Sep 16 2009
A Great Safety Tip!
Do you have a “Distress Code?” In the event you are in a situation where you can’t “talk” but need to communicate that you are in a dire situation, devising a “Distress Code” could save your life!
Choose a distress code word or phrase and share it with your colleagues, friends and family – anyone you might call if you feel that you are in danger. Your distress code should be easy to remember and something that will not alert your “distressor.” Examples of distress codes: “Hi, this is Jane. I’m at [address]. Could you look up something in the RED FILE for me?” It’s a good idea to have everyone in your office share a single distress code. Share and practice your distress code with your office, your colleagues, and your family and friends. It’s best to have several people prepped and ready to receive a call with your distress code. At your pre-arranged signal, they will know to call 9-1-1 on your behalf, or, after asking a few careful questions, can arrange to meet you so that you are not alone, or call you back and ask you to return to the office to respond to an “emergency situation.”
When should you use the distress code? In situations where you are uneasy, but do not feel you are in danger. If you are in immediate danger, leave the area. Also, don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.
Source: Washington Real Estate Safety Council
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