KCRAR held a special self-defense class earlier this month for REALTOR® Safety Month. Steve Woolridge, who holds a first-degree black belt in Krav Maga, taught a classroom of over 50 REALTORS® hands-on skills they can use if they’re ever in a crisis situation. In addition to those skills, Woolridge emphasized a number of best practices to keep safe when on the job as an agent.
Be aware, but not paranoid. Woolridge said agents should always be aware of their surroundings so they can take notice of anything abnormal. This could mean keeping their heads up, and not looking down at their phones in situations when someone could approach them. He advised presenting yourself with confidence.
Follow safe protocols. Woolridge said agents should always let someone else know where they are going and when they expect to be back. He said to meet clients first in office before meeting them at properties. He recommended that agents not fully turn their backs to their clients when opening lockboxes and to allow clients to walk ahead of them, especially up and down stairs.
Have a “go home safe” attitude. One of the biggest points Woolridge stressed is that agents need to have a shift in mindset so that they are always prepared for what to do in a crisis.
Train. Woolridge suggested taking self-defense classes if possible, but that training physically by exercising is always a good idea.
