Transition areas - We go into, through, and out of them many times a day. It has become so routine that we don’t even think about it, and we become complacent thus, increasing the danger.
What is a transition area? Any place that allows a VCA (Violent Criminal Actor) to attack with an element of surprise and allows for an easy escape. They are uncontrolled spaces we must pass through when going from one relatively safe place to another relatively safe place. A transitional space could be a parking lot, a gas station, your driveway, your workplace entry, or even a sketchy part of town. Transitional spaces cannot be avoided and present an increased level of risk. Being aware of these increased dangers, and how to avoid them, can help keep you safe.
What can you do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe as you move through a transition area? Here are some suggestions:
1- When getting into or out of your vehicle, your attention is generally focused on the vehicle and not your surroundings. Many folks spend a lot of time (30-60 seconds) with the door open while ‘futzing’ with their stuff. Lock your door as soon as you get in your car and when you get out don’t have your hands full of stuff/valuables.
2- Paying attention to your surroundings may get you ‘deselected' as a victim. Stay off your cell phone. Keep your head up and look around. Wait until you get into a safer area before you check your shopping list.
3- Be a ‘non-target’. Look around and identify bad guys, suspicious persons, danger areas. VCA choose victims based on their awareness (or ‘non-awareness’) level.
There are four main areas to focus on in keeping yourself safe in transitional areas:
Reconnaissance Before Entering a Transitional Space
Awareness is critical. The more aware we are of our environment, the earlier we can spot a potential problem developing.
The biggest issue with most people is task fixation in public venues or allowing ourselves to become overly distracted by tasks we feel we have to perform.
Managing Unknown Contacts
A common criminal assault tactic is to close distance with the intended victim through a ruse - “Hey man, you got a dollar?” or, “Hey man, you know what time it is?” Sometimes such behavior is a ploy to distract you so that the unknown contact can get within striking distance.
Street people rely on the transitional space to provide the opportunity to intercept potential victims. Most will try to hit you up for money, but there is a dangerous criminal element that will use similar tactics to close the distance.
Move Quickly and With Purpose
The less time spent in a transitional space, the better.
When crossing a parking lot, a parking garage, or other such transient space, do so quickly – don’t dither!
Moving quickly can often give you the ability to get past someone who may be trouble. Moving quickly from the beginning shows that you may be in a rush.
Have your verbal barrier ready – “Sorry sir, I can’t help you.” – maintain eye contact, and move on.
Always Have Tools
Your defensive tools are more important in transitional spaces than almost anywhere else. These include flashlights, Munio/Kubotan, pepper spray, and firearms.
Carrying a defensive handgun may seem ideal, but there are environments where you can’t be armed with a firearm, so be armed with something.
If possible, have OC Spray, a flashlight, or an impact weapon, available for when you leave the office to go to your car.
OC spray is especially advantageous in transitional spaces. Pepper spray can be carried in your hand as you walk to your destination or vehicle, and it does not raise alarms.
‘Tactical’ flashlights (small, high lumen lights) are extremely useful and non-threatening.
Transition areas will always offer a challenge to your safety. However, we do have to continue to negotiate them in our everyday life and therefore must maintain a higher level of awareness and readiness when we do so.
BE SAFE. BE EFFECTIVE. BE READY.
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