AlI've commented in previous blogs about safety tips for women in this business.  However, the Jaycee Dugard story has been blowing my mind lately.  In case you missed this...Jaycee Dugard was found after being kidnapped in 1991!  I'm sure the joy in that reunion was palpable!

The idea that someone could be taken and "hidden away" for years scares me.  What type of person could actually hold another hostage?!  I pray I never find out.   made me reconsider how I teach my daughter safety techniques, how I live in my home and how I conduct my business.

Please keep your children and loved ones close and also take the time to teach them some basic safety.  Don't make the assumption that where you live is safe or "it won't ever happen to a person like you..."  Raleigh, NC is a wonderful area to live but it's also a hustle and bustle city that continues to grow.  Raleigh is also the halfway point between the North East and Florida.  We do have a ton of traffic coming though the Triangle area.

Please, be smart and keep the following tips in mind...

• Teach yourself and your loved ones to yell, kick, scream FIRE and make as large of a scene if they are ever attacked or in danger. 

• Don't jump into the car to show a home if that buyer isn't willing to jump through a few hoops for you...ask for name, contact information and ask them to call your lender for a quick pre-qualfication.  If they are serious about buying, they'll invest some time.

• Keep a safe word with a buddy or your office front desk.  If you need to call someone, they will know you're in trouble without you being panicked

• Let a client walk into the home first and into each room first.  Don't let someone corner you or catch you off guard.

• Finally, if your gut tells you something is fishy...it usually means it STINKS!  Go with your instinicts.  It will save you time, effort and possibly your life.

Keep your home safe too.  Check windows, doors and any easy entry points.  If you have large shrubs near your doors, you may want to cut them back.  I know I'm often coming home in the dark.  I am ALWAYS aware that someone could be waiting for me when I'm not expecting it.

I'm off my soapbox for the day.  Be safe, love each other and have a great day!