By Tim Keck
“Matt Laubhan saved my life.”
According to Tupelo, Mississippi resident Chad Mims, that’s what everybody was saying after the 2014 tornado that destroyed 2000 homes but killed only one person (ClarionLedger.com). As WTVA’s chief meteorologist, Laubhan sounded the alarm long and loud, trying to convince people to take shelter, that the danger was real. He aired pictures of his baby girl making emergency plans. But it was his live, on-air evacuation of the weather studio that everyone still talks about. With the words “Basement, now!” Laubhan ordered the crew downstairs as the twister closed in. That move likely convinced any remaining doubters to take shelter.
As to his role in saving potentially hundreds of lives, Laubhan says he’s humbled by the praise. But he credits his training and reliance on God for guiding him that day.
Maybe Matt Laubhan has something to teach us as well. Because whether we are talking about tornados, heart attacks, or targeted violence, early warning systems save lives.
An early warning system (EWS) is anything that gives you advanced notice of danger, allowing time to prepare and implement plans. Our seminars, the recent history of attacks at businesses, and this very message all serve as early warnings of what might happen. But let’s get more specific about other systems you can implement.
1. Domestic Violence EWS – Domestic violence is prevalent in our society, with one in six women being victimized at some point in their lives. The tendency toward secrecy is what makes this problem so dangerous and keeps people from talking about it. TIP: Initiate a Domestic Violence program for your organization, offering support for victims and offenders. You may utilize classes and support groups, giving encouragement and confidentiality to anyone who comes forward with information about a DV situation.
2. Politics/Trends EWS – We know that some people are friendlier to your organization or industry than others. The same might be said of politicians because most of them are people. Knowing what those in power believe and are saying can be an indicator of things to come. TIP: Make this topic part of your weekly security briefing, putting plans in place to respond as things play out.
3. Threatening Communications EWS – Organizations sometimes receive emails, letters, and packages that give cause for concern. Threats may be direct (“Someone is going to die”), indirect (“You’re going to pay”) or incoherent (“Ezekiel will appear with subjugation”), or some combination of the three. TIP: Assign one person to categorize and monitor all such communication, contacting an expert for analysis and recommendations.
4. Internal Threat EWS – Part of the problem with workplace violence is that it can come at you from many directions. Your folks may face danger from an angry homeless person, an armed robber, or the person sitting in the next cubicle. TIP: Get training for HR, Safety/Security, and, ultimately, all employees in the Warning Signs of Violence. This is the key to prevention.
5. In-House Expertise EWS – For companies or individuals committed to keeping people safe from violence, there is no substitute for designating a staff member to be responsible for watching for signs and accurately assessing the danger level. In response to that need, we developed the nation’s first Certified Threat Analyst program. TIP: Enroll in our CTA course and learn how to recognize and prevent violent acts from verified experts. This 16-hour course is taught live via webinar, running two hours per session. You can also earn HRCI and SHRM continuing education credits.
We’ve given you five to consider for now, but at SafeHaven Security Group, we promote several effective early warning systems that allow you to recognize and prevent acts of violence.
Because, as Matt Laubhan might say, “There’s a storm coming.”
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Contact SafeHaven Security Group, LLC today so we can empower you with practical steps to keep yourself and your people safe. Learn more by emailing [email protected] or call 844-SAFE GROUP.