Welcome to Let’s Chat with Chaplain Steve, but today I don’t want to chat. I don’t feel like it. The truth is that the last few weeks has been very hard on a lot of people, and my heart hurts for the whole world in which we must live, but doubly so for the folks with whom I minister. For instance, recently, there was a senseless murder of a wonderful young lady, who simply went with a friend to a bar. Then a cousin of another young lady was shot 5 times because she fought back, screamed and ran when kidnappers were trying to take her. Another young lady was attacked by several people after someone spiked her drink at a party. A former boyfriend, but still close friend, of another young lady with whom I minister was killed while walking home from the store on the corner down the street. Please read the following list, commit it to memory, and practice it every day. It only takes one moment for your life to be over or to drastically change forever.
In General
- In the event of an emergency call 911.
- Evil people are looking for an opportunity. DON’T BE THE EASY PREY. Leaving your drink unattended for even a moment opens the door for it to be spiked with something. You can always get a new one.
- While in your car or leaving your car LOCK the doors. Double check your car before entering it. Park it in well lighted very open areas.
- Don’t go out alone at night. Travel with friends. Avoid people on the street who you feel might present a problem. Don’t let your inner kindness be what gets you hurt.
- Let people know where you are going, when you will be back, and who you will be with.
- If you are walking alone, walk with confidence and always keep moving. Do not wear headphones or chat on the phone. Don’t carry too many packages. Keep one hand free. (My wife will call me when she is walking alone - and we don’t say a thing.
- Use well lighted walkways, keep your purse under your arm and/or your wallet in your back pocket.
- Try to carry the minimum of cash and credit cards on your person. If you must use an Automated Teller Machine (ATM), select one located in a busy area.
- Walk in groups to the parking garage or to public transit.
Driving
10. When driving in the city, drive with your doors locked and windows up. Know in advance where you are going. Use a steering wheel lock or car alarm.
11. Park in well-lighted areas, don't leave packages or items visible within the car and double check your locks. Don’t keep things like purses or briefcases on the passenger seat.
12. Always have your keys handy. My wife will keep one key poking out from between her fingers to use as a handy weapon if needed.)
13. Check your front and back seat before you get in the car. Don’t pick up hitch-hikers or give rides to someone you don’t know well.
14. If a car bumps you from behind, be careful. Stay in your car and wait for the other person to get out of their car. If you sense suspicious behavior, pull away and call the police immediately. Carry a mobile phone.
15. When taking public transit, choose a seat near the bus driver or train conductor. Avoid isolated bus or train stops. Don’t fall asleep! Keep your belongings on your lap.
If Attacked
16. If you are physically attacked, kick, punch, pull hair, bite, poke eyes, yell and scream. The point is to either get away FAST or attract the attention of others.
17. No amount of property is as valuable as your life.
Always remember that my help, prayers and counsel is free and it never comes with strings attached. If you need me - call me, or shoot me a text or email. Until next time stay safe!
Blessings,
Chaplain Steve
470-328-1838
Chaplaincy is a permission-based employee benefit. If you wish to opt out of the weekly emails, simply reply STOP.
Comments
Post a Comment