Wired for the Worst: Situational awareness can help you avoid danger

By Sally McGinty

Portage County is a good place to live, and most residents feel very safe living here. Even in a relatively safe community, however, a few simple habits can reduce risk and help people respond more quickly when something seems wrong.

Situational awareness can help you avoid danger.

Situational awareness means paying attention to what is happening around you, recognizing potential threats and knowing how you could respond to stay safe.

Five basic habits can improve your situational awareness:

• Know the threats and hazards.
• Stay alert and aware.
• Identify entry and exit points.
• Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position.
• Trust your gut/intuition.

Know the hazards and threats around you. Several have been highlighted in this series of columns. For more information about local risks, visit the county hazard mitigation plan. Before traveling, research your destination and monitor weather forecasts while you are there.

Stay alert. Electronic devices can make it easy to tune out your surroundings. Notice how often people run with headphones or walk while absorbed in a phone conversation.

If something seems out of place, do not ignore it. Report an unattended package or bag to the appropriate authorities.

The Department of Homeland Security’s “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign encourages people to report suspicious activity to state and local law enforcement.

Identify entry and exit points. Your family may already have discussed how to leave your home quickly in a fire.

When you enter another building or public space, take a quick look for the nearest exits so you can leave promptly during an emergency.

Avoid putting yourself in a vulnerable position. Limit alcohol consumption, be cautious about whom you trust and, when possible, stay with other people rather than going alone.

Trust your instincts. If a situation feels wrong, leave. If someone nearby makes you feel unsafe, move to a safer place or call for help.

Situational awareness should be part of your everyday routine. You should be alert to potential danger, even in environments where you feel very comfortable, like your home or workplace.

These habits also support a broader goal: being prepared before an emergency occurs. September is National Preparedness Month, and this year’s theme is “Americans Stand Ready,” aligning with the United States’ 250th birthday celebration.

National Preparedness Month encourages Americans to take four practical steps:

• Make a plan — know where to go if your home is no longer safe and how your family will communicate.
• Be in the know — sign up for local mass notification systems (Portage County Community Alert).
• Build a kit — gather basic items your household would need in the event of an emergency, such as a flashlight, first aid kit and weather radio.
• Be there for your community — learn CPR or first aid, volunteer and check on your neighbors.

For more preparedness guidance, visit Ready.gov and ReadyWisconsin.