For Open Houses:

1. Always talk with home owners about locking away all valuables before the open house begins.
2. REALTORS: Lock away your purses, wallets, and other valuables also. If locking up in your car, hide or cover so items are not viewable by passersby.
3. Know the floor plan of the home (and all possible escape routes).
4. Unlock all of the deadbolts (for quick exit).
5. Turn on all lights and open the curtains.
6. Have each visitor sign in and show a picture ID.
7. Buddy up with an associate when holding an open house. There is safety in numbers.
8. If working the buddy system, tour the house with the visitor while your co-worker jots down the visitor's license plate number.

For Showings:

1. Know Your Client.
   1. Insist that a new prospect first meet you at your office (a safe location where your client will be seen by others in your office).
   2. Collect as much information (name, contact info, copy of driver's license, etc.) about your new prospect as you can before you decide to work with him or her. If your prospect balks at this, explain that the information will stay in your office only. Most people will understand and comply willingly.
2. Driving to Showings.
   1. Take a buddy.
   2. Drive your own car - have the client follow or meet you there.
   3. If you must take one car, insist on driving (so you have more control over where you go).
   4. Park at the curb - don't get blocked in at the driveway.
3. Upon Arriving to a Showing.
   1. Call your office. Let them know you have arrived, your location, and who you are with.
4. During the Showing.
   1. Let the client lead the way. You follow (to avoid attacks from behind or small valuables from being stolen when your back is turned).
   2. It's OK to let the client inspect the basement or attic, but you avoid going into these confined spaces.
5. Be Prepared.
   1. Have an "escape excuse" if you start to feel uneasy (i.e. "excuse me, I need to call my office" - this gives you a chance to get out of the house).
   2. Keep in regular contact with your office.
   3. Have a code word (i.e. spectacular) or phrase (i.e. it's in the file, next to Terry's desk) to alert your office of trouble.

Other Safety Tips:

1. Avoid using glamorous photos of yourself.
2. Dress for safety.
3. Be careful about the information you disclose about yourself.
4. Take a self-defense course.
5. Follow your instincts. Don't hesitate to call the police if you feel uneasy for any reason.
6. Have "911" on speed-dial.

For more ideas on staying safe, be sure to see NAR's 56 Safety Tips for REALTORS^®.