper deliveries can be stopped or arrangements made for a neighbor or friend to pick them up as to not give notice to a would-be burglar that you are out of town. The same goes for social media posts – wait until you return to post vacation pictures and do not post your plans prior to travelling.

-Bicycles, grills, lawn mowers, and other garden resources can be stored in a locked garage or shed, or if left out in the open they should be locked to an immobile fixture.

-Shrubs and trees can be pruned away from sidewalks, driveways, porches, doors, windows, and gates to eliminate hiding places and increase visibility to and from the street.

-If they must be there, bushes under windows can be pruned below the sills and tall bushes should be pruned from the ground up to expose feet and legs.

-Tree limbs and branches can be pruned upward at least six feet to open a clear field of view both onto and out from the property.

-Knowledge of who is home or away should not be discussed to strangers on the phone or otherwise.

-Overhanging branches can be trimmed to prevent burglars from using them to access other parts of the property, e.g. using a tree to get to an upper level of the house.

-Fences and gates should be see-through. Privacy fences provide privacy for residents AND burglars. Gaping wooden slats enhances visibility.

-Windows, fences and gates should be regularly maintained to maximize their effectiveness and ensure their good working order. Reduced maintenance elevates the risk for targeting.

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3. Access Point Hardening

-Strike plate mounting screws should be checked for solid engagement in the door frame and 3″ * screws should be used to mount the plate (*most plates come with 3/4″ screws; if 3″ does not fit, use the longest possible screw)

-Fences can be used to define the property boundaries and restrict access to the property.

-Consider the use of self-closing gates and lock sets.

-Ladders and other equipment that could be used for climbing should be secured.

-Gates, garage and shed doors should be locked after every use with a high security padlock with a protected shackle or a disc lock to hinder bolt cutters.

-All exterior doors should be solid core or metal cased, with deadbolt lock(s) keyed on both sides, reinforced strike plates, and guard plates to hinder prying.

-The garage door can be fitted with a strong security lock, preferably fixed into the floor.

-Any windows should be secured by a secondary lock, or a barrier in the window track.

-Extra keys are retained with a trusted neighbor and never hidden under a doormat or anywhere outside the house.

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Cyber Security 101: Securing Your Home

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-Breakable glass access points or within 40” (arm’s reach) of a lock or asset can be mitigated by the application of glass security laminates or break resistant glass. Additionally, a double sided deadbolt should be installed in these locations.

-Sliding glass doors need extra security against prying and lifting. A charley bar or an old broom handle can prevent opening. Three screws into the top track, backed out to just clear the top of the door, will prevent lifting.

-A safe must be selected based upon its intended function – a document safe is intended to protect against fire, a security safe is designed to protect valuables, etc. and should always be well concealed, fixed to the floor or embedded in foundations.

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Glass Break Detector

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4. Initiating & Enabling Emergency/Police Response

-The most effective aspect of a ‘monitored’ alarm system is it alerts your security company and emergency services of intrusions, fire, carbon monoxide, etc.

-Window break sensors (barometric, audio or shock) should be installed; while most criminals do break-in through a door, windows can also be used as a point of entry and are commonly used to unlock the door used for entry.

-Consider having a peephole or monitor installed on the front door to identify visitors at the door.

-The street number should be prominently displayed at the front of your home and visible at night and from a rear alley (if applicable) to enable emergency services to identify your home.

-Serial numbers of electronics such as flat screens, laptops, desktops, audio components, firearms, cellular devices, lawn equipment, bicycles and any other valuables with identifying numbers should be recorded. Take digital photographs of valuables, especially jewelry and collectibles without serial numbers.

-The whole family should be aware of what to during emergencies, break-ins, etc.

-Communication should be available in designated safe areas, safe rooms, etc. with emergency number and emergency contacts stored into the phone and/or written next to it.

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Window Contact Sensors in View

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If there are any questions regarding these recommendations, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to address your concerns, and answer any questions you may have about protecting your home.

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Click here to download as a PDF:
General Residential Security Recommendations

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Joseph M. LaSorsa, CPP® is currently employed as a senior partner managing and conducting: Protective Operations Training Courses, Executive Protection & Bodyguard Services, Risk Management Consultations & Seminars, Workplace Violence Prevention Seminars & Intervention Services, Security Consultations & Seminars, Private Investigations and Technical Surveillance Counter-Measures with LaSorsa & Associates – an International Protection, Investigations & Consulting Firm.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmlasorsa

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