Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Personal Safety


It is the mission of the Richland County Sheriff's Department to improve the quality of life for ALL citizens.  As your Sheriff, I have made it my duty to build unity between the Sheriff's Department and the community; joining our high standards of excellence with our vision for safer communities. 

Staying safe should be a priority for everyone. However, busy schedules, time constraints and routines often result in us providing criminals opportunities to make us victims. I hope that by giving you tips that can help you avoid becoming a victim of crime when you are at home, out and about, or at work will help to keep you and your loved ones safe.
 

Personal Protection:

 
·         Don’t think that that it can’t happen to you.                                       

·         Always be aware of your surroundings, who’s in front of you and who’s behind you. Don’t get distracted.

·         Walk purposefully, stand tall, and make eye contact with people around you.

·         Stay Alert!

·         Make yourself a “tough target.”

·         Should you resist? Everyone and every situation are different.

·         Trust your instincts! If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave!

·         If being followed or stalked, call 911 or drive directly to a police station. 

  

If You're Attacked


·         Keep your head. Stay as calm as possible and evaluate your options and resources.

·         It may be more advisable to submit than to resist and risk severe injury or death. You will have to make this decision based on the circumstances. 

·         Keep assessing the situation as it is happening. If one strategy doesn't work, try another. Possible options include negotiating, stalling for time, distracting the assailant and fleeing to a safe place, verbal assertiveness, screaming, and physical resistance.

·         You may be able to turn the attacker off with unusual behavior such as throwing up, acting crazy, or stating you have a sexually transmitted disease.  

 

As your Sheriff, I am always looking for ways to protect citizens in our communities. One of the ways that I can do this is by providing training and awareness to you FREE of charge. For example; to reduce the possibility of women being victimized, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) offers a Women’s Self Defense Class. This is a crime prevention program that utilizes techniques that are specifically designed to empower women to recognize their strengths and make sound decisions when faced with potentially dangerous situations.

Sergeant Maria Yturria is one of a few Hispanic female Deputies with the RCSD and helps run the Self Defense course. She also acts as a liaison to educate the Hispanic community about the programs we offer, including the women's self defense class. "I use my background to go out and communicate with other Hispanic community liaisons. I am also part of various organizations to network in the immigrant communities."

I am proud of all of our Deputies’ efforts and dedication to protect and serve the people of Richland County through education and awareness.

The next FREE Women's Self Defense Class is scheduled for  October 6, 2012 from 10:30am - 2:30pm at 430 Polo Rd. Polo Recreation Center. To register contact Diana (803) 446-8605. For more information- including a class schedule-  visit our website at www.rcsd.net and click on the link at the bottom of the homepage.

By taking a few simple precautions, you can discourage criminals and reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

If we all remain alert and are aware of what is going on around us, we are less likely to be a target. Being prepared and taking a proactive approach can mean the difference between staying safe or being a potential victim.

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