How to Conduct a Personal Security Assessment: A Guide for Protecting Yourself and Your Family

At Sentinel Combatives, we believe that personal security is not just about reacting to threats but being proactive in identifying and mitigating risks before they become problems. Whether you're concerned about your daily commute, the safety of your home, or your family's overall preparedness, a personal security assessment is a critical first step in creating a safer environment.

In this blog post, I'll walk you through the steps of conducting a personal security assessment. This is a practical guide for anyone looking to take their safety seriously, from beginners to seasoned individuals.

Step 1: Understand Your Environment

Your first task is to get a comprehensive understanding of your environment. This means taking stock of where you live, work, and travel. Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the crime rate in your neighborhood?
• Are there specific threats in your area, such as gang activity, natural disasters, or a history of home invasions?
• What security measures do your workplace and school have in place?

Understanding your environment is crucial because it sets the stage for the rest of your assessment. This knowledge will inform the types of security measures you need to consider.

Step 2: Assess Physical Security

Once you've familiarized yourself with your environment, it's time to look at your physical security. This includes everything from your home to your vehicle. Here’s how to assess your physical security:

• Home Security:
  • Doors and Windows: Are your doors solid, and do they have deadbolt locks? Are your windows secured and have secondary locking mechanisms?
  • Lighting: Is your property well-lit at night? Criminals prefer to operate in the dark.
  • Alarm Systems: Do you have an alarm system, and is it functioning properly? Consider systems with cameras and remote monitoring.
  • Landscaping: Is your landscaping designed to reduce hiding spots for potential intruders?
• Vehicle Security:
  • Locks and Alarms: Are your vehicle’s locks and alarms in working order?
  • Situational Awareness: Do you park in well-lit areas? Do you check your surroundings before exiting or entering your vehicle?
• Workplace Security:
  • Access Control: Does your workplace have access control measures like key cards or biometric scanners?
  • Emergency Plans: Are there established emergency protocols at your workplace? Do you know the escape routes?

Step 3: Evaluate Digital Security

In our interconnected world, digital security is just as important as physical security. Assess your digital presence by considering the following:

• Passwords: Are your passwords strong, unique, and updated regularly? Use a password manager to keep track. We recommend Bitwarden.
• Two-Factor Authentication: Do you use two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts?
• Social Media: Are you cautious about what you share on social media? Avoid posting personal details that could be used against you.
• Secure Networks: Do you use secure, encrypted networks when accessing sensitive information?

Step 4: Review Your Daily Habits

Your daily routines and habits can either enhance or diminish your personal security. Consider the following:

• Situational Awareness: Do you maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar environments?
• Travel Routes: Do you vary your travel routes to avoid predictability?
• Meeting Strangers: Are you cautious when meeting new people, especially from online platforms?
• Home Safety: Do you have a plan for answering the door, especially when home alone?

Step 5: Family Emergency Preparedness

Family safety requires a collective effort. Here’s how to ensure your loved ones are prepared:

• Emergency Plans: Have you created and practiced an emergency plan for scenarios like fire, break-ins, or natural disasters?
• Communication Plans: Do you have a communication plan in place in case of an emergency? Ensure everyone knows how to contact each other.
• First Aid and CPR: Are you and your family members trained in first aid and CPR?
• Safe Room: Do you have a designated safe room or safe area in your home where your family can retreat in case of a threat?

Step 6: Continuous Improvement

Personal security is not a one-time task but a continuous process. Regularly review and update your security measures as your circumstances or the threat landscape changes. Stay informed about new security technologies and techniques.

At Sentinel Combatives, we advocate for taking a proactive approach to security. By conducting a thorough personal security assessment, you’re not only protecting yourself but also ensuring the safety and well-being of your loved ones.

Remember, security is a mindset, and it starts with you.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and take control of your security today!

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to ensuring your personal safety and that of your family. For more tips, training, or to schedule a personal consultation, contact us at Sentinel Combatives. We're here to help you every step of the way.