Workplace Safety: A Martial Arts Instructor's Reaction to the Oikos University Shooting

In my very first blog, ever, just last week, I introduced myself and said this…” This blog will be dedicated to keeping you, and your family S.A.F.E. and healthy, I will be sharing tips for personal, home, and work place safety, as well as nutrition and health.”

Boy, what a week its been!! Little did I suspect that I would be POST actively sharing information.

I am not often lost for words, but I almost don’t know what to say about the events of this past week’s school shooting, a man on a mission is very hard to stop, and without knowing the circumstances of what transpired, its impossible to evaluate what “could” have been done,… “if” there was that one single split second chance of restraining and controlling the situation.

I wish I had more information to share, I’m stumped! How do you train for, or even THINK of a scenario like this one???

Here is a list of things to keep in mind, for general workplace safety.

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), 2 million Americans will fall victim to some variety of violence in the workplace every single year. OSHA defines workplace violence as any violence or threat of violence on a person in their place of employment. With many office shootings and other attacks occurring in the past year, businesses big and small are becoming increasingly concerned with preventing workplace violence.

• Keep vehicle doors locked—both while driving and whenever you leave the vehicle.
• If you are walking, choose busy, well-lit areas.
• Walk like you know where you’re going. Act comfortable with, and familiar in, your surroundings.
• Make friendly eye contact with people near you.
• Check the personal space around you to be alert for muggers or others who could threaten your safety.
• If you feel that your personal space is being invaded or that you are being followed, go into a well-lit, busy store.
• Carry only the amount of money you need.
• Divide any valuables you’re carrying into different pockets, money pouches, etc.
• Carry visible items, such as purses, briefcases, or computers, close to your body to deter robbers from snatching and running.
• Finally, check your vehicle before entering it. Make sure no one is hiding under or inside it.

You also need to be able to protect yourself if you are confronted by a violent person. Remember these simple tips:

• In case of a mugging or theft where personal property is at stake and the assailant does not intend to do physical harm, don’t resist. Give over your valuables and let the person go.
• However, in cases of physical assault or kidnapping, try to fight the assailant off or scream for help.
• Immediately report the incident to the proper authorities. Answer questions from investigators as thoroughly as possible.
• If you’re physically injured, don’t clean up or change clothes until you’ve had a medical examination.

Finally, deal with your emotional as well as physical well-being after the incident. Don’t ignore or stifle stressful or fearful feelings associated with the event. Avail yourself of professional assistance if you feel the need.

Stay S.A.F.E Survey Avoid Flee Engage